Page 30 of Hook Up

“What’s the point of stopping, otherwise?” Stealing another kiss, I jump out of the limo, determined to buy the biggest bouquet in the place and get this woman the hell back to my suite.

I have a bevy of romantic plans for the two of us, but at the moment, pent-up sexual energy wins.

Five minutes later, I stroll back to the limo, carrying a tremendous bouquet of lilies and irises. The florist mentioned roses as an option, but I get the distinct impression Greer isn’t one for typical sentiments.

Judging by the smile crossing her face when I hand over the flowers, I guessed correctly.

“Ryder, they’re beautiful. This is the biggest bouquet I’ve ever seen in my life.” She struggles to hold it against her petite form, and I chuckle, realizing it only took me twenty years to buy her flowers. Better late than never, I suppose.

“Told you dating me wasn’t all bad.”

I expect a flashy grin as she settles onto my lap to thank me properly. Instead, a frown mars her brow. Uh oh, the gears are turning again.

“What’s on your mind, Gigi?”

“Is this some ploy to get me into bed? Checkbox on your to-do list? Sleep with Greer—check. Move on to the next woman?” The frown deepens as she sets the flowers aside. “I’m sure it works with every woman you meet, but—”

Okay, enough of that noise. Seizing her mouth, I silence any further arguments. I’m not dismissing her fears. They’re legitimate. But what she can’t seem to wrap her head around is that she’s not just any woman.

She’s the one I’ve waited for my entire life.

I’m not entirely certain how to prove that fact to her, although I have reached a decision about this evening.

Even if my dick goes on strike.

I’m not sleeping with Greer. Not tonight. She thinks she’s another conquest in a long line of women, and although I know I can lure her into the mood, I’d rather she was secure in her place in my life.

Of all the women I’ve known, she deserves that level of adoration.

Pulling back, she runs her tongue along that pouty lower lip, gazing at me through lowered lashes. “That’s hardly an answer, Ryder.”

My fingers drift along her cheek, drinking in the beauty that I’ve admired for years. It’s uncanny, but she’s more beautiful with every year that passes. She’s also more jaded and emotionally distant.

I’ve got my work cut out for me.

“How about I make a call and get us some tickets for a show? It is Vegas, after all. Or I can rent a boat on Lake Mead and get us away from the Strip. Better yet, I can set up desert camping, and we can really take in nature.”

Her eyes widen with each idea, a small smile crossing her lips. “You still haven’t answered my question.”

Cupping her face with both hands, I force her to hold my gaze, praying she sees the truth in their depths. “Do I want you? Absolutely. I’ve wanted you for as long as I can remember. But you only get one first time with the woman you’ve always dreamt about, so I’m not screwing it up.”

“You’re not trying to sleep with me?”

“Haven’t you figured it out? I’m trying to make you fall madly in love with me.” There it is, right out in the open.

Sitting up, she presses a hard kiss to my mouth, but she can’t hold back the smile. This time, I know her happiness is genuine. “Keep saying things like that and it won’t be difficult.”

My heart jumps at her words, but I force levity. “See? I told you dating me wouldn’t be such a bad thing.”

When the limo pulls up to the entrance of the hotel, I beat Mike to the punch, helping Greer from the car and pressing a kiss to her palm. Then I send Mike back to the restaurant to fetch the rest of the crew.

Me? I’ve got my own plans—ensuring Greerdoesfall in love with me.

Greer’s gaze flits around, taking in the luxurious surroundings. “This is quite a step up from the original location. Greg told me you footed the bill.”

“He’s been a loyal friend for years. He deserves it and you only get married… well, I’m not going there.” We exchange a grin as we stroll through the lobby, Greer barely able to hang onto her flowers.

“Mr. Gray,” the concierge calls out, waving in my direction. “I have several messages for you. I apologize, but she insisted I hand-deliver them. She wasremarkablyinsistent.” His lips purse in a frown and I know immediately who’s been calling.

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