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We haven’t spoken much since the divorce. I can hear something new in his voice—a mix of concern and frustration.
“Ezra, I’ve been thinking about the military project, and I’m in. Normally, I wouldn’t involve my company with the projects of my children, but you are a safe bet. Ivan was constantly in the gossip columns causing nothing but embarrassment for the family.”
“You won’t regret it. The deal is going to add more money to NexTech and everyone involved.”
“Let’s hope so,” he says gruffly. “The main reason for my call is your mother and I would like to have you over for dinner this weekend.”
I’m taken aback. “Oh, okay. Sure.”
“How is Paige doing? Dane says that your nanny quit.”
“Yes, but I have a new one, now. Her name is Quinn, and Paige loves her.”
I can almost hear my father shaking his head. “Ezra,” he sighs, “you need to be careful with the help. It will only lead to complications.”
“What do you mean?”
“You know exactly what I mean. I hear it in your voice.” His tone is grave. “You need to think about getting married again, but make sure it’s to someone on your level.”
My hands grip the steering wheel tightly. I’m not going to get into this with my father right now.
“Okay, Dad,” I reply tersely. “I’ll be there for dinner.”
“Good,” he says. I can hear the relief in his voice.
The call ends, and I take a deep breath. I’m unsure what to make of this dinner invitation, but I know one thing for sure—my father’s intentions are never simple.
After playing with Paige for forty-five minutes, I get her ready for bed and tuck her in. Once the bedtime story is read and she falls asleep, I head downstairs to the living room.
I steal glances at Quinn as she sits on the couch, reading Jane Austen’sPride and Prejudice. She’s completely engrossed in the world of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy, her honey-colored eyes flickering across the pages with rapt attention.
She’s wearing soft cotton pajama pants adorned with a floral pattern and a matching long-sleeve top that drapes over her curves with effortless grace. Her hair is pulled back in a messy bun, a few loose strands framing her face, giving her an air of relaxed beauty. Her lips are slightly parted, and I wonder what it would be like to lean in and capture them with my own.
Even in a simple pajama set Quinn is sexy as hell. Does she know that every move she makes drives me crazy with desire? My pulse quickens, and a rush of heat heads straight to my cock.
She looks up, sensing my presence.
“Hey, Ezra,” she greets, placing a bookmark between the pages and setting the book aside. She adjusts her clothing slightly as if to remind me that she is not mine to touch.
I try to regain control over my emotions. I need to maintain a professional relationship with her, for Paige’s sake and mine.
“Hey,” I reply, my voice huskier than usual. “Having a good read?”
She smiles. “I never thought I’d say this, but yes. This book is… interesting. I’ve never been into the classics, but I’m glad I tried this one.”
“Yeah, I had to read them in school. I was never a big fan.”
“How was your meeting?”
“It was good,” I reply, trying to keep my voice casual. “We discussed some business ideas and caught up on family stuff.”
Quinn raises an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. “Family stuff?”
“The meeting was with my brothers.” I hesitate for a moment before deciding to extend the invitation. “My brother Dane and his fiancé Katrina are having an engagement party, and he wanted me to invite you. I-I mean... I want you to come as well. It’s a kid-friendly event, and I want to bring Paige. It will be easier for her if she has you because she gets shy around a lot of new people.”
Her expression falters, and I can see the hesitation in her eyes. “Is this a request or…”
I hold up my hands. “It’s a request.”
