Lily
We’re cruising down LA’s animated streets in the back of Gage’s Rolls Royce. After my unpleasant
encounter with Cadoc Cork Phallusburg, and Gage coming to my rescue like a white-hot knight in
bespoke suited armor, we schmoozed for another hour. He introduced me to a parade of industry peers
I’ve forgotten. Still, being introduced to his world was exhilarating.
“My girl.” My mind tripped over those words as my heart banged against my chest like a drum. My mind
is still tripping since he uttered them. When he pulled my body against a wall of muscles, the flutters in
my belly were so powerful, it took my breath away. The imprint of Gage’s strong hand around my waist
will haunt me with lust for days. Weeks, even.
My hero. He may be grumpy, but Dom is right, there’s a big teddy bear hidden de ep inside.
I’m being ridiculous. I’m crushing over a guy because he st epped up to the plate, literally. I chance a
glance his way, but I only catch a glimpse of his strong profile.
My chaperone-slash-bodyguard has gone back to wearing his trademark scowl. He’s determined to ignore
me, choosing to focus on whatever is happening on the other side of the window.
Sigh. I mourn the great conversationalist.
My eyes fall to the seat where his hand is resting, and I have to resist the urge to snake mine into his. To
avoid making a fool of myself, I join my hands together and place them on my lap. Taking a page from
his book, I face the window and lose myself in the scenery, pretending I’m not a little hurt.
I chance another glance his way. His throat works on a swallow, his jaw tightening. He runs a hand
through his thick brown hair, messing it up. Tension radiates off him. Every fibre in his body screams,
leave me alone.
Fine. It stings, but I have some pride. We’re strangers, and he promised me only one night. Who cares if I
come alive when I’m near him? In a matter of days, I’ll fly back to Manhattan, and we’ll go our s eparate
ways.
It’s for the best. I’m here to scout schools because that fits in with my father’s grand plan for my life. Not
to lust over a brooding man, even if he’s sexy as sin.