Page 77 of David's Proposal

I can’t bring Vale.

First off, I didn’t tell anyone I’d bring someone with me. Let’s say that wouldn’t be a problem. But Vale is not on my payroll. Vale, Keith, or anyone else.

These are real people.

Under no circumstances would I fool someone into coming with me for that reason. To pretend they are with me.

11

LIZ

“Vale?”he says.

I love when his eyes narrow and he cocks an eyebrow at me. I’m playing with fire here. And I’m fully aware of it, but what do I have to lose?

The differences between our lives are hard to ignore and even harder to overcome.

Nothing can make us a good fit for each other.

Despite being a good fit when it comes to our wild imagination, the figments of our friendship I value more and more, and the steamy activities in the bedroom.

“Vale from…?”

He doesn’t like Vale.

“Vale from Valentin. And don’t you dare fire him.”

“Who said I’d fire him?” he mutters, and a chuckle peels off my lips.

“Seriously,” I say.

He gives me a conniving look, a smile creeping across his lips.

“Seriously,” he says.

I have to thank Vale for flirting with me tonight.

David wouldn’t be here, and we wouldn’t be having this conversation if it weren’t for him.

“He’s your new friend now, isn’t he?” he says, his hands sliding off my thighs.

He leans forward, scoops up his drink, and takes a sip, evading my eyes.

“He is someone I met at the hotel. And he knew exactly why I was there. His admiration for me was mixed with curiosity. Yes, he is attracted to me. I bet he knows a lot about what’s going on in that hotel.”

“Just another reason to move him up,” he jokes, putting his drink down. “I didn’t say I’d fire him,” he adds proactively.

“Move him up if you want to. He deserves it. But I will still call him if I need a ride,” I toss at him in a tease.

He wags his finger at me.

“You’re going to get me in a lot of trouble.”

I study his face for a little longer before I quietly say,“I think we are both in trouble.”

A longing look slides over his face while his eyes hover over my lips.

Slowly, I push upright and untie my belt.

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