Page 42 of Enchanting the CEO

"Good morning," he said with a half smile.

"How come you’re up so early?" My voice was high-pitched, but I hoped he'd let it slide. I mean, he had to expect this reaction, right? He was so damn sexy, I was surprised I could even remember how to talk.

"I always wake up at seven during the week, so I can't turn it off on weekends."

"It's been a long week, huh?"

"Yeah.”

“I almost forgot I had a neighbor.”

“Nope, still here, not going anywhere. By the way, I meant to talk to you about something, but I never got the chance because I was barely home. My brothers are stopping by today."

"Are you having a housewarming party? Should I make myself scarce?"

He came closer, and I folded my arms over my chest so I wasn't accidentally tempted to reach out for... oh, I don't know. I was sure I could find an excuse. Maybe I’d lose my balance again.

"They're just coming to hang around. And you don't have to make yourself scarce. In fact, you're invited. I'd like for you to meet them. They’ll show up here often, and it's best if you know them."

"Oh, okay," I said. "So when is that exactly?"

"They're coming in about two hours. I was just going to shower and check how the construction is going at the house. I haven't been there in a week." After a beat, he added, “Want to come with me and see it?”

I bit the inside of my cheek, hesitating for a split second.

Oh, what the hell? The best way for things to return to normal was for me to act normal. Besides, I was curious.

“I’d love to.”

***

Gabe

Fifteen minutes later, we left the house.

“So, how's the bar been?”

“Nightmare. But we found a good replacement. How was your week?”

“I’ve booked a few more tutoring clients, so that’s going well.”

Diane was avoiding my gaze, yet she clearly wanted to spend time with me. The feeling was entirely mutual.

When we arrived at the house, Mateo, the construction site manager, waved at me.

"Wow, this place is huge. Amazing," she gushed.

"Let me check with Mateo to see if it's safe to go inside."

"Perfect, because I’d love, love, love a tour." She glanced around with a warm andcurious smile. I didn't detect one ounce of envy in her eyes.

I left her to her perusal and went over to Mateo. "How are things going?"

"Oh, good, good. We've made a lot of progress."

"Can I go inside?"

He nodded at Diane. "Want to show this to the missus?"

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