Page 128 of Billion Dollar Love: Manlove Edition

“They’re getting married.” Chris rolled his eyes again and sighed. “Luke needs to just set a date already.”

“Do you know Duncan?” Carson asked. “Maybe it’s not as tight as everyone thinks.”

Beth shrugged. “We’d prefer the librarian be married—to a woman.”

Sindy arrived and slid into the other side of the booth. She scooted around next to Carson. “I’m so glad I found you.”

Beth smiled and offered her hand. “Is this your girl?”

“My assistant,” Carson said. “Sindy McCallum.”

“You know, I’ve read so many romances where the boss and assistant fall in love. Maybe that’s in the future for you.” Beth’s smile increased in wattage. “You should couple up. You’re cute together.”

“Yeah, no.” Sindy laughed and narrowed her eyes. “I’m not interested in Carson. I’m more partial to Eric, my husband.”

“Oh.” Beth left the booth. “Well, enjoy the evening. We’ve got awards to distribute tonight. We’d love to announce a donation.”

Lovely. “I’ll let you know what I decide.” He waited for Chris and Beth to leave, then turned to Sindy. “I appreciated your save. Everything okay?”

“Nothing’s wrong. You looked trapped. How much did they want you to donate?” she asked. “A pretty penny?”

“They didn’t give a figure, but I’m sure the more I donate, the more they’ll appreciate it.” He shifted in his seat again. He hated crowds and being the center of attention. The commercials were different. He could film those and be one of the few people in the room.

Sindy toyed with a place card. “Looks like they’ve decided where everyone is sitting.” She pointed to the card next to him. “They’ve got me next to you, then an empty spot. I wonder who is on the other side of the booth. No one?”

“Who knows.” He groaned. “If they gave me a table alone, I’ll leave.”

“You’re right here,” Beth said. She gestured to the table. “Right at this one.”

Carson met the gaze of the person about to share his booth. “Luke.”

Luke stood with a date. Duncan. Carson tamped down his excitement. Seeing Luke with someone saddened him. He didn’t want Luke to be with another man. “Hi.” He stood. “Welcome to our table.”

Luke’s eyes widened. “Hi.”

Carson focused. Damn. Life had been good to his ex-boyfriend. Still so tall and thin, but handsome. He’d cut his black hair shorter than when they were in college and lines had been etched at the corners of his brown eyes, but he still exuded sexiness. The stubble on his strong jaw added to his attractiveness. What would it feel like to kiss him now? To have him smile and hold his hand again? Would the sparks be as intense? More?

He had to find out.

Carson had Luke there and close. He knew what he wanted, and he wouldn’t stop until he got his man. He wouldn’t lose or walk away this time.

****

Luke wished he hadn’t shown up at the reunion and hadn’t brought Duncan. He hadn’t wanted to arrive alone. He’d gone to the prom alone and more than one homecoming dance on his own. Then he’d started seeing Carson, and he hadn’t been a solo act. With Duncan, he wasn’t alone, but he wasn’t happy. He’d have to introduce Carson to Duncan. Damn it.

Carson extended his hand to Luke. “It’s been a long time.” Warmth shone in his eyes and he smiled. He held the handshake for a pregnant moment.

“It has,” Luke managed. Carson had that effect on him—tongue-tied. He wanted to say more, but the words weren’t there. He swept his gaze over Carson. His hair was a little thinner, but still perfect in its style. He’d grown thinner, but the slender look worked for him. His blue eyes sparkled. He smelled good, too.

Duncan shot around Luke and shoved him out of the way. He clasped Carson’s hand. “I’m beyond thrilled to meet you.” He beamed. “It’s really you. I have your app and buy your shakes. You’ve really helped with my workout.”

Luke sank onto the other side of the booth bench. He bit back nausea. Jesus. He should’ve made a bet with himself as to how fast Duncan would make a pass at Carson. Why shouldn’t Duncan make a play for Carson? The man was still sexy. Granted he was only twenty-eight, but he’d aged well. He stole a glance at Carson, who smiled, then winked.

The same old feelings swarmed within Luke. He still cared about Carson, and he wished he could quit his ex-boyfriend. After all, Carson had moved on. Hadn’t he?

Duncan continued to flirt, annoying Luke. “How long will you be in town?” Duncan asked. “A few days? I know you can’t want to be here. I mean, blah. Classmates. I’ll bet you’re ready to go back to the noise and glamor of New York. Or are you in LA now?”

“I’m happy to be in Litchfield,” Carson said. “It’s nice to have a change of pace.” He tipped his head. “You’re cute, though.”

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