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Clearing her throat while opening her car door, she blatantly says, “I’m not a giver, Noah. I like to receive. I’m selfish that way. Remember that for future reference.”
Leaving me standing like a fool as the engine revs, I stare in disbelief as her words echo in my ear, watching her car drive away while I stand in the middle of the parking lot in sheer and utter confusion.
***
I’m not up for drinks with the work crew and instead settle for a tea party with the girls. The complete opposite of what I’d typically do back home. I’m beginning to grow fond of my nieces, despite my initial distaste for children.
Amelia decides we need to bring out the fancier china since I’m the honored guest.
“Uncle Noah,” she says in a weird, overdone British accent. “Would you like some more tea?”
“Yes, please,” I say, drinking the air with my pinkie raised.
“I’d prefer to be addressed as Your Highness.”
Lex is sitting across from me, covering his mouth with the little cup. Charlie hides her smile as well. At the same time, Ava announces the food is served.
“So, what are we eating today?” I ask, staring at the blank plate.
“We’re eating a delicious sponge cake and caviar.”
“Together?” I cringe.
“Yes, Sir Mason. We here at the Edwards’ mansion enjoying only fine dining,” Amelia states confidently.
We all pretend to eat our sponge cake and caviar until Ava loses interest and walks to the other side of the playroom to amuse herself with some puzzles.
“Miss Ava is a horrid guest,” Amelia raises her voice.
“I’ve eaten all my food,” I announce, at the same time Charlie and Lex follow.
“I can see,” Amelia announces. “Oh, would you look at the time?” She looks at her wrist, vacant with no watch. “I believe Miss Ava and I have an appointment to attend.”
“Would that appointment happen to be Alvin and the Chipmunks on TV?” Charlie questions them.
They both nod before disappearing into the living room. The three of us relax, finally indulging in adult conversation.
“So, tell me what happened. Did you get the info you needed?” Charlie is quick to jump to the subject of Morgan again.
“Not really. She’s supposed to text me with details on meeting Scarlett tomorrow.”
“Noah, what’s going on? She’s Scarlett’s assistant, right? There’s a contractual agreement in place to complete this book. I don’t understand why she’s delaying this.”
Neither do I. I hate this uncertainty, and not only does it drive me insane, it questions my professionalism. I don’t want Lex and Haden thinking I can’t complete this project within the timeline given. But I hate to admit that emotions are running high—unfamiliar emotions.
“Charlie, I honestly don’t know. I can’t explain it. Morgan is… there’s something, and I don’t know. I’m trying to get to the bottom of this.”
Lex shakes his head and comments, “Here it is in black and white. She’s obviously attracted to you but is holding back because she’s either in a relationship or she values her career too much. It has nothing to do with your professionalism. You’re great at your job. Haden only has positive things to say about you. Don’t let this cloud your vision and aspirations.”
“Since when did you become Dr. Phil?” Charlie chuckles.
“Since I’m forced to listen to you and Kate ramble on and on about relationships. That, and you force me to watch Sex and the City in bed almost every night, and because this happens to me all the time,” he says plainly.
Charlie reacts, “I hate to admit it, but it’s true. The problem with you, my dear husband, is that you’re extremely handsome and carry that dominant CEO persona. You’re like the ultimate book boyfriend.”
“Oh no, here we go with the book boyfriends,” Lex com
plains.
