Page 48 of Magnetic God

“I just don’t see how it’s possible.”

“It’s possible because the career that you so foolishly said I should give up makes me that much money.” I snort. “I’m one of the most sought-after wedding planners in the country. I’ve worked with A-list celebrities, royalty, politicians, and people with more money than they have good sense.”

Dave holds up his hands. “I get it. Jeez.”

Brooks steps in. “Easy. I didn’t mean to start anything between the two of you.”

Sure he didn’t. I’m about to make an excuse to go to the bathroom when Dave stands.

“Excuse me.”

He leaves and Brooks smiles at me across the table, leaning back in his seat.

“Guessing the two of you haven’t gotten around to talking about finances yet.” He takes a sip of his whisky. “And the fucker doesn’t know you’re allergic to shellfish, either.”

I lift a shoulder in a shrug. “None of that matters.”

“Oh? I’m all ears, Angel. Tell me what matters.”

“He’s not married, Brooks. That’s what matters.”

He has the decency to look ashamed. Hot tears fill my eyes and I blink them away before they fall. Dave comes back at that moment, taking his seat next to me. God. This is miserable. Why did I agree to come? I could be at home, in bed. Because god knows I’m not going home with Dave. Not after tonight. This is my sign from the universe to end things with him.

I’m listening universe. Sign taken.

A server comes to take our order, breaking the tension.

Dave orders first. “I’ll take the South African lobster.”

Brooks is next. “The ribeye, please.”

I smile at the server. “Can I have the wedge salad, please?”

“Of course, ma’am.”

Dave snorts when the server leaves. “Who goes to Martin’s and orders a salad?”

Someone who is afraid to eat anything here because of the amount of shellfish served at the establishment, that’s who.

Dave isn’t finished and adds, “Or is this some kind of diet thing?”

Brooks meets my gaze, and I know he’s furious at Dave’s comment. Hell, I’m pretty pissed, too.

I say to Dave, “I just wanted salad. Drop it.”

He holds up his hands. “Alright. No need to get pissy with me.”

For the love of god. I’m two seconds away from getting up and leaving.

Dave doesn’t notice and asks Brooks, “So, are you still wrestling with OWF?”

Brooks answers, and the two make idle conversation until our food is served. As soon as Dave’s food is set down, my skin begins to itch. He doesn’t seem to notice and continues to talk to Brooks as he takes his first bite.

Reaching for my purse, I look for a Benadryl. My bigger bag has my epi pen in it, but I brought my smaller bag since I planned on going home with Dave. Now I’m cursing myself. Sometimes I can take the antihistamine and still be around shellfish. I wish I would have thought of it sooner, because it might not kick in until this meal is over.

But I don’t find any Benadryl in my bag.

Panic courses through me.

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