Page 70 of The Exposed Heiress

“No. But there’s a security panel on the wall, and I can put the code in.”

She shook her head. “I’ve never had this problem.”

He lightly touched her thigh. “It could be a good problem. This is what Francis Bolles needs.”

She put her hand on top of his to stop his exploration. Her thoughts were scattered. “Let’s disappear. Maybe your sailboat?”

He pulled her onto his lap and kissed her neck. “No. It isn’t big enough to provide privacy or security. Maybe we should go to your parents’ estate?”

Emma enjoyed the feel of his strong embrace, but shifted back slightly. “Absolutely not. And I’m sure my flat is out of the question?”

He nodded. “Probably.”

The driver interrupted. “Where are we heading?”

Emma looked at him. “The airport?”

He laughed. “No, let’s get dinner out like a normal couple. We should attend the after party tonight in Rotherhithe and ride the publicity wave.”

She maneuvered off his lap. “It’s Fashion Week—every restaurant will be insane.”

“Let’s go to Annabel’s.” Leo pulled out his phone and added the new destination.

“Are you a member there?”

He smiled. “I am. Don’t look so shocked. It’s a good place to conduct business.”

“It must cost a fortune to belong.”

He shrugged. “It’s worth it. We can have a private dinner and not be bothered by interruptions.”

The driver pulled up to the private club adorned with roses and asked, “Do you need me to open the door for you?”

Leo said, “No, we’re fine. I’ve left a sizable tip and top rating for you.”

The driver said, “Have a good evening.”

Stepping out onto the sidewalk, Emma said, “It’s nice that no one is around.”

They were greeted warmly by the staff and seated at a secluded table in the garden room.

A waiter appeared, offering the wine list and menu.

Leo ordered a bottle of champagne, handing the menu back to the waiter.

“Yes, sir. I’ll have the sommelier return with the champagne.”

Leo nodded.

Emma held out her hand. “I can’t take in that we’re engaged.”

He reached out and held her hand. “I chose the ring at De Beers. We can go and exchange it for something that you like.”

She squeezed his hand. “I love it. I don’t want to change it. It’s slightly loose, so I’ll have it properly sized.”

The sommelier presented chilled champagne and said, “This is the Armand de Brignac Ace of Spades Brut Rose.”

Emma smiled and said, “Lovely. A pink champagne?”

---