Page 44 of Donovan Blake: Adrenalin

“Yeah, there was a lot to talk about.”

“I assume it was Sam.”

“Yep, and you’re going to the party as a cascading chandelier.”

“A cascading chandelier?” she repeated, then started laughing. “How can I possibly be a chandelier?”

“You will be absolutely brilliant, no pun intended,” he said with a chuckle.

“I’ll be positively dazzling,” she exclaimed, then giggling, she added, “I’ll light up the place when I walk in.”

“We could go down this path forever, but I need a shower. I’ve ordered breakfast and I’ll fill you in on the details while we eat.”

As he walked away she wanted to follow him and stand wrapped in his arms under the hot water, but resisting the temptation, she ambled into the living room and stared out the window. It was a glorious day. The sun was shining and puffy clouds floated across the sky. The cottage had a private back patio, and she was about to step outside when she heard the telltale knock. Breakfast had arrived. Walking quickly through the living area, she opened the door.

“Good morning,” the waiter said with a smile as he pushed in the trolley. “Would you like me to set up the dining table?”

“Yes, please.”

“Excellent, I’m starving,” Donovan exclaimed as he strode into the room. “I hope there’s plenty of coffee.”

“Yes, sir, and there’s more cream in the minibar if you need it.”

Donovan had combed his wet hair back from his forehead, and staring up at his handsome face, Phoebe felt a swell of emotion.

Like a bolt of lightning, it hit her.

For the first time in her life she knew what it meant to fall helplessly, madly, and passionately in love.

* * *

The waiter had left, and Donovan was lifting the lids off the plates when he realized Phoebe was standing across the room staring at him.

“Are you going to join me?” he asked jokingly, but seeing her serious expression his grin quickly faded. “What’s wrong?”

“Nothing,” she replied as she started moving towards him. “Why do you think there’s something wrong?”

“You look like a deer in headlights, that’s why. Are you worried about tonight? If you’re getting cold feet—”

“No, I’m not—not at all,” she said hastily, interrupting him. “I’m really looking forward to it.”

“So…what’s bothering you?”

“I should call my mother and let her know I’m here.”

“Then call her.”

“I’ll eat first. I’m hungry and I don’t want the hot food getting cold.”

Though he knew there was something else on her mind he decided not to push, but as she was about to sit down he felt an unfamiliar pang in his chest. Quickly stepping to her side he brought her into his arms.

“I’ve got your back,” he murmured, holding her tightly. “If there’s anything you need, anything you want to talk about…I’m here for you. And Phoebe, I mean anything.”

“Why?”

“Why, what?”

“Why did you say that? Why are you here for me? Why anything I need?”

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