Total pages in book: 29
Estimated words: 29567 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 148(@200wpm)___ 118(@250wpm)___ 99(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 29567 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 148(@200wpm)___ 118(@250wpm)___ 99(@300wpm)
This time I’m seeing it like a patron.
All white-clothed tables and elegant candle centerpieces.
The server ushers us into a private booth near the back; I order a wine. He orders a whiskey.
“I would like you to come back and work for me,” he says. “Without any assistant duties.”
“I doubt that would work…”
“You don’t have to work on the same floor,” he says. “But our marketing team could use you, and I’d raise your salary again.”
“Mr. Sutton—”
“Dominic.” He corrects me. “We’re not going backwards. Just think about that offer for a few nights and get back to me.”
“Okay.” I nod. “I will.”
We stare at each other in silence until the server returns with menus.
Neither of us opens them.
“It should be illegal for them to charge what they do for pasta,” I say. “It’s just noodles and dressing.”
“Prepared by a world-class chef.” He smiles, sipping his drink. “It makes a difference…”
“I’m back with Nolan now,” I say. “We’re on good terms again.”
“Let’s discuss a potential relationship between us,” he says. “I would like to explore that.”
“Did you not hear what I just said about being with Nolan again?”
“I did, but since we both know you’re too smart to ever go back to him, I’m not taking the bait... I’ve never had an exclusive girlfriend, but I’d like you to be mine if you’ll give me the chance.”
I study him. My fingers curl around the wine glass.
This man—who wrecked my plans, upended my routine, and made me feel everything I told myself I didn’t want—looks like he means it.
“You really think this can work?”
“I think we can work better than you think.”
I lean in, slowly. “And what exactly do you think we are, Dominic?”
He doesn't blink. “Not temporary.”
I swallow. “I need more than just late nights and sex in locked offices.”
“I know,” he says. “You need someone who listens. Someone who doesn’t make you feel disposable. Someone who lets you have your own voice—and doesn’t punish you for using it.”
“You’ll still be demanding,” I say. “Still bossy. Still act like the world spins just for you.”
“You’ll still drive me insane and argue with me for no reason.”
I cross my arms. “So what makes you think I won’t be tempted to walk away again?”
He leans forward. “Because I won’t let you forget what it feels like to stay.”
I say nothing.
That one hits deeper than I want it to.
He doesn’t push. He just waits.
I tap the edge of my wine glass. “If this implodes, and you make a fool out of me—”
“I won’t.”
“But if you do…”
He reaches for my hand. “Can you please just give me a fucking chance? I really like you—I liked you from day one, and I miss you… I would also prefer if you held off on arguing with me for a few hours so we can pick up where we should’ve left off before you left my boardroom.”
“I don’t know,” I say, giving in, “Not sure if I want everyone knowing that I’m dating the most selfish man in Manhattan.”
“I’ve never been the slightest bit selfish with you—especially in the bedroom,” he says, standing and squeezing my hand. “And I’m about to regret you calling me that again.”
“I haven’t said yes to giving you a chance yet.”
“It’s okay.” He pulls me against him and presses a long kiss against my lips. “I know exactly how to get it out of you…”
—The End—