Page 27 of Daddy's Game

We exited the store, the staffers promising to deliver our purchases to the hotel suite. I didn’t even know we had a hotel suite. They also guaranteed the custom alterations would be done in more than enough time for our dinner date.

“I had completely forgotten we were supposed to go to dinner,” I said with a chuckle.

Brock smiled as we headed back out into the streets. He summoned the car and we climbed into the back.

“Where to next?”

“You’re asking me?” I blurted.

“Yes. Where would you like to go.”

“I’ve always wanted to see the Louvre.”

“Of course.”

He instructed our driver, once again in French. I found myself conflicted as we rolled through the historic streets of Paris.

Things were far more complicated than I had realized. I had known Brock by reputation only before we met. People said he was among the most ruthless and efficient businessmen in the world. His world was one of high stakes deals, smoky boardrooms, and international financial deals that could make or break the market.

Now, though, I was starting to realize Brock was so much more than his reputation. He was showing me another side to himself. A side capable of warmth, and affection. He made me feel both appreciated and taken care of.

But I’d been on dates with men before, men who had made me feel much the same way though not as intensely. They’d been very considerate, at first. Once the first couple of dates were past, they began to let their masks of civility slip, and show the ape underneath.

I feared he would stop being nice, and revert to a total jerk when he got comfortable around me. Guys my own age did that all the time.

Not to mention he was planning to buy my land out from underneath me. I had dedicated my life to the center. I did it because it was a needed service, and because of Carrie. I missed her so damn much it hurt to breathe, sometimes.

I could never sell. Not ever.

With that hanging between us, would we ever be able to make what we had work?

I made a decision then, one I wasn't certain I would be able to keep. I decided that if I did get involved with Brock, it would be a casual, physical thing only. I would not allow myself to get emotionally involved with my enemy.

And I certainly, definitely, absolutely, would NOT allow myself to fall in love with him.

10

BROCK

“It’s really small.”

My mouth gaped open as I stared at Grace in shock. I couldn't believe what I was hearing.

“Don’t get me wrong, I like it,” she said quickly upon seeing my reaction. “It’s just…small.”

“This is blasphemy.”

Grace gave me a sardonic smile.

“It’s a painting, Brock. Don’t you think you’re being a bit melodramatic?”

“It’s not just a painting. It’s the Mona Lisa. It’s an icon.”

“It’s a small icon.”

I noticed the corners of her mouth twitching, and the spark of light in her eyes.

“You’re just fucking with me, aren’t you?”

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