Page 69 of Ruthless Beast

“I don’t want to speak out of turn, but I have a feeling that my dear friend is in love.”

I don’t respond.

“You know, Emily. If there’s ever anything you need to talk about, you’re welcome to chat with me. Lucas and I have been friends our whole lives. Your secrets are safe with me.”

“Thank you, Sandy. That’s very kind of you.”

“I know how it is. Lucas lives in a man’s world. There aren’t too many women around him. It can be a pretty hostile environment. I just want you to know that I’m here if you need to talk.”

“I really appreciate that.”

“Good. Enough talk. Let’s play dress up. By the way, I received a new shipment of some pretty stunning undergarments too. Just putting it out there.”

“It’s funny you should mention it,” I smirk. “I was thinking of getting a little something for Lucas.”

“Honey, I’ve got just the thing,” Sandy laughs.

This is going to be fun. Spending the day with Sandy is just what I need.

17

LUCAS

Emily has been in my life now for six months. My feelings toward her are deepening with each passing day. I can’t imagine not having her in my life. We are perfect together. Her incredible wit and intelligence are as attractive as her physical beauty, and I can see myself happily spending the rest of my life with her.

At first, I thought that the age difference would be an issue. But that hasn’t made the slightest difference. Emily is wiser than her years, and she brings a fresh, youthful perspective to my life that I find irresistible. I simply can’t get enough of her.

My work keeps me busy, though, so I get that my young lover gets bored with her own company. I encouraged her visits with Sandy. First, because I trust my best friend implicitly, and second, because I know that Emily needs female company. Daniella is out of the question, as the enemy is aware of their friendship and is no doubt watching Emily’s best friend’s moves closely. I can’t take that risk.

The friends do talk telephonically, and so far, Emily is satisfied with that arrangement. I’m happy that she trusts me enough to respect my wishes.

“I’m going out of town next week,” I say during our late dinner together.

“Can I ask where?”

“Baltimore.”

“Okay. I take it I won't be coming along for this trip.”

“Sorry, babe. Not this one. I’ll be too busy with back to back meetings to spend time with you.”

“Plus, it’s dangerous. Right?”

“Am I that transparent?”

“No. I’ve learned to read you, that's all.”

“I should have known you’d be this perceptive. It looks like I’m going to have to work on my poker face.”

“Your poker face is fine. It’s me. I get you.”

“Do you, now?”

“Yup.”

“Can you tell how much I’m going to miss you?”

“Uh-huh. You’re going to be completely miserable,” she smiles.

---