Page 56 of Scandalous

“Did you now?” She smirks, crossing her arms over her chest, pushing her cleavage up.

It takes all of my willpower not to objectify her and look down. “I did. I figured you needed to be clued in on how we operate. Since these fuckers only seem to want to get into your pants, it’s best if I’m the one to go over it with you. The massage is just a way to make it more pleasant for us both.”

She glares at me. “I want a massage and a facial then.”

“Done,” I reply quickly, hating the relief I feel that she said yes.

It’s not supposed to be a date, but it feels like one.

A beautiful smile spreads across her face.

“Just you and me? You can handle being alone with me for that long?” she teases.

Some may consider it flirting, but I know she’s playing her game.

“If that’s all right with you.” I nod.

“How about afterward we grab some food before meeting up with the guys?” she offers.

“Sure,” I agree, wanting to see where she’s taking this.

“Anything I want,” she says, raising a brow.

I hesitate. I’m so picky about food, but this isn’t a fight I’m willing to have with her right now. By the time we make it to the food, she very well may hate me.

So reluctantly, I nod.

“It’s a date.” She smiles, leaning in to kiss my cheek.

Before I can protest, she’s already turned away, talking to Liam and Drake.

Drake mouths thank you to me without her noticing, and Liam’s look says it as well.

I feel him come up beside me.

“Thank you,” Santi whispers as he sets his hand on my shoulder, squeezing it.

Closing my eyes, I pray that I’m doing the right thing for all of us.

* * *

Walking into our vacation rental, I shake my head. “You did good, kid.”

I pat Liam on the shoulder as I take in the cozy home.

“Thanks.” Liam is beaming.

I swear the kid is like a golden retriever. He’s all energy and fun, but deep down, all he wants is to love and be loved.

I sling both my bag and Aurora’s over my shoulder before heading down a hall. I find two rooms next to each other and set my bag in the first before setting hers in the one next door.

I look around the room, smiling at the obvious feminine touches in it. It even has its own attached bathroom, unlike the room I chose for myself. It’s perfect for our angel.

“Hey, there you are.” Aurora’s voice causes me to turn toward the door, finding her leaning against the doorframe. “Thanks for carrying that.”

“You’re welcome.” I clear my throat. “I’ll let you get ready.”

As I approach her, I lean down and kiss her cheek. I move to step around her, only for her to place her hand on my arm, stopping me.

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