“Mm-hmm.” His eyes were on my lips. “And then, I’ll spend all night making love to you.” He pulled me closer, close enough that I could feel his hard-on.
“Mm.” I hummed. “Maybe we should just order in and then skip straight to sex.”
He chuckled. “Tempting as that is, I want to take you out. On a proper date.”
“I don’t know,” I hedged. “What if someone sees us together?”
“What if I told you we’ll be in disguise? Would that help?”
I nodded, a fluttering feeling in my stomach. Maybe we could do this.
“I want to be more than a fling.” His expression turned serious as he smoothed his hands down my arms, taking my hands in his. “I want to go on dates. I want to fall asleep and wake up next to you. I want to be a family.” He squeezed my hands.
His confession sucked the air from my lungs. I didn’t know what to say. I wanted it too, but…
He placed a finger to my lips. “You don’t have to answer now. Just…give me a chance to show you how good we could be together—and not just in bed. Say yes to one date.”
I’d never had a man treat me like Preston did, never had a man make me feel like he did. He grounded me, gave me a sense of home. A sense of security more than money had ever provided. So, despite my reservations and my fears, I found myself agreeing.
His answering smile was brilliant. “You have no idea how happy that makes me. How happy you make me.”
I pressed my lips to his. “Keep talking like that, and we really are going to skip the date and jump straight into bed.”
When I leaned forward for another kiss and he backed away, I pouted. He gave me a cheeky smirk. “Don’t worry, we’ll still have plenty of time for that. Now—” He placed his hands on my shoulders, spinning me around. “Go upstairs and get ready.” He smacked me on the butt, and I gasped, jumping away with a big grin.
“I have to know where we’re going, so I can dress appropriately.”
He backed toward the glass doors that led to the pool house. “There are two choices, with accessories for you, upstairs.”
My jaw dropped. “What? When did you have time to do all this?”
He smirked. “No more questions. Up you go. I’ll meet you back here at seven.”
I hurried up the stairs to my room, eager to see what Preston had planned. He’d clearly put a lot of thought into this date, and he’d expected me to say yes. I liked a man with confidence, and he certainly had it in spades. But it wasn’t the arrogance or cockiness of so many other men; it was a quiet confidence. And that was one of the sexiest things about him.
In my closet, there were two choices as promised. I’d wondered why he’d been so insistent on selecting my outfit, but I realized the moment I saw the vintage 1920s dresses. They were both so beautiful, so elegant. So glamorous.
I fingered the beading of the black flapper dress, tempted to pick it because it was classic—safe. But something about the gold sequined dress called to me, tempting me like the Hollywood screen sirens I wanted to emulate. And I had the perfect set of lingerie, a lace-trimmed silk bra and matching panties with a garter belt.
I took my time getting ready, watching a few YouTube tutorials for my hair and makeup. When I finally slipped into the dress, I could feel the rightness of my decision settle over me like the silk lining gliding over my skin. When I glanced in the mirror, I almost didn’t recognize the woman smiling back at me. I’d certainly undergone an outward transformation, but it was the inner one that surprised me most.
I was happy—more than happy, I was glowing. And it was all thanks to Preston. He’d given Sophia and me the support we’d been lacking, making us feel more like a family than ever. And he’d given me a confidence boost I hadn’t realized I needed. He made me feel incredible—like I could conquer anything.
I’d told Lauren this was nothing more than a fling, but I knew it was a lie. And that only became more apparent when I descended the stairs, the gold sequins swishing with every step. Preston stood at the bottom, peering up at me with such adoration and love, it had my heart careening down the stairs ahead of me.
I gripped the railing for support, pausing at the second to last step as I took him in. This was a moment I never wanted to forget. He stood tall, projecting confidence and sexuality. His black tuxedo seemed like it had been made for him. His hair had been combed to one side, and he looked like an actor straight off the set of The Great Gatsby.
In that moment, I imagined myself walking down the aisle to him in a white dress. And the idea that I’d not only fallen for him, but could envision myself marrying him, terrified me. This wasn’t reality; it was fantasy. And while it might be fun for a night, or even a summer, I knew it wouldn’t last. Nothing ever did.
But for the first time, maybe ever, I found myself wanting to believe it could. That it would.
Chapter Sixteen
Alexis turned back to smile at me as we walked through the gilded doors to the club, to an era when alcohol was prohibited but jazz reigned supreme. It felt like we’d stepped back in time. Everything from the light fixtures to the bar to the entertainment looked so authentic, it was impossible to know what was real and what was a replica. And the costumes were incredible—everyone was dressed to impress, including Alexis.
Kate had helped me select the two dresses, and while I liked both, I’d secretly hoped Alexis would choose the gold sequined one. I knew it would look flawless against her bronzed skin, showcasing her natural beauty. And I wasn’t wrong.
I smiled down at her, relishing the feel of my hand on her lower back. To an outsider, it was nothing more than a simple gesture. But to me, it was a huge step forward in building a relationship with her. Toward being a couple and not just a fling.
“This is incredible,” she said, and I had to agree.
The interior of the club was massive, spanning two stories. Despite its large size, it retained a cozy, intimate feel thanks to the dark wood paneling. Large chandeliers glittered overhead, adding to the air of glamour and opulence. Everywhere I looked, there was something new to appreciate—intricately paneled ceilings and elevator doors, a long bar with bartenders dressed in period costume. Every detail had been considered, giving the club an amazing sense of authenticity.
“The couples—the way they move together. It’s mesmerizing,” Alexis said, drawing my attention to her.
Her eyes were glued to the front of the club, where couples spun, stepped, and flipped their way across the parquet floor, trying to one-up each other as they moved to the lively beat. And the band on stage was just as captivating, each musician performing with amazing skill and passion.
“It is,” I agreed, though I was looking at her when I said it.
She was the most incredible woman I’d ever met, and I was still trying to wrap my head around the fact that she was here, with me. I’d meant what I’d said earlier—I wanted a future with her, her and Sophia. And I hoped this date was just the beginning. I’d half expected her to say no, so the fact that she’d agreed was encouraging.
“Why don’t we grab a table, and then we can do some dancing?”
She nodded, allowing me to lead her over to one of the empty booths lining the dance floor. I opened the drink menu, trying not to cringe at the prices. Fortunately, the tickets had been relatively cheap. But between the costumes, an Uber, and now drinks and dinner, my bank account was bleeding cash like the gangsters in the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre.
Still, I wouldn’t trade this time—this opportunity to show Alexis what we could be like as a couple—for anything. Even if it meant I’d have to take on another job to afford my looming tuition bill. But I wasn’t going to think about it tonight. Tonight was about Alexis and me and our future.
“I can’t believe I’ve lived in LA all these years and have never been here,” she said.
“Well, you’ve been busy—building an empire, raising a child.”
“True, but this would be a great place to br
ing clients or even to celebrate our year-end with the brokerage.”
I grinned. “I’m glad you like it so much. I hoped you would.”
The waiter returned with our drinks, then took our order before disappearing once more. I held up my glass to toast, and Alexis did the same. “To taking chances and making love.”
She laughed, her cheeks blushing with color. “Hear, hear.”
We clinked our glasses together. She took a sip of her drink, closing her eyes to savor the flavors. “You have to try this Singapore Sling. It’s delicious.”
“Here.” I slid my glass over to her. “Want to try mine?”
She took a sip, drawing my eyes to the long column of her throat. “Mmm. That is good. What’s in it again?”
“Fresh mint, Pimm’s, and lemon-lime soda.”
“It’s refreshing. I like it.” She slid it back across the table, taking her own drink back.
“What do you think Sophia’s doing right now?”
Alexis laughed. “I love that you asked—such a parent thing to do. To finally have a night out, but you’re missing your kid.”
“I do miss her,” I said, sliding my hand over Alexis’s. “I’m glad we get to have some alone time, but she’s become a big part of my life.”
She nodded, but I couldn’t decipher her expression. “She’s become very attached to you.”
The waiter returned with our food, and it was just as delicious as the cocktails.
“She’s a good kid,” I said, cutting into my salmon.
“Completely spoiled,” Alexis joked between bites. “But yeah, she’s a good kid.”
“I still can’t quite wrap my head around her birthday party. The other day, she told me there was going to be a real-live mermaid in the pool.” I chuckled, trying to imagine it.
Alexis rolled her eyes. “That was Juliana’s idea. She thought we could hire an actress to dress as a mermaid for the afternoon. Apparently, it’s the in thing right now.”
“Still,” I said, taking a bite of my salmon. “I can remember my birthday parties as a kid, and they were pretty low-key affairs. Some basic decorations in the backyard, maybe a bounce house—if I was lucky—and a homemade cake.”
She leaned back against the booth, taking a sip of her drink and meeting my gaze over the rim of the glass. “It might seem over the top, but it’s what’s expected.”
I jerked my head back. “Expected?”
“Yes, Preston—expected.” Her tone was stern, and I could see the passion blazing in her eyes. “I vowed that my children would always have what everyone else did. That they would never be made fun of for their clothes or where they live. And birthday parties are a big deal.”
I frowned, wondering what Alexis’s childhood had been like. She never mentioned her parents, and I realized I’d never met any of Sophia’s grandparents. Even if they lived out of state, it seemed unusual that Sophia never talked about them either.
Now wasn’t the time to ask, especially not when the waiter returned with dessert. Alexis had ordered the mixed berries, which were served in a martini glass with a mint leaf. And while they looked delicious, I saw her eyeing my tiramisu.
I remembered Sophia’s comment about Alexis never eating dessert. And I wondered why she denied herself something she so clearly wanted.
My fork slid through the creamy layers, and I scooted closer so I was sitting next to her. I held up the fork to her lips. She kept her mouth firmly closed even as she stared at the tiramisu with longing.
“Just one bite.” I gave her a devilish grin. “You know you want to.”
She stared at the dessert a moment longer before finally parting her lips. The moment it hit her tongue, she closed her eyes and moaned with pleasure.
I leaned in, pressing my lips to the sensitive spot behind her ear. “Better be careful,” I rasped, drawing in a hit of her delicate perfume. “Or I’ll be eating you for dessert.”
She tipped her head back, which only encouraged me to place kisses down the column of her neck. She smelled of jasmine and sunshine and home. And I wanted to lose myself in her forever.
I slid my nose up her neck, along her cheek so that my lips were grazing the shell of her ear. “Mm,” I hummed. “Maybe just a taste.”
I’d expected her to say no, to protest, but instead, she parted her legs ever so slightly. Maybe it was the dimly lit club or the atmosphere that seemed to encourage hedonism. Or maybe she was finally ready to embrace that we were happening. Whatever it was, Alexis appeared to have shed her inhibitions tonight, and I was all for it.
The club was dark, and no one was paying us any attention. I slid my hand up the smooth skin of her thigh, pausing when I came to a narrow band of fabric.
“Fuck,” I groaned. “A garter belt?”
She bit her lip and nodded. I caressed her skin, moving her panties aside so I could delve beneath them. Though she tried to maintain a calm façade, her hand gripped my thigh, her nails digging in. I swiped my finger over her slickness, then placed it in my mouth, loving the taste of her more than any dessert.
“Delicious.”
Her eyes were hooded as she watched me. “You’re such a tease.”
“You’re one to talk.” I leaned back against the booth, placing my arm on the cushion behind her.
She held a hand to her chest. “Me? A tease?”
“Mm-hmm. Those yoga sessions on the lawn in front of the pool house. You knew what you were doing.”
She laughed.
“Inviting me to work out with you.” I peered down my nose at her.
“Just trying to make sure you have everything you need.”
I held her chin between my fingers, leaning in close enough so my lips brushed against hers when I spoke. “The only thing I need is you.”
“Can I get you anything else?” the waiter asked, suddenly appearing.
I turned to him and forced a smile. “Just the check, please.”
When he returned with the check, Alexis reached for it. “Don’t even think about it,” I teased, placing my hand over hers. “This is on me.”
“Preston.” I sensed her hesitation.
I shook my head. “I’m a bit traditional when it comes to dates, I’m afraid. I invited you, which means I pay.”
“Yeah, but…” She studied me with concern. “Are you sure? I really don’t mind.”
She released her grip on the check, and I slid the bill before me. “Positive.”
As she settled back into her chair, I could tell something was on her mind. Still, I paid and left a generous tip, eager to get her out on the dance floor.
I stood, holding out my hand for her. “You ready?”
“I don’t know. Are you going to step on my feet? I’m rather fond of these gorgeous T-strap shoes.” She drew up the hem of her dress, pivoting one of her feet to give me a better look. “Where did you get them, by the way?”
“First of all,” I said, helping her out of the booth and twirling her into my arms so her back was against my front. “I’m not going to step on your toes.”
I spun her back out, enjoying the look of surprise on her face. “And secondly, I have a friend who works at a costume shop that caters to period films.”
“Let me guess—Kate?” she asked, and I nodded. “Tell her she has good taste.” She smiled, and unlike the last time we discussed Kate, I sensed no jealousy, no…reservations.
I led Alexis out to the dance floor, standing tall as I pulled her into my arms. She’d attracted the attention of other men all evening, but she didn’t even seem to notice.
We spun and swayed, and I could honestly say it was the best date I’d ever been on. And the fact that Alexis hadn’t glanced at her phone once all evening told me she was enjoying herself too. She rarely put it down, even at home. Though I’d noticed her trying to make more of an effort lately to unplug. I didn’t know whether it was at my suggestion or just an attempt to spend more time with Sophia, but I was glad.
When we finally
made it home hours later, my feet ached and my cheeks hurt from smiling so much. As she led me toward the stairs, our fingers intertwined, I asked, “What are three things you’re thankful for today?”
She paused at the bottom step, turned to face me, and smiled. “Nate.” I growled, but she merely laughed. “For giving us this opportunity to be together.”
I lifted my chin as understanding dawned on me. “Good. I was wondering why you were listing another man as your first item.”
She cupped my cheek. “You’re the only man I want.”
Her eyes were filled with such a look of adoration, I felt emboldened. “What else?”
“Sophia. And you, of course. What about you?” She smoothed her hands over the lapels of my tuxedo.
“How about three words, instead?” My heart was pounding so fast, I was positive she could hear it clanging against my ribs. I’d been holding it in so long, I was afraid I’d burst if I didn’t say it. “I love you.”
We stood there for a moment as if frozen in time, and I was afraid I’d made a terrible mistake. Even if she didn’t say it back, I couldn’t bring myself to regret telling her how I felt.
“Preston.” She stared at my chest, gripping my lapels. Every second seemed to stretch for hours, and I held my breath, awaiting her answer. When she finally met my eyes, I braced myself for rejection.
Shit. I’d pushed for too much, too soon. I’d been convinced she felt the same, or maybe I’d just wanted so badly for her to feel the same about me.
“It’s okay,” I rushed to add. “You don’t have to say it back. I just…needed you to know.”
She pulled me to her, fusing her lips to mine. I told myself even though she couldn’t say the words, I knew she felt them. For now, I’d have to be content to let her actions do the talking.
Chapter Seventeen
“Mommy?”
I dropped Sophia’s duffel bag at the foot of the stairs. For one night away, she sure had a lot of stuff.
“Yes, baby.”
“What’s a cougar?”
“You know what a cougar is,” I said. She’d known so many animals by name by the age of two, I wondered why she was asking. “You mean the big cat—wildlife?”
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