Page 92 of Broken Rock

‘Bria told me the colour of your dress. Just relieved it matches. I didn’t realise there were so many shades of green.’

‘You bought it yourself?’

‘Of course. Why?’

She shrugs. ‘I don’t know. I guess I thought you’d have people to do that for you.’

‘Believe it or not I actually went into a real brick-and-mortar shop and picked it out all on my lonesome. If I buy something for you it means I have actually picked it out myself - well apart from the dress. That was way out of my league.’

‘Well thank you. It really is beautiful, Tate. I love it.’

He takes it from her and reaches over to fasten it around her neck. ‘You look incredible, Chloe. I mean that.’

She doesn’t know how he does it, but every single time he compliments her, a lump forms in her throat. She’s been complimented before, but the way he looks at her is so intense, she doesn’t doubt he means every word.

Instead of replying, she leans over and kisses him. It’s going to be a long night. The combination of the suit and Tate’s body is more than a little distracting.

‘Thanks for coming with me tonight.’

‘What are you thanking me for? You’ve spent an absolute fortune on me. I should be thanking you.’

‘You being here with me is worth it. You’re worth it. You know that, right?’

‘You’re going to make me cry and mess up my make-up.’

‘Well, you better get a hold of that. We’re here.’

The car slowly comes to a stop and Chloe stares out the window at the crowd waiting at either side of the wide walkway.

Tate leans across and kisses her then slips on his sunglasses as the door opens for him. He steps out to a constant flash from cameras and people shouting his name. He leans down into the car and smirks at her. ‘You’re up, gorgeous.’

She takes his hand and steps into the most surreal situation she’s ever been in. Everywhere she looks are cameras and reporters. Tate leans down to speak in her ear. ‘Just go with the flow and keep breathing. You look stunning.’

22

Tate closes the doorto their suite and locks it, then turns around to face Chloe. The last six hours have been the longest six hours of his life. Every damn time he looked at her he wanted her. Tate drapes his jacket over the back of the couch and pulls her into his arms.

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