Page 2 of Forbidden Desire

I smile. My sister’s enthusiasm always lifts my spirits. “I’m sure the organizers have arranged something spectacular, as always.”

Olivia leans forward. “So, any updates on your new rival I should know about?”

I resist the urge to roll my eyes. She’s watched Zack Wolfe like a hawk ever since the news broke of his latest club opening down the block from Fitzgerald’s.

Olivia’s interest doesn’t surprise me, though. Every woman in this city seems obsessed with him.

Shaking my head, I wrinkle my nose. “Nothing worth gossiping about. I’m keeping my focus where it should be—on my venue.”

She pouts her lips. “You’re no fun. I bet he’s already plotting some crazy stunt to steal your spotlight tonight.”

I elevate my chin. “Mr. Wolfe can do as he pleases. Fitzgerald’s will continue being the pinnacle of class and sophistication, regardless of his antics.”

As if on cue, the man himself strolls into the ceremony ballroom with a small entourage trailing behind him.

The fabric of his tailored tuxedo clings perfectly to his toned and defined muscles, accentuating them with every move. His arms bulge slightly as he adjusts his cuffs, making it clear that he is no stranger to working out. He holds himself with confidence, exuding an aura of strength and command. His intense stare lands on me for a moment before sliding away.

A hot annoyance engages inside me, but I maintain my poise.

Zack Wolfe does not intimidate me, and I’d never let him get to me. I built my empire through sheer will and determination, and no reckless playboy is going to threaten that.

Game on indeed, Mr. Wolfe. We’ll see if you can deal with someone who doesn’t fall for your charms.

Tucking her chin, my sister leans toward my ear. “Speak of the devil.”

I fight against the impulse to turn and continue watching Zack’s elaborate entrance, keeping my focus on Olivia instead. “We have more important matters to discuss than Mr. Wolfe’s attention-seeking tactics.”

My sister smiles and shakes her head. “You’re allowed to admit he’s hot, you know. I won’t tell.”

As I straighten my posture, I clear my throat. “Perhaps we should go over the vendor arrangements for next month.”

Before Olivia can respond, a tall, slender host arrives at our table. “So sorry to interrupt, ladies, but we seem to have a seating issue.” He gestures behind him, guiding Zack towards us. “Mr. Wolfe, your table is right this way.”

“Ladies,” Zack greets as he slides into the empty seat beside me while flashing his infuriatingly perfect grin. “What a lovely coincidence.”

I level the host with an icy look. “There must be some mistake. Mr. Wolfe has no seat at this table.”

A visible bob goes down the host’s neck as he swallows. “Terribly sorry, Ms. Fitzgerald, but we’re at full capacity now. I’m afraid Mr. Wolfe will have to sit here.”

Zack leans back and props his elbow on the empty chair next to him, his wolfish grin wide. The black tuxedo he’s wearing fits him like a glove, highlighting his muscular frame and broad shoulders. “Don’t worry, I don’t bite.”

Clenching my jaw, I turn to fully face him for the first time tonight. “Let’s get one thing clear. Just because you muscled your way into the seat next to mine doesn’t mean I have any interest in engaging with you, Mr. Wolfe. Don’t mistake my poise for weakness.”

His eyes glint. “Duly noted.”

The game is on, indeed. And I have no intention of letting this cunning Wolfe gain the upper hand.

He flags down a waiter, orders a bottle of Dom Pérignon, and then turns back to me. “What are we celebrating?”

Dragging my manicured index finger back and forth between us, I arch an eyebrow. “Weare not celebrating anything, Mr. Wolfe.”

“Ouch. No need to be so formal, Bianca. Call me Zack.” He leans in slightly and sandalwood cologne drifts to my nostrils, causing a slight twinge of hunger in my stomach. He smiles. “I’d say this serendipitous seating mishap is as good a reason as any to pop some bubbly, wouldn’t you?”

Before I can retort, the waiter returns with an ice bucket and three champagne flutes. He pops the cork and fills our glasses.

Zack clinks his glass against mine and Olivia’s. “To new acquaintances.”

My composure slips for just a moment as irritation rolls through my brain.

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