Page 27 of Tempting All The Way

“That dress. It’s from Chanel’s spring collection, straight off the runway. I’ve been on a wait list for it.”

I was in such a rush this morning I didn’t even look at the tag. Or at the dress really. I just know the fabric is one of the nicest things I’ve felt—apart from the sheets Xavier had on his guest bed. If I could wrap those around me and wear them all day, I would.

“Well, you can have this one if you want,” I offer.

“Please, it’d be lucky to cover my ass.” Lucy laughs.

She’s probably right. She’s a lot taller than I am. “Well, when you speak to him, also ask him where he got the sheets on his guest bed from. I want a set.”

“That would be Mum’s doing. You really think Xav buys his own linens?”

“Yeah, you’re probably right.” I shrug.

I’m tossing and turning. Thankfully Lucy didn’t hesitate to let me spend the night here. I really hope my apartment is ready tomorrow. I hate having to rely on other people.

My phone vibrates on the bedside table. I look at the time. It’s eleven o’clock. Who the hell is messaging me at eleven o’clock?

The devil boss:

So, how does this enemies with benefits thing work? Because I could really use some benefits right now, Shardonnay.

Well, shit, what the hell do I say to that? I won’t admit it to him, but I kind of love that he uses my whole name. Even in text, he doesn’t shorten it. It’s like a name that’s special for only his use, considering everyone else calls me Shar.

Me:

I’m not sure. Maybe there should be rules, since you love them so much.

My lips tip up at the little jab.

The devil boss:

You’re right. The first rule should be that you’re never allowed to wear panties. I want unrestricted access to that pussy at all times.

Me:

I object. Counter offer: I never wear panties when I’m at home or in your house.

The devil boss:

Sustained.

The devil boss:

But, really, where the fuck are you? I’ll come pick you up.

He can’t be serious right now. He’s Xavier Christianson. He can snap his fingers and have a hundred chicks ready to lie on their backs for him.

Me:

Xavier, this benefits thing of ours, it’s not exclusive. Find someone else to keep you company tonight. I’m tired and going to sleep.

I regret the words as soon as I hit send. It’s better this way, though, right? I don’t have to worry about getting too attached if I know we’re not exclusive. I wait a few minutes for him to reply; he doesn’t.

The bed dips behind me, the movement stirring me awake. “Lucy?” I ask. It wouldn’t be the first time she’s climbed into bed with me. She doesn’t tell many people, but she has horrible nightmares. Except they’re not really nightmares when you’re reliving an event from your past, are they?

“Wrong Christianson, babe.” Xavier’s voice is rough and has my eyes snapping open.

The room is dark; the only light slipping through the door of the bathroom. “What are you doing here?” I ask, rolling over to face him.

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