Page 21 of Torrid Passion
CHAPTER 6
Kyla
After getting over the shock of seeing my best friend’s older brother at the location where I was supposed to meet Mr. Pussy for a night of perversion, I was able to relax and enjoy myself.
Talk about uncomfortable encounter.
Just like the rest of this hotel, the steakhouse is decorated with such exquisite taste. The restaurant is packed, but Loki and I have the best seat in the house. He says he’s good friends with the owner. It pays off. Since Charcoal is located on the second floor, we’re privy to a pretty sweet view. Of course, nothing matches the panty-melting one sitting across from me. If I weren’t already sitting, his gorgeousness would knock me off my feet.
Loki has been all compliments since I arrived. I don’t think I’ve ever blushed so hard in my life. I’ve been more reserved. It’s not because he isn’t worthy of praise, it’s because I might betray myself. This eligible hunk doesn’t need to know I have a crush on him. I’ll just sit here and lust over him in silence.
My God, the man is delectable.
Loki’s good looks are undeniable, but it’s his endearing and funny personality that really gets you. Although I’ve known him for more years than I can count, this is only the second time it’s just the two of us. I know it’s all fun and games, but I won’t lie, I got a big kick out of him calling me his date. This fairytale might only last for a few hours, but I’ll soak it all up.
I’m pretty sure Stella and Hayden will think I made this story up. I may be an aspiring screenwriter, but God’s hands are all over this.
Thank you, Glenda and Grant.
“Here’s to a long-overdue reunion!” Loki says, lifting his glass after Laurent, our server with a French accent, finishes topping our flutes.
“Cheers!” I say, lifting my flute. “Here’s to me being at the right place at the right time.”
“I like the way you think,” he winks.
We clink glasses before taking a long sip of champagne.
“Wow! This is exceptional,” I say.
“I agree. Neal wasn’t overselling this.”
“Not that I know much about this place, but from what I’ve seen so far, I’m not surprised.”
“Like I said, Larkin Gallagher only buys the top-of-the-line.”
I nod in agreement.
I take another sip, hoping it’ll give me the courage I need to ask the question that’s been burning my tongue.
“So, here we are again… Kyla and Loki,” Amusement laces my words.
He stands up, circles the table and slides onto the semicircular seat next to me. He leans in so close, I can smell every note of his expensive cologne.
Oh God.
My insides do this topsy turvy flip.
“Here we are again…” his words trail. “It makes sense. We’re adults and we’re both flying solo,” he says in a soft voice.
“You’re right,” I nod a few times, trying to pretend his proximity doesn’t have an effect on me.
“I reckon I’m the luckiest guy in this room,” he whispers in my ear.
“You are?” I take another sip of champagne to calm my nerves.
“Yeah. Do you see any other man sitting with a younger version of Monica Bellucci?”
He catches me off guard.
