Page 23 of My Fake Lover

»And how is it?« Low greeted me when I called her. I had retreated to the catering tent, grabbed a bottle of lemonade and a pack of vegan organic cookies, and plopped down on one of the lounge chairs. It was completely crazy; there was a cream-colored carpet on the floor and a silver chandelier hanging from the ceiling. It was the most luxurious tent I had ever seen in my life.

»I feel like I’m in one of those romantic comedies you’re always watching.« My gaze wandered around the room, to the counter where one of the caterer’s staff stood and handed out snacks, while a handful of people enjoyed some quiet time here.

»Why? Is it in a castle, and your biggest enemy turned out to be your secret prince?«

I had to laugh. »Sort of. The wedding is taking place in huge white tents in the garden of a really amazing estate. The people consist of top models and loads of yogis. It’s a truly curious mix, I tell you.«

»Top models and yogis? That does sound pretty crazy. Is that why Max wasn’t up for it?«

»Probably. He’s quite...« I searched for a fitting word for him. »Controlled.«

»And has trouble with top models? That sounds like a guy to marry.«

I put another cookie in my mouth. They were really good. »Marrying is actually the last thing I have in mind with him.«

»Oh, that sounds hot.«

»Somehow, there’s always this tension between us. Like only a tiny spark is missing before we jump each other.«

»Wow, I’m jealous! Snag him!«

I snorted. »It’s not that simple. It would complicate everything.«

»It doesn’t have to! Just let it happen, maybe it can work?«

»And most likely not. We live in two completely different worlds.«

Low sighed. »You’re terribly pessimistic.«

»Realistic would be more accurate.«

»Then at least have some wild, hot control freak sex without meaning!«

I had to laugh. »We’ll see.«

»And where is your Mister Hot Holmes right now?«

»He’s with his brother, chatting with some people, and I needed a break.«

»I can understand that. Being at such a luxurious wedding must be quite exhausting.« I heard the grin in her voice.

»Exactly, and that’s why I’m hanging up now and enjoying the silence.«

»You’re mean.«

»Love you!«

»Love you more!«

With a smile, I leaned my head against the tall backrest of the chair and closed my eyes. Maybe Low was right, and I was overthinking what was developing between Max and me. It was probably just physical attraction anyway, and I could handle that. That was safe ground for both of us.

»Is this one free?« A deep voice pulled me out of my relaxation, and I looked up. A man in his late twenties stood in front of me. He had dark blonde hair, bright blue eyes, and a mischievous smile. And his attention was all on me. »Only if you don’t mind, the others are all taken.«

»Yes, of course,« I finally said and smiled warmly at him. He was cute and exactly the kind of guy I would have given a second look at in the past. Nice, easygoing men you could laugh with and have a lot of fun. Not moody snobs in perfectly tailored suits, who were almost richer than the president.

He took a seat on the other chair next to me and interlocked his fingers over his flat stomach. »Great idea with the tents, right?«

»Absolutely!« I replied. »Who wouldn’t want to celebrate their own wedding for days on end?«

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