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“Too bad Ally and I weren’t able to visit in the summer. If you had told us about your accident, we would’ve been on the next flight out.”
“I know. But I didn’t want you girls to come all the way out there just to stare at me in a hospital bed. I wanted to get the surgery over with so I could recover and come home.”
“You’re lucky we’ve forgiven you for that.” Jade peered up at me, offering a sympathetic smile. “Seriously, Aria, we’re your best friends. No matter what situation or crisis you’re in, we deserve to know. I’m just so happy you survived and are here with us.”
“Me, too.”
“But… back to the subject of ‘Mister Hot-and-Available’… Tell me what I need to know. What are his pet peeves?”
“He hates traffic.”
“Who doesn’t?” Jade snickered.
“He loves a woman who takes care of her appearance, but is also not afraid to walk around in sweatpants with no makeup on.”
“Okay, that’s definitely me. Go on…”
“He’s been in one serious relationship. He never went into detail, but the ‘fatal ex’ broke his heart.”
“Poor baby.” Jade frowned. “Who would want to hurt that man? He’s gorgeous, talented, financially stable, hasmadsex appeal… need I say more?” She giggled. “I just love his mysterious brown eyes. His ink and piercings—megaturn on. He’s got the entire package!”
Jade was right. Evan was great boyfriend material—except he wasn’t a boy. He was a man.
Man-friend? I wonder if we would’ve dated had I never met Noah.
“I’m so nervous about this date! What if we don’t hit it off?”
“Well, from my own observations, you both have chemistry. I’m sure the date will go just fine. You’ll come home with a huge smile on your face, and you’ll tell me all about it while you glow and reminisce.”
“Do you think he was waiting for me to turn eighteen before he asked me out? I mean, my birthday was two weeks ago.”
“I’m not sure.”
I honestly didn’t know. The age of consent in New York was seventeen. So even if Evan had asked her out sooner, he wouldn’t have been breaking any laws.
“I just need to relax and not psych myself out. He’s a regular guy… who just looks like a hot model.” Jade groaned and slumped down next to me. “I really hope he’ll like me. Not like a friend, butlikeme, you know?”
“He already does. Just be yourself. You should never cut up your puzzle piece to fit with someone else’s; that’s like mutilating your identity and becoming someone you’re not. You’re outgoing, smart, funny, and beautiful. Jade, you have so many outstanding qualities. Any guy should feel lucky to date you or even have you as arm candy.”
“You’re seriously the best!” She hugged me. “I’m so glad you’re back in New York again, Aria.”
“Me too.”
“Please don’t move away.”
“I don’t plan on it.”
CHAPTER FORTY-SEVEN
Anything For Her
Evan was dressed sharply that night as he walked through Diamond Collar Gentleman’s Lounge with two middle-aged men who were notable fashion magazine editors. After meeting up for a formal business dinner, they were more than impressed with Evan’s portfolio. He had entertained the gentleman, hoping to get hired as their photographer for their next big cover. Fortunately for Evan, the club owner was a close friend of his and had promised to offer his guests full VIP treatment.
The establishment was dark and hazy, which only added to the seductive atmosphere. A T-shaped platform served as the main stage, with patrons seated around, throwing cash at the strippers as they worked the poles.
The club owner, Antonio Ramirez, emerged from a door and walked toward Evan to escort his entourage upstairs. Inside his office, he offered them drinks before he passed an iPad around and asked them to pick out their favorite dancer for a private show. Afterwards, Antonio made a phone call and asked one of his bouncers to bring the women to his office.
Once the strippers arrived, all eyes were on them, as if they were a piece of prime rib at a buffet. They lined up next to their boss and waited for detailed instructions.
