Page 42 of Hook Up

Even if my heart wasn’t involved, I’d be an idiot to turn down this offer.

“It’s over a hundred grand.” That’s it. My final argument.

“Okay.” Not a look of surprise, fear, nothing. Ryder is absolutely calm and collected.

I tilt my head back and laugh. “For that sort of money, we might as well up the ante.”

Ryder presses a kiss to my neck, earning a coo of approval. “How so?”

Time to turn him onhishead. “We get married. Show the world youreallymean business.”

I expect him to run screaming in the opposite direction. Or laugh. Or sit there shell-shocked. It would be the ultimate payback.

He does none of the above.

Instead, a slow and sultry grin spreads across his face. “Good idea. In fact, since you mentioned it, it’s now a stipulation.”

“I’m joking, Ryder.”

“I’m not, Greer. We’re getting married.”

I hold out for several seconds, waiting for him to crack, but he’s determined to have the last laugh. Fine. Let him have it. It’s not like I ever planned on getting married. Might as well do it as part of a business transaction. “That is the least romantic proposal I’ve ever heard. Why am I not surprised it’s for me?” I hold out my hand. “You have a deal, Ryder Gray. Here’s to love and marriage in all of its contractual glory.”

His hand envelops mine, but instead of shaking it, he brings it to his lips, dusting kisses across my knuckles. “You haven’t given me a chance to be romantic, Gigi. Let’s get out of here. Spend some time together.”

Even though I just sold my soul to the gods of enterprise, I need a few hours to process the upheaval I’ve brought upon myself. “I think you need to enjoy your final nights of bachelorhood. I’ve been up most of the night with the bridal party, so my bed is calling me.”

“Can it call me, too?”

“No. Not until the ink is dry.” It’s a bullshit statement, but at least I get the reaction I’m hoping for when his jaw slackens.

No one says no to Ryder Gray, except Greer Hammond.

With a last smile, I press a kiss to his cheek, pay my respects to the bride and groom, and head for my room, with one thought in mind.

What the hell have I gotten myself into?

Chapter 7

Greer

“Rise and shine, beautiful.” Ryder’s lips graze my ear, and I grumble into my pillow, not fully willing to leave this comfy cocoon.

“Five more minutes.”

“You said that five minutes ago. No can do.” He rips the blanket back, and I scramble to a seated position, my eyes flying open.

“Never mess with a nurse before coffee. Hasn’t anyone ever told you that?” I snatch the sheet to cover my naked body, but judging from the smirk gracing Ryder’s features, he didn’t miss the view.

“I’ve never dated a nurse before. But, I do recall your caffeine addiction. Breakfast just arrived.”

You’re not dating a nurse now,I muse, slipping on the robe that Ryder offers and padding out to the dining area. My body is sore, but I’ll bet money I’m feeling loads better than the rest of the bridal party, who are currently passed out in my suite.

Likely with all manner of vomit decorating the floors.

Ugh.

“Thanks for letting me crash here,” I offer, sighing as I gulp down a mouthful of coffee.

---