Page 66 of Temptation

She looked as if she belonged there. Probably because she did. She’d played a role in many of the final design decisions. The details that had really brought it all together.

It had been weeks since I’d asked her to move in. She’d never outright agreed, but she stayed here every night. And she’d brought over more of her things from her mom’s.

“I will.” I grinned. “Because you’re going with me.”

Tonight was the annual gala to celebrate the Leatherbacks and support our charitable endeavors, and it was being hosted at the Huxley Grand. It was a huge, star-studded event, and there was one person in particular I wanted Kendall to meet. But first, I needed to convince her to go with me.

“What?” She jerked her head back. “You’re kidding, right?”

I sank down beside her. “I want you there with me,mi cielo.”

It bothered me that we couldn’t go on a real date like an ordinary couple, so this was the best solution I’d come up with. For now, anyway.

“But…”

I cut off her protest with a look, knowing what she was about to say. I didn’t want to hear Jude’s name. He’d dated her once, for six months.

Besides, he was with Chrissy now. And while they’d be attending the event tonight, Jude would understand if I brought Kendall along. This could technically fall within her job description, even if it was a bit of a stretch. Somehow, I didn’t think he’d mind.

“It’s a work event,” I said. “And your boss demands your attendance.”

“And ifmy boss—” her tone was saccharine “—wished to make my attendance mandatory, he should’ve given me more notice so I could’ve found a suitable dress or gotten my nails done.”

“Mi cielo.” I placed my finger to her lips. “You don’t have to worry about a thing.”

Her eyes widened then narrowed. “Knox. What did you do?”

“You’ll see.” I leaned in, smiling against her lips before kissing her thoroughly. I couldn’t wait to see her reaction. I’d been planning this for weeks, and it had been difficult to keep it a surprise. But I knew the payoff would be worth it.

As soon as we entered the penthouse suite at the Huxley Grand, Kendall’s eyes went wide. She seemed to be taking it all in, from the glittering chandeliers to the floor-to-ceiling views of downtown Los Angeles.

“What’s all this?” Kendall asked, glancing around at the living room where several racks of designer gowns were now on display.

“My stylist will be here soon. Choose whatever you like. And a glam squad will help you get ready.”

“Yeah, but…” She shook her head, and when she started to back away, I knew she realized this was all for her.

I stepped closer, rubbing my hands up and down her arms. Holding her in place. “Nope. I don’t want to hear any arguments.”

“But—”

I kissed her, holding her close. “It would please me very much to dress you in a beautiful gown.”

She sighed in resignation, her shoulders relaxing. I knew she enjoyed pleasing me. And I had a feeling she was just being stubborn about the gown. I’d seen the way her eyes had lit up when she’d entered the room.

There was a knock at the door, and I went to answer it.

“Good afternoon,” Jay said, entering with his usual panache. His team followed behind.

I stepped back to let him see Kendall, wanting her to step into the spotlight. Into her power.

“Ooh. Your picture didn’t do you justice,” Jay gushed, sizing Kendall up.

“Picture?” She sounded confused and a bit wary, but he was too busy assessing her from all angles. Admiring her curves. If he weren’t so good at his job—and so happily married—I would’ve fired him on the spot.

“Well, I’ll leave you to it.” I headed for the door, but not before pressing my lips to Kendall’s cheek. “Have fun.”

Kendall’s face froze, and I could feel the waves of panic rolling off her.

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