Page 101 of Imperfect Player

“Me too.”

Once we’re inside the limo, I hand her a glass of champagne, but don’t pour one for myself. I’m on my best behavior. In order to remain so, I won’t drink—or sit close to her. In fact, I’m clear on the opposite side of the limo from where she is.

“Is there a reason you’re sitting all the way over there?” she asks.

“Yeah, because if I don’t, I won’t be able to control myself.” I shake my head. “Could that dress get any shorter?”

“What? Don’t you like it?”

She shifts in her seat, her legs parting as she does. Just long enough to give me a glimpse.

“You’re evil.”

“I know. Now, tell me where we’re going?”

“Not a chance in hell.”

“Then I guess I’ll just have to play hard ball.”

“Oh, come on, baby, mine are already blue just from looking at you. Don’t make it worse.”

When the limo comes to a stop, Everly peers out the window, then looks back at me.

“What are we doing here?”

“I’ll show you,” I say as I slide out the door and extend my hand to help her out.

As we step into the ballroom, she gasps, her hand flying to her mouth.

“Oh, Ethan.”

“It’s not a hundred-percent authentic, but if I’m being honest, I was little busy checking out my new friend and didn’t really pay attention to the decorations.”

“This is so sweet.”

“I need you to know that this is where it all began. We were more than friends from the minute I spilled that water on you.”

“I felt it too.” She twirls around the dance floor, arms out at her sides. “This is amazing. Thank you.”

Taking her hand, I bring it to my lips and press them to her palm. “Anything for you.”

The server appears, smiling, with a plate of appetizers in hand. He sets them on the table before pulling out a chair for Everly. I move my chair next to hers, my hand resting on her bare thigh as I sit.

“I thought you had to keep your distance.”

“I did in the limo. Now, you’re all mine.”

“Oh really? Even with the waiter watching creepily from the doorway? Is it just me or does he look like Lurch from the Adam’s family?”

“Damn you. Now I’m not going to be able to unsee that.”

“Sorry.”

“No, you’re not.”

“You’re right. I’m not.”

“This really is amazing,” Everly says as she relaxes back in her chair, full from our meal.

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