Page 18 of The Billionaire's Proposal

She tilts her head and holds my gaze. “I know. But if you don’t want me to risk it, then why is it an option?”

My hand instinctively finds its place on her leg, as if it’s an old habit. A shiver races through her, causing goosebumps to rise along her thigh. The last time I had more than a physical response to a woman was Phoebe, and Cameron is the opposite of Phoebe in nearly every way. I barely know Cameron. I contemplate the stark differences.

Cameron, the daring, sassy, risk-taking entrepreneur to Phoebe’s cautious, sweet, and shy nature. Before falling in love with Phoebe, I, too, embraced risk-taking behavior. While that part of me still exists, it now plays out solely in the realm of business.

“I guess I never thought anyone would risk that much money. A million dollars can still change your life, leaving you stress free.”

“Have you risked anything to get where you are?” she asks as we arrive at the restaurant, and the driver opens her door. We slide out.

I lean down, whispering in her ear, “I’ve been taking risks my entire life. I may be taking one right now.”

She suppresses a smile, but I see it at the corners of her lips and the small puff of air she inhales. Beneath the sarcasm is a thoughtful, sexy woman.

Barclay says, “I’ll be in the valet lot.”

“We won’t be long,” she says.

Barclay belly laughs. “You don’t know Wells.”

Nestled in the heart of Miami, Enzo’s exudes an aura of sophistication and glamour that draws the city’s elite and in-crowd. The exterior boasts a stylish facade with sleek, floor-to-ceiling windows that offer tantalizing glimpses of the chic interior.

“Wow, this is stunning.” Cameron’s eyes scan the room amidst the bustling of patrons entertained by the lively chatter of the trendy clientele, sipping on expertly crafted cocktails at the trendy bar or indulging in delectable dishes crafted by the acclaimed chef.

“Would you like to meet the chef?” I ask, surprised by my own question. For some inexplicable reason, I feel compelled to showcase her and for her to realize I’m not the arrogant jerk she thinks I am.

“Of course.”

The hostess waves me through, and the crowd parts as we make our way to the kitchen. We zigzag through the tables until we reach the back of house, and I see his hands waving around, shouting instructions.

“Enzo.”

“Winnie boy. One dinner wasn’t enough? You’re going to bruise my ego.”

Cameron mouths, “Winnie?” Like now, she has the goods on me.

“Enzo, this is Cameron.” Enzo’s eyes sparkle as he looks between us and then jubilantly hugs me and Cameron.

“The dinner was wonderful. The ravioli was buttery and light. How do you make the cream sauce so delicate with all the taste?” Cameron asks as she comes out of his embrace.

“My Nona would kill me if I told her secrets.”

“We’ve got to track down Wells,” I remind her, knowing he’s living it up and plans on including me in his mischievous endeavors.

Enzo, knowing my family in depth, responds with a sly smile. “Oh, you know Wells. He’s probably surrounded by a gaggle of ladies.” His hearty chuckle fills the air, making his employees’ heads turn in our direction. “Nice to meet you, young lady. It’s been too long since Winnie’s brought a woman around.”

My skin prickles on his words as Cameron gives him a closed-lipped smile. “You, too.”

“We’ll get out of your kitchen and find Wells.” I shake my head.

“Stay out of trouble.”

Together, Cameron and I navigate our way through the bustling restaurant, weaving through clusters of chattering patrons and clinking glasses until we finally spot Wells.

We find him on the patio, enclosed by lush topiaries that cast dancing shadows in the moonlight. Wells holds court with three stunning women, their laughter ringing out like crystal chimes. As we approach, the sultry beats of the music throb through the air, luring revelers to the dance floor where bodies move in a sensual rhythm, lost in the allure of the night.

“Do you want a drink?”

“No, thanks. We’ve already shared two bottles of wine.”

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