Page 67 of My Ruthless Opponent

I am seething by the time he resumes his seat on the lounge chair.

“Where were we?” He asks. And I rub my temples. No use in arguing with him on basic etiquette.

“A base of our story.” I purse my lips.

“Right. Me coming to pick you up was a big shock for everyone. This was needed to ease them into the news we’ll be sharing with them later.” He doesn’t have to say more. The bomb of our engagement.

“Announcing our engagement out of the blue would have raised eyebrows.” He points out. “They never would have believed it.”

“What makes you think they won’t suspect now?”

“Your team might. But not mine.”

“Huh?”

“Nina must have texted everyone what happened. And trust me they will believe our act.”

“Quit smirking like that and tell me. I hate when you talk in puzzles.”

He laughs. “All right. All right.” He says before getting rid of the jacket.

He gets comfortable like he is going to tell me a story.

Oh, God.

Chapter Fourteen

“You must be aware I have a history with dating models,” Raleigh says with an even expression. He isn’t showing off.

“Who doesn’t? Whoever you dated always ended up extending their contracts with us in the hopes of getting a hold of you.”

He never dates. And his flings don’t last more than a week. I know this because this is the favorite topic of the interns.

They love gossiping during their break time and unfortunately my favorite place to unwind is located on the same floor. That’s how I know everything about his flings.

“That’s not the point here.”

“Then please get to it.”

“Fine.” He snaps and I dig my nails in my palm. Lovely. If he keeps this up, my attraction will wither away in no time.

“I never sent them flowers. Ever. I suggested Nina to ask Brielle out by getting her flowers—”

“Wait, what? You suggested she do that? This better not be a prank, RJ. Brielle has real feelings for Nina. If she hurts her, there will be hell to pay.”

“Stop jumping to the conclusions. Let me complete before giving your verdict, your honor.” He grinds out. I glare at him.

“I suggested that because Nina has a crush on Brielle. I merely encouraged her into making a move. I saw this as a perfect opportunity to use it for my plan and I did.” He shrugs.

“You are saying you took advantage of your friend’s situation and encouraged her because you saw it as an opportunity?”

Raleigh Jackson is selfish. And he is unapologetic about it.

“Don’t put words in my mouth, princess.” His eyes flash.

I can see where this conversation is heading. We are approximately two minutes away from an argument. I need to hit the brakes before it barrels off the track.

“Whatever. Continue. I won’t interrupt now.”

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