Page 25 of Petals and Fangs

“Well, when we were alone, he handed me this file that I am supposed to read to get to know the company's policies and everything. As he was leaving, I was about to rearrange the rest of the files and place them in the drawer that he left widely open, by the way."

“And?” Arial nods, seeming very invested.

“He snapped at me and told me to never touch his stuff again,” I say.

“Ouch,” Arial whispers.

“Yes. Ouch.”

“Well, maybe he has his reasons. You don't have to assume anything. You said you touched his stuff, right?”

“I was just rearranging them, but why was he so rude to me?”

“Who knows, Lily? Who knows? Maybe the guy is just secretive.”

“Maybe.”

“Now, stop worrying about that.”

“I am not worried about anything. But it is the fact that he trusted me and confided in me which made me feel like I could get to know him a little. The change in energy just gave me mixed signals.”

“I agree. But maybe he is not used to being around people. He could be introverted.”

“A billionaire introvert? Come on, Arial.”

“Okay, okay. I get it. Bad guess. How was the drive home, though?”

“I don't know. I avoided his small talk. He didn't even apologize. He dropped me off and said 'Have a nice evening' and then left.”

“Oh.”

“Exactly,” I nod, agreeing.

“Well, this is even more reason not to worry about anything. And remember, if it doesn't work out, there are other rich and eligible men in New York, honey. Don't forget that.”

“Arial, this is not about making Ethan Rothschild fall in love with me. His behavior is just odd.”

“Alright. Just try not to overthink and focus on the opportunity you have there.”

“I know, I know.”

“Are you going to finish your drink?” she asks.

“I have a better idea,” I say as I look at my wine glass, and then the bottle of liquor on my kitchen counter.

“What’s that look for, Lily?” Arial asks.

“I must tell you something first. Promise me you won’t tell anyone?” I tell her, grabbing her arm.

Chapter 6

Ethan

Iput my phone down and take a sip of my Scotch. I have just been informed of some trouble occurring at my nightclub. This day can't get any worse.

Not only that, I ruined any potential relationship with the most intriguing woman I have met in years, but my club is about to face trouble.

“Do you think it is one of the rebels?” Nick asks, leaning forward.

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