Page 23 of Ashes of Saints

I start laughing.

“You couldn’t live without me.”

“Fine. You can be my lady maid.” She munches on more chips.

Pretty sure that’s not what they’re called, but I ignore her and tug the dress over my head. We might be different in many ways but we’re close. Chloe is the kind of friend that would help you bury a body at two a.m.

Not that I’m planning it.

The dark emerald dress hits my thighs and I spin around. It’s short, but not too short if he takes me to a nice restaurant. I tug on a black jacket and sit to do up the ankle strap on my heels.

“If he has hot friends, I’ll let you know. Right now, I am going to take your advice and change my underwear, so goodbye.”

I grin as I walk toward the phone.

Before I can end the call, she calls out, “Or no panties at all!”

Laughing, I end the call and take note of the time on the screen. I quickly change my underwear, spray some perfume, tuck my phone in my purse, and dart around looking for my keys. Finding them, I race to the door, stop, draw in a deep breath, and blow it out.

Here I go.

Why am I so nervous?

My heart is beating away in my chest. I don’t know if it’s from excitement or nerves. Could be both. Either way, I have a feeling I won’t forget tonight.

I pull the door open and catch the elevator down to the small lobby of my building, then step outside. Parker is dressed all in black, leaning against a black Maserati with his arms crossed.

Holy shit.

I think I just got pregnant from looking at him.

His smile, as he pushes away from the vehicle and strides toward me, looks predatory and dangerous.

And I like it.

A lot.

“Aurora.” Parker lifts my hand and kisses it, like yesterday, sending red fiery lust through my body.

Christ.

Handsome, rich, and he’s as smooth as butter. I’m not strong enough to resist this man. In saying that, he’s not the kind of man you marry. This is the man you go home with and let him fuck you like it’s your last night on earth.

Then never regret it for a single second.

Even if you never tell a soul how good it felt to be a complete and unapologetic slut.

Oh my god, where are these thoughts coming from?

“Hello, Parker.” I try hard to sound unaffected, but we both know I am.

“You look beautiful.” He rasps.

So do you.

His deep blue eyes tap away at my memory once more, but I know I’ve never met him. I’d remember. There’s no doubt in my mind he’s very experienced with women and I’m just this weekend’s date.

“Shall we?” His hand slides effortlessly to the small of my back and, with a grin, leads me to the passenger door of the luxury vehicle.

---