Page 34 of David's Proposal

I try not to think about Elizabeth, resuming my conversation with James.

“Their lawyers are talking to our lawyers, and as soon as we give it a go, we can make the acquisition,” I say, no longer distracted.

We talk business for a good half an hour before our conversation draws to an end.

“Have you had dinner?” he asks, checking his watch and pushing his chair back.

“No. I’ll order in.”

“Or you can join me,” he says, picking up his jacket and shrugging it on.

“Aren’t you going home?”

“The girls are out. It’s the girls' night out,” he says in response to my questioning look, a soft smile and a wink accompanying his words.

My ears suddenly perk up, my focus sharpening.

“Who’sthe girls?” I ask, hoping that Elizabeth is with them.

“Rain, Eve, and Dahlia.”

“Uh-huh. What about Thea and her… Didn’t Ed’s fiancé have a cousin? I think I met her last Sunday.”

His eyes stall on mine for a second, and I do my best not to flinch or give myself away. It’s hard with him. His intuition is sharper than a blade.

We’ve been at this game for some time, and we’ve crossed paths more than once when it comes to women.

One time in a big way.

Rain.

But James is a connoisseur.

He knows women like the back of his hand. And also men who are mesmerized with them.

“Thea is home, trying to get some rest before all the events this week. And her cousin? I have no idea. I only saw that girl a few times. I know nothing about her. Would you like to get to know her better?” he tosses at me without the slightest emotion on his face.

He’s not judging or being gripped by some morbid curiosity.

More like…

‘Just say something, and I’ll make it happen.'

Yeah, no.

I wouldn’t go the official route.

Me, dating right now?

Hell fucking no.

It’s like asking me to join a golf tournament when I know nothing about golf.

Besides, I’m not the only one against the idea.

Elizabeth herself had said it. It wouldn’t work for her, and the girl made so much sense.

Dating while having their eyes on us?

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