Page 81 of Elevator Pitch

“You better. With words please? He didn’t let me do anything but organize those books. I told him where to place things, but he did the work. Thank him, please.” She gives me a stern look as she stands beside Eric, who’s waiting in the entryway. She adjusts her purse on her forearm and shuffles towards the door. She halts as if she forgot something, pointing toward my kitchen, she informs, “oh and there’s leftover cake in the fridge, Grey made it with me. I had to fight Eric off to make sure he saved you a slice.”

“That was nice of you. Eric, too,” I chuckle. “Thanks again. I love you, Aud. I appreciate you so much.”

“I love you too. Don’t mention it.” She adds a soft smile and follows Eric out the door.

I stand in my living room for a moment. I had anxiety about coming home to a surprise, but I never expectedthis. I’m so grateful and want to relish it for as long as I can.

I go to my office and admire my bookshelves for a moment, I run my fingers through the assortment of books and examine the shelves. Determined to spot the new homes of my favorite reads. Until I notice an empty space. My stomach sinks when I realize one of my books is missing. I look closely and see a tiny sheet of paper in its place. I carefully remove the note and read it.

Consider this collateral.

I’ll be hearing from you soon, Sunflower. :)

That little shit.

I huff as I pull out my phone, firing off a text to a certain infuriatingly sexy man.

Me

Thank you. I got your little note. I was going to tell you when I made it home. Can I have my book back?

I stew in my bedroom and wait for a response. I force myself to unpack my suitcase now, or else it won’t get done. Once I’m finished, I hop in the shower and throw on some comfy clothes to relax. My growling tummy starts to roar, and I head to the kitchen to scour the fridge for something quick. That’s when I notice the leftover cake Audrey mentioned. I grab a fork and dig in.

Damn, that’s good.

My phone dings back-to-back. I pull it from my pocket and see(2) Text Messages from Greyson.

Greyson

That’s it?

Where are your manners, Princess?

Me

Thank you for setting up the reading nook and the mirror.

It was really kind of you and you shouldn’t have.

Can I have my book back, please?

Greyson

You’re welcome and no.

Me

Why the hell not? I’ll just come upstairs and get it.

Greyson

I’m not finished reading it, that’s why.

And be my guest, you know where I live.

You’re always welcome to come. ;)

I snort to myself and take a deep breath as I try to push away thoughts of how good he is at making me come. Before I respond, he sends another text.