Page 59 of Hook Up

“I got married. I didn’t murder anyone. Relax. Have a cocktail. I need to call Gigi because it’s only a matter of time before the press gets hold of her name.”

Strolling out of the kitchen, I glance over my shoulder, laughing when I see my lawyer grab the bottle of gin. Hey, it’s five o’clock somewhere.

Greer picks up on the first ring, her voice hushed. “I swear I didn’t say anything. Are you okay? Are you freaking out?”

“I’m fine.” Actually, I’m thrilled the truth is out. The look of disappointment on Greer’s face when she discovered I wasn’t wearing my ring haunted me the entire night.

“Are you lying?” I hate the hesitation in her voice, the uncertainty.

“No. My only concern is your safety and the media bothering you. Has anyone said anything?”

“Not at all, except for one of my coworkers, who claims to be insanely jealous of whoever your wife is because you are, as she puts it, the hottest man in the world of racing.”

I chuckle into the phone. “She’s not lying.”

“Your ego is intact, thank God. Had me worried for a minute. How long until they figure out my name?”

“Depends, but not long. A couple of days at the most.”

“What should I tell the media, if someone corners me?”

“Tell them you’re married to the hottest man in the world of racing.”

“How about no comment?”

“I like the first option better.”

“You would,” Greer chuckles. “Let me run. I have some paperwork to finish before I squirrel myself away in my apartment.”

“I love you, Mrs. Gray. I can’t wait for you to be back here. Hey, before you go, what day are you flying in? I’ll book your flight. The race is Sunday, but I’d love for you to be here Saturday.”

Silence. Never a good thing.

“Gigi? When are you coming home?”

“I don’t know if I’ll make the race, Ryder.” She shushes me when I groan into the phone. “Trust me, I’m trying but I’m overloaded with work.”

“You quit. As of Friday you’re done.”

“I feel bad for the patients. They’re having a hard time with my resignation.”

With an aggravated grunt, I stroll onto the patio, coffee in hand. “Well,I’mhaving a hard time with your absence, and I’m your husband. I win.”

“I promise this is the last race I’ll miss.”

“I want you at this race.” Am I being difficult? Yes, but I’m desperate for her to be in my arms again. Besides, the media will no doubt be looking for her at the race, wondering why my new wife is noticeably absent.

“How about I make it up to you with daily blowjobs for the rest of the circuit?”

Holy fuck, that got my attention. “I’m listening.”

“Will you forgive me for missing the race?”

“You’ll be here by Monday?” Glancing up, I see Greg hovering at the far end of the patio, a stern expression coloring his face. Guess someone else read the tabloids.

“Promise.”

“This is your one and only get out of jail free card. Call me later and be safe. Anyone bothers you, let me know and I’ll hire security.”

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