Page 58 of Resisting Temptation

“Where are we going? I have a shift at the florist.”

“I’m coming with you. I organized a reporter to do a write-up about you for Sunday’s paper, thought it might give you some new business and let this town know firsthand how incredible you are.”

I smile back at him. This man constantly surprises me with his kindness. “Thank you.”

“Don’t mention it, kitten. I have the power to change lives, so why wouldn’t I use it?”

His last comment sticks with me.He has the power to change lives.I guess that’s exactly what this media company has the power to do. Change them for the better or worse. I’ve seen them do it, with the way they affected the Alexanders’ hotel last year,and even with the way Miss Turner is able to influence the gossip being spread through the hair salon as the clients chat over her latest article. The Prescotts already have more influence than anyone, and I start to see Noah’s point. Even if Beckett would be good for this town, is it right to give him even more control? I guess that’s a question this town will have to answer.

Chapter 31

Noah

The donor dinner event Margo has put together has been eye-opening to say the least. Lots of influential local business owners here to share their dreams about this town and offer their support. While I appreciate their backing, something has felt off all night, like Margo is selling me to the highest bidder. I’ve played my part, done the rounds, and smiled on cue, but I can’t shake this uneasy feeling this group of high-profile people give me. I’m ready to escape the bullshit and go home to my girl.

I sip my bourbon as I lean against the bar and survey the room. I should feel happy Paisley’s with me, but she’s not with me. Physically, she’s in my bed every night, but when we’ve finished fucking, she’s distant. And the next morning, she climbs over the back fence as early as possible like I’m her dirty little secret. It’sgetting on my nerves. She’s sneaking around for him, and I can’t stand it. She should help me win, not Beckett.

Noah: You better be in my bed naked by the time I get home tonight.

I send her off a text, just so she knows I’m thinking about her, and fuck, it’s literally the only thing I can think about now. I’m getting out of here.

Margo’s voice cuts through the bustling ambiance of the room, drawing my attention to her. With each step she takes, her hips sway gracefully in her stunning, champagne-colored evening gown. “Noah, this is Adrian Giorgio,” she says, gesturing toward the man beside her.

Moving to face him, I extend my hand as he does the same. His grip is firm, a subtle power emanating from his demeanor. “Nice to meet you,” I say, keeping my tone respectful yet guarded. He’s an impeccably dressed man, likely in his late fifties, graying but still with a full head of hair.

“Mr. Giorgio runs a couple of businesses downtown, the biggest one being Giorgio Motors,” Margo explains. “He’s been dying to meet you.”

Everyone in this town knows that car dealership. He mostly sells high-end luxury cars and bikes. Adrian’s gaze meets mine with a knowing intensity. He stands just as tall as I am, an imposing figure in his black suit. “I’ve owned businesses in this town for thirty years. I knew your father. Such a shame what happened to him in the end. He was a good mayor. And man.”

His words hang in the air, laden with unspoken implications. I nod, masking the tumult of emotions churning within me. I have heard the same commentevery time Margo introduces me to someone new. The older generation of this town all knew my father well, and even after what he was arrested for, they all still respect him and his time in office. It makes me sick. To them he’s a convicted criminal.You’re not any better,a voice inside tells me. I’ve been hearing it more and more since I started this campaign, telling me I’m not worthy of this title after the things I’ve done.

“I followed your football career; you were certainly the touchdown king. Do you think you can run this town with as much gusto? We’re relying on you to win.”

“According to the polls Noah’s ahead.” Margo grins at me proudly.

He nods, impressed. “Of course you are, son. Join me for a drink.” He places a hand on my back, and I know it’s not a question. I glance back at Margo, and she offers an encouraging nod, telling me to go with him.

We leisurely make our way to the bar, where he orders two bourbons, and then we venture out to the courtyard. There’s a serene atmosphere, with a small group of men enjoying cigars, but we don’t join them.

“Margo mentioned that you’ve got yourself a nice house in town.”

I nod, assessing him, wondering what exactly he wants from me. “It was my grandmother’s. Been in the family for three generations.”

“Perfect. And a girl? The doctor’s daughter. Nice choice there. She’s a sweet little thing, isn’t she?” He observes me closely, waiting for a response. I give him nothing.

An icy shiver runs over my spine. Who the fuck is this guy? My face hardens. No one knows about Paisley andme except our closest friends. And for him to drop her into our conversation so casually puts me on edge.

His cunning gaze roams over me. It’s calculating and holds an evil edge I don’t like the look of. “Your father was wise, compliant. He knew how this town operated, playing his part like a respectable mayor should. I’m sure you would make a great addition to the team. But you’re going to need to get rid of the girl for that to happen. We can’t be seen associating with the Whittakers, son. That’s just bad for business.”

“Excuse me?” I snarl, rage surging through me. Who the fuck does this guy think he is? I won’t be told by anyone that I can’t be with her.

“What I’m saying is, it’s okay to have your fun, fuck around with a nice piece of ass like the doctor’s daughter, but now you need to focus on what’s important. Deception Bay needs a new leader, and we have decided you’re it. I have pledged a great deal of money in support of you tonight and so have my associates. That doesn’t come without its payoff.” His glare intensifies as if he’s looking right through me. It’s menacing and holds a powerful threat. “Start thinking with your head and not your dick, son, and you will go far. You’re not a professional athlete anymore.”

“I won’t accept your dirty money if it comes with an asshole like you controlling me,” I seethe, anger coursing through my veins. Is he one of the motherfuckers who was controlling my father? I’ll fucking end him if he was.

Without warning, his hand comes to my throat and he shoves me into the brick wall behind us. “Listen here, son. This is not a friendly discussion. You don’t have afucking choice in the matter, you do as I say or see what happens.”

“I don’t answer to you,” I spit back at him, showing him I’m not scared of his threats.

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