Page 37 of The Sweetmate
That’s not uncommon for her. For the short time I’ve known her, I’ve come to know Lisa is observant. She’s quick to capture the best moments, and process everything around her, finding each person’s best quality. Which is strange considering she can’t seem to do it for herself. The woman’s only flaw is she doesn’t know how to let her hair down. She’s wound up so tight and making her seem almost like a prude.
Slowly she untangles herself from me. “Well, glad you slept well enough to dream.”
“Best sleep in a long time.”
“Same.” She stands and begins to undo her braid. “I guess we better hurry and get ready. You have a big day today. Are you nervous or use to the cameras and such?”
Expressionless, I say, “I don’t think I could ever get used to a camera in my face. But cooking is easy for me. I just get in the zone.”
“Makes sense. Also,” She sways back and forth, “sorry I didn’t keep to my side of the bed.”
I raise up in bed, causing my muscles to flex and my shirt to stretch. I don’t miss and I certainly don’t mind the way her eyes zero in on my body. “No complaints here. It’s probably what contributed to such a peaceful slumber. I’m already looking forward to bedtime. In fact, we can just stay here.” I pat the spot next to me on the bed. It’s still warm from her.
And there it is, I can see the spark, the intrigue and desire. I want so badly to take her hand and drag her back to me. But I won’t push. Quickly the look fades away and is replaced byhumor. “Get up. Today is the first official day of Cupcake PR, and I’ll not have my client arriving late.”
“Believe me, the client wouldn’t complain one bit.” I release anoomphas a pillow flies into me. “We might need to discuss your abusive tendencies. I only accept physical harm after someone has made me dinner and there’s a promise of pleasure accompanying it.”
“Maybe one day.” She sighs as she walks toward the bathroom.
“You’ll throw in pleasure or dinner or both?”
“Maybe one day,” she repeats.
“You devil woman! Don’t taunt me!” I call out as the door shuts.
My phone rings. I flip it over and see that it’s my uncle. I swipe the screen and speak into the phone. “I’m not giving her back.” I end the call and switch the phone to silent.
Brox was an idiot to have had such an amazing person in his corner, and to have allowed that jackass to be her supervisor. I don’t even want to dive into why he looked the other way for so long. I’ve always been the type of person to jump into something blind, full faith, and with both feet. Despite my growing attraction to her, I’m committed to helping Lisa find herself and build up a career she can be proud of. Everyone deserves to have someone believe in them and support them without ulterior motives.
If I’m completely honest, I do have one motive which is to make Lisa mine. But if she can’t be mine, she sure won’t be obligated to any douche. I’ll be whomever she’ll let me be in her life. Client. Lover. Boss. Friend. Protector. Destined husband. We’ll see. For now I’ll enjoy being the focus of her attention as her devoted fake boyfriend and client.
Chapter 12
Lisa
When I step out of the bathroom, Casey already has breakfast and coffee waiting for me. I find it odd that every room we stay in has a full kitchen yet no second bed. I won’t complain though. Last night was the best sleep I’ve had in years. I refuse to acknowledge that his strong arms and warm body contributed to that in any way. I sit down and check my phone, there’s several missed calls from Mr. Brunner.
“Don’t do that.” Casey’s voice has a bit of an edge to it.
“What?”
“I’m here if you want to talk. I saw the look on your face. You were about to bury down your feelings and shut down. You can be upset about your job. Talk to me. I’m here for you.”
“Please, I don’t want you treating me any differently than you do any other employee. Do you have heart to heart conversations with Jensen.”
Without an ounce of hesitation he says, “Yeah. The only difference in how I treat you is I don’t cuddle him, kiss him, and we’ve never taken on the role of fake relationship. But we’ve had our share of letting out grievances, pity parties, and deep thought-provoking conversations.”
“I don’t want pity.”
“Yeah, I get your proud. But I’m not offering pity. Maybe I’m offering you a body to lean on. Or use for any need that arises.” He bites his lower lip and my tummy tightens.
“There’s not a single doubt in my mind that you’re up for meeting any of my needs. The thought is appreciated, but no need.”
I quickly divert my eyes and focus on my delicious breakfast. Casey grabs a cup of coffee and begins walking toward the bedroom. He pauses and looks over his shoulder. “I’ve already told my uncle to fuck off and he isn’t getting you back. I meant it, cupcake. Nobody is going to fuck with you while you’re mine. I joke a lot, but your career is in your own hands now. I’ll see to it nobody ever holds you back again.”
“What if it’s you?” I boldly ask.
He twists his body so his eyes can meet mine. “I’d never hold you back, baby. With me, you’ll reach new heights you never thought possible.” He gives me that infuriating wink and continues on his way with his head held high and like he didn’t just melt my entire insides with his words.
