Page 15 of Dirty Temptation

All I knew, as I worked with the team who built my website and the designers who created my logo, was it felt like the right thing to do.

Brand Alchemy was all mine.

I grip the arms of my seat as my plane lands in Philadelphia.

Welcome to the United States of Americasomeone says behind me, and I smile.

I’m home.

Having made good time at the luggage claim and customs, I’m soon in an Uber heading toward my apartment. My flight arrived super early, so I told everyone I was happy to make my own way home.

I fire off a message to Payton.

I’m home! Get ready for the best sober bachelorette party ever.

My phone rings.

“Why are you awake?” I ask.

“Just threw up.” Payton sighs.

Gross.

“When will it stop?” I cringe.

“Any day now they tell me.” I hear her walking through the apartment. She moved in with Knox almost immediately when they got together, and I’ve made enough video calls to her to feel as if I’ve been there.

It's showy.

He is a billionaire after all.

All the furniture is expensive and the style is minimalistic. At least it was until Payton moved in. Although her focus has been the baby room and their wedding, I’ve heard him complain about the colorful cushions and throws thatdon’t match anything.

His words, not mine.

“I’m the creative, not you. They match,” Payton replied, and I snickered.

He’s been extremely protective of her and the baby, which is adorable. As her best friend, I approve. I mean, the two of them were nevernotgoing to be together in my opinion.

Now they are getting married and having a baby.

“Well, I’m sure it will be worth it when you hold your bundle of joy in your arms.” I watch the streets of Philly come to life as we drive through the city.

“Yeah, yeah.” She giggles and I hear the crunch of what I assume are water crackers.

“Come back to bed,” Knox growls in the background.

“I’m talking to Molly,” she replies. “So, what are we doing for the bachelorette party?”

I smile.

I’ve been planning it for weeks.

“It’s a surprise. Knox knows everything. Just wear your favorite dress and I’ll see you tomorrow night.”

“Knox had strippers. I want strippers.” Payton crunches some more.

“I didn’taskfor strippers!” he yells out and we both giggle.

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