Page 9 of Diamonds & Deception

I’m about to comment on his full ride to MIT but that would show I’ve looked him up. “Well, college was a long time ago. I don’t have as much free time anymore.”

That’s pretty much a lie for Lenora and me. She makes time to live freely. I’m a workaholic and have become a bore. It’s not from any messed-up relationship or any kind of depression. I got into work mode young and became more serious the older I got.

I’ve had my share of relationships, but none that ever fired up serious chemistry. Nice guys. Career-driven like me. Predictable. Boring, again, like myself.

“That’s too bad. You should always make time for yourself. Do what you enjoy.”

“Tell me what you do on your days off.”

He takes a sip of his iced tea before responding. “Busted. Like you, I work around the clock. I have a close circle of friends who are also workaholics. Other than my morning runs, I’m pretty much here all the time.”

“The casino has only been around for a little over a year. What did you do before?”

It’s not like I need him to tell me, but I need him to think I’m truly interested in his life, so he’ll open up to me. Tell me about his current work situation. When he finally breaks down and tells me he owns Four Aces, I’ll know I’m in.

“I worked at other casinos. Two down in New Orleans and did a stint at Foxwoods.”

“Working in a casino has always been a passion for you?”

“No.” He finishes his sub and wads up the paper, putting it in the empty bag. “I got an internship at Foxwoods while in college. Free room and board. I thought it would be a fun gig. Work by day, play cards by night. But it’s the business side of things I enjoy the most. Gambling with investments, new marketing plans. I like people as well. I’m pretty good at bringing two sides of the table together and coming up with a compromise that pleases both.”

Damn, that’s sexy.

“Enough about me. I can tell by the way your eyes glaze over that I’m boring you.”

“I think you’re fascinating.”

Drake frowns and slips his phone from his pocket, then lets out a curse.

I straighten my shoulders, afraid of what he’s uncovered.

“I have a conference call in three minutes. I’ve had to reschedule three times already, otherwise, I’d—”

“It’s okay.” I toss my garbage in the bag and stand. “I appreciate you taking time out of your busy schedule to treat me to dinner.”

Drake steps in front of me, pinning me against the table, and puts his hands on my hips. “I want to spend more time with you, Nora.” His eyes lower to my lips, and I instinctively lick them. “My calculations tell me if I lean in and kiss you right now, you’re not going to smack me.”

I smile demurely up at him and rest my hands on his chest. “Your math is pretty good.”

“Pretty good?” He quirks a brow and lowers his mouth to mine.

I taste the sweetness of his tea as he traces my bottom lip with his tongue. I open for him, and he locks his mouth over mine, pressing gently but firmly. He’s soft, but demanding, playful, yet serious in his kiss.

My pulse quickens as he squeezes my hips, keeping just enough distance between our centers so we’re decent but close enough so I can smell his scent. Sandalwood, soap, and leather. An intoxicating mix.

He slows the kiss and loosens his hold on my hips before pulling away. “I want to see you again,” he whispers in my ear before tracing my lobe with his tongue.

I nod. Realizing I’ve clutched his shirt in my hands, I loosen the material and rub my hand over it, trying to straighten out the wrinkles I caused.

“What’s your number?”

“I can put it in your phone.”

“I’ll remember.”

I rattle it off, and he kisses me again. This time no tongue, just a quick goodbye kiss. “You’re going to be late for your meeting. I don’t want you to get in trouble.”

His smile is bright and wide. “You’re too sweet, Nora. Way too sweet for me.” He squeezes my hand, then steps away. “I’ll walk you out.”

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