Page 54 of Enchanting the CEO

The sheets weren’t just soft, they were luxurious. Maybe silk or Egyptian cotton or something. I tried to replay the morning in my mind. I remembered spying on him while he dressed. His scent lingered all around.

I got out of bed, dashing out of the bedroom and heading to the attic. I didn't want to use Gabe’s shower. It felt like I’d be intruding in his personal space. After all, maybe this was just a onetime thing.

Oh God, that would be so awkward.

I washed my hair quickly and then dressed, not really caring about what I was wearing. I didn’t have any tours today, but I’d scheduled four back-to-back tutoring lessons.

Going down to the kitchen, prepared to forage for food, I stilled when I saw a glass of orange juice. There was a note next to it too.

Morning! I didn’t have time to prep breakfast but figured you’d enjoy this.

I put a hand on my chest. Smiling, I leaned closer, inspecting the note. It was handwritten, with splashes of juice on it. I couldn't believe it. He had to leave on an emergency trip, yet he not only remembered that I liked orange juice but had poured a glass for me. This was so unexpected. I didn't even know what to do except, of course, thank him.

I downed the juice quickly. Today, it seemed to give me extra energy. Was it because a certain sexy man made it? I thought so.

After finishing it, I texted him.

Diane: Thank you for the juice. It really is the best way to start the morning.

I assumed Gabe was flying or something because the message wasn’t even marked as seen. Setting the phone down, I made myself some sunny-side up eggs and ate breakfast standing.

As I glanced around, my chest became a bit heavy. Crap, what did I do? Why did I fall for Gabe's charms? I was living with the man, and I currently had zero prospects for an apartment. Why did I have to go and mess things up? I had to get a grip on myself for the both of us. Otherwise, things between us could get complicated and living with him would be awkward. Not to mention, I really didn’t want to put my sister in an uncomfortable position.

I had so much energy from breakfast and my juice that I decided to use the time to work out. But since Gabe wasn't home, I didn't have to stay in the attic. I went upstairs to change into my sports bra and jogging pants, then came back down with my mat and set up in the living room.

I’d been down here so often that it felt like a common space, although it obviously wasn’t. But I was getting cabin fever in the attic.

I worked out using the barre method, which I'd discovered when I was in high school. It worked for my body. It resembled Pilates a lot, mixed with ballet moves. Typically, I needed some piece of furniture to hold on to. A stool and a table were just what I was looking for.

I was in the midst of a plié when my phone beeped. I usually ignored messages or calls when I worked out, but I saw Gabe's name on the screen. I immediately reached for it and lost my balance, crashing to the floor.

"Ow!" I’d hit my elbow and my knee. My eyes watered. Damn it! I swallowed hard, rising to my feet as I sighed, rubbing the sore spots. I checked my phone even though my eyes were still watering.

Gabe: My pleasure. Thought you'd like to start your day on a good note.

Diane: Thanks. I love surprises, and this is the best. How was your flight?

Gabe: Uneventful. There is a shit show going on down here. I guessed right. What are your plans today?

Diane: Tutoring and nothing much else.

Gabe: So you're working from home?

That was an odd question.

Diane: I am, yep. It's going to be pajama day all day. Well, right now it's workout clothes hour. But not for long. I'm going to take advantage of the fact that no one can see me. *winking emoji*

I saw the dots moving that indicated the other person was typing.

Forget going back to my workout. I was glued to my phone.

Gabe: I want a picture.

I looked down at myself. Hmmm... I didn't even choose my good workout clothes.

Chapter Fifteen

Diane

---