by Layla Hagen
Alex backs down. “I’ll email you tomorrow, Nadine.”
When we’re out, I elbow Logan. “Why did you tell him we’re having lunch?”
“First, because I was going to ask you to have lunch with me.”
My heart bounces at his invitation. Spending more time with him than I thought is a definite bonus... or a dangerous move, depending how you look at it.
“Second, because you should stay away from him. I told you he was a womanizer.”
“I wasn’t going to go with him, but I don’t appreciate you answering for me.”
He nods, running his fingers through his hair. It gives him a disheveled appearance, as if he’d just woken up... or did something else in bed. I let out a sigh, remembering how long it’s been since I’ve been intimate with a man.
“I’m sorry, I can be overbearing sometimes,” Logan says.
I blink, jerking my head back. What is this? A man who admits when he’s wrong? Well, that earns him a bonus point in my books, which isn’t helping, because he already has too many points. Not that I’ll tell him that. Not yet, anyway.
“Apology accepted. So, where are you taking me to lunch?”
Logan grins. “I still get to take you out? I’m a lucky guy.”
“I like a man who’s confident enough to admit his mistakes.”
Tilting his head to one side, he leans forward slightly. “And I bet you love a man who gives you good food.”
“Awfully presumptuous of you.”
“Not really. I saw you eat last night and this morning. Your appetite is delicious.” He leans in to me until his lips are only inches away from mine. His scent invades my senses, jumbling my thoughts, and I take a step back to clear my head. Logan pins me with his gaze, raising the corners of his mouth in a challenge. This man is intense and, by God, I can’t get enough.
“Let’s see what you’ll feed me, Mr. Bennett.”
“You like French food? Besides croissants?”
“I love it.”
I remind myself of all the reasons I should keep my distance. For one, he’s going to be Ava’s brother-in-law. If things between him and me turned weird, that could make family gatherings unpleasant, and I really like the Bennetts. The most important reason, though, is that I need to focus on my business. There is simply too much at stake. I can’t let anything—or anyone—distract me, much less a man. Last time I did, I lost everything.
I shouldn’t flirt back; I really shouldn’t. Then I notice Logan’s dimples, and I know I don’t stand a chance. I’m a goner.
***
After a short drive in Logan’s car, we arrive at a cozy restaurant. The inside walls are covered almost entirely in wood paneling displaying intricate carvings. Small crystal chandeliers hang from the ceiling, spreading a warm light throughout the restaurant. Pictures with various French sights hang on the walls.
Our hands touch briefly as we walk to a table. A jolt of need courses through me and my nipples grow sensitive, pressing against my soft, sheer lace bra. I peek at Logan, searching for any signs that I’m affecting him as powerfully as he does me. He seems completely at ease at first sight, but when we sit down, his eyes are darker than before. I draw in a sharp breath, averting my gaze.
Thankfully, the waiter arrives, cutting the tension. We order drinks quickly, but since it’s a French restaurant, they boast an impressive list of quiches. I can’t decide which one I want. In the end, we order four different types, even though it’s just the two of us.
“Tell me about your love for fashion. How did it start?” Logan asks after the waiter leaves. The tension clears from the air, even though I’m quite aware of the continued throbbing in the peaks of my breasts. Logan’s eyes are still dark.
“Like most girls, I liked to dress up my dolls. I guess I never outgrew the phase. When I was in high school, I started sewing my clothing. I didn’t have a style, and went through several experimental stages until I found it.” Sewing was also an escape for me during those hard years. I could pretend I was someone else when I was creating a new piece of clothing.
“I’d love to see pics of that.”
“Oh, no, trust me, you don’t. Anyway, eventually I realized I wanted to make evening dresses, and I’ve stuck with that ever since.”
“It’s a great niche,” Logan comments. “High price, low volume.”
I laugh. “You sound like Ava. She gave me a lot of insights as I put my business plan together, and she’s my very first customer. I’m designing her wedding dress.” I’ve been bursting with pride since Ava asked me to do it. Not only will I be her designer, but also her maid of honor.
“She told me. If you want a second opinion on that business plan, I’d be happy to look over it.”
“Thank you. I’ll be displaying my designs, along with some well-known designers. If I only sell my dresses, no one will come.”
“That’s smart.”
“Yeah, and also costly. The inventory alone will be a fortune. I can’t believe my childhood dream is finally happening.”
“Great to see you stuck with it. Did you ever want to give up?”
I remain silent, debating whether I should tell him about Thomas. Except for Ava and my parents, I haven’t told many people. Logan seems so easy to talk to, though.
“I almost gave up twice.” In quick words, I tell him my story. “I waitressed while studying in New York, and had a nice sum by the time I graduated. The plan was to open a small shop there. But my mom and stepdad lost their jobs, and they needed my help, so I gave it to them. My stepdad had used all his savings paying my college so I wouldn’t get in debt. I couldn’t afford New York anymore, so I moved back to my small hometown in North Carolina, and got a job there. That was the first time I flirted with the idea of giving up.” Remembering that terrible time, I can’t help but feel proud of myself. “But I manned up, got a second job—waitressing again—and started saving once more.”
“You’re tough.” He doesn’t say this with surprise, but with a mix of awe and curiosity.
“Afterward, I met Thomas, my ex. We were working at the same company. They started downsizing, and they fired him. He couldn’t find a job, so he decided to open his own business: a car wash.”
“Tell me you didn’t give him your savings.” Logan’s harsh voice makes me flinch.
I smile sadly. “I did. It was supposed to be a loan. Half a year later, I was fired and struggled to find a job. Thomas made it clear he wouldn’t support me financially. When I asked him about my savings, he threw in my face that we didn’t have a contract. I broke up with him.” My eyes burn, all traces of pride gone. Shame overcomes me. “I was so stupid and so trusting,” I whisper to myself. Clearing my throat, I add in a strong voice, “That was two years ago. I worked three jobs until I moved here. I’ll make it this time, and I won’t owe anyone anything.”
“I’m sure you will. Let’s get one thing straight. You were not stupid. The person you love is someone you’re supposed to trust.” An endearing fire flickers in his eyes. “If there’s something I hate more than people taking advantage of others, it’s if they get away with it.”
“We’re not talking about me now, right?”
“No. My sister recently divorced her leper of a husband.”
“I’ve heard, but I don’t know the details.”
“I’ll give you the Cliff’s Notes. He married her for her money. Sebastian and I made him sign a prenup. If they divorced before their tenth anniversary, he wouldn’t receive a penny. They divorced before their fourth.”
“That’s great; it means he walked away with no money.”
“No, but he hurt my sister, and the law isn’t punishing that.”
I’m touched that he cares so much about his family.
“If I run into that asshole again—”
I sit up straight. “Woah, relax, Batman. You can’t be the silent protector, making your justice. Sometimes, you have to forgive and move on. Otherwise, you’re wasting your energ
y with people who’re not worth it.”
It suddenly dawns on me that the scene in Alex’s office wasn’t a display of manhood, at least not on Logan’s part. This man protects fiercely, and loves the same way too. It fills me with joy that I’ve been the object of his protection.
“Right. I believe we were sidetracked. We were talking about your shop and love for fashion. You didn’t study fashion, though, did you?”
“No. It felt unsafe. I majored in accounting. I hope I’ll never have to work as an accountant again, but if the store doesn’t work out, I’ll go back to doing that. My last boss said I’m welcome back anytime.”
Logan stiffens at this. “Why not search for a job as an accountant here?”
“An accountant’s salary has a greater purchasing power there than in San Francisco.” I don’t tell him about my plan to look after my parents. Sharing that is too personal.
Logan puts his hand over mine on the table as if sensing my turmoil. If his touch was meant to reassure me, he succeeded. If it was also intended to send my hormones into disarray, he excelled. Being around Logan is consuming; my entire body buzzes with life and need around him.
“You won’t fail, Nadine. You have passion, you have drive, and you have a plan. It’s by no means foolproof, but it’s as close as it gets.”
“You sure know how to make a girl feel good.”
“Trust me, you haven’t seen anything.” His voice is low and raspy all of a sudden. “I can make a girl feel really good.”
I swallow a mouthful of quiche. “Did this discussion turn to sex?”
“Actually, I was thinking about a round of double dessert, but we can talk about sex. It’s one of my favorite topics. I’m an expert on it.”
I laugh. I cannot help it. “Is that so?”
“I don’t mean to brag, but women’s opinions have been unanimous on this.”
I decide to play his game. “You shouldn’t believe everything you’re told.”
“Oh, I wasn’t told. I can tell just by observing a woman how good a time she’s having with me.”
For someone who hasn’t had sex for a long time, his words are like fuel to the fire. I can imagine how his lips would touch mine. I cross my legs to quench the sudden ache between my thighs. I’m already fantasizing about what he could do with his hands on my body, and that’s very bad.
“We got sidetracked again,” I say.
“I’m thoroughly enjoying the new topic.” Logan flashes me a smile full of mischief.
Despite myself, I return an equally naughty smile. “Shouldn’t you be serious and grumpy all the time? You’re the CFO, after all. Chief Financial Officer. I thought grumpiness came with the job description.”
“It’s required very often when people piss me off, as is the obligatory stick up my ass.”
“So I have the privilege of seeing the fun side of you.”
“Exactly. I can be Chief Fun Officer for you.”
Laughter bubbles out of my throat, my entire body relaxing. “You are funny.”
“I'm insulted by the surprise in your voice.”
“I meant it as a compliment,” I assure him.
“I wonder what a real insult would sound like.” He winks at me good-naturedly. “Unfortunately, I can’t stay longer. I have a meeting in an hour.” His eyes don’t leave mine as he asks the waiter for the check. Stubbornly, I keep his gaze until my cheeks heat up, and then I break the eye contact.
“What are you doing this afternoon?” he asks as we leave the restaurant. “Do you want me to drive you anywhere?”
“No, thanks. I’ll walk around the city, checking out the competition.”
“I meant what I said about your business plan. If you want another opinion, I’m happy to help. Also, once Alex sends you locations, I’d like to come with you to see them.”
“Why are you so interested?”
Logan stops in front of me, putting his hands on my arms as if it’s the most natural thing in the world. I lick my lips.
“I know what it’s like to be a founder. If I’m honest, I miss the excitement of those early years. It was fun, mostly because I was building something with my brother. You’re doing this on your own in a new city. I don’t want you to feel alone here.”
His words hit a nerve. Loneliness is something I grew accustomed to after my split from Thomas, and I like spending time with myself. But moving across the country to a place where I only know Ava is a different story. I didn’t want to go back to New York. I wanted something new.
“Very considerate of you. You’re welcome to join me on the shop hunting, but I have one condition.” I hold up a forefinger.
Logan narrows his eyes as we reach his car. “I’m listening.”
“I want two croissants next time.”
“Feisty. I like you more with every passing second. Call me when you have something.” His gaze lingers on my lips for the briefest of moments before snapping up to meet my eyes. “I’ll probably see you before that too. My family likes you.”
He leans in to me, kissing my cheek. At the same time, he presses his palm against the small of my back, and all my senses explode. The innocent kiss turns into something almost sinful as he lingers with his cheek against mine for a few seconds. His hand at my back feels incredibly intimate, and his smell. Oh, God, he’s too much. I swear the air between us sizzles. When he finally pulls back, my knees are weak. With a wink, he climbs into his driver’s seat.
I look after his car until it’s out of sight, gathering my faculties. Focus on your business, Nadine. Focus. Repeating this mantra does nothing to calm my racing pulse, though. This man can make me smile, swoon, and have the hots for him all in the span of minutes.
Logan Bennett will be the death of me.
Chapter Four
Logan
I have been known to decide one thing and do the complete opposite, but deciding to stay away from a woman then flirting like there’s no tomorrow with her is new even for me. Obviously, I can’t control myself around Nadine. When I kissed her cheek, I damn near took her mouth too. I wanted nothing more than to pin her against my car and kiss her blind. That was on Monday. Today is Friday, and I’m still thinking about the non-kiss. Her scent of oranges is branded in my senses now.
A subtle vibration from my smartphone alerts me to a message.
Pippa: Sorry, won’t make it to lunch.
My jaw ticks. I’m going to have to eat both portions of Chinese food I ordered to be delivered to my office. Tapping my fingers on my desk, I search through my emails, expecting one from Ava. She was supposed to send me a report half an hour ago. I don’t find it, so I text her.
Logan: Where’s the report I asked for?
Ava: I left a print copy on my desk, forgot to email it to you. Can’t do it now. I don’t have access to my laptop.
Logan: Where are you?
Ava: Sebastian and I are meeting the wedding planner.
Right, Sebastian did mention that. My assistant is off for lunch, so I go to Ava’s office myself to find the report on her desk. To my surprise, there’s someone inside. I recognize her immediately, even though all I see is her back. A smell of oranges lingers in the air. Nadine’s staring out the window, giving me a chance to observe her. Fuck, she’s sexy, wearing a white, figure-hugging dress, a red jacket on her arm. Her round ass is particularly perfect.
“Nadine.”
She turns around, her eyes widening in surprise as I walk into the office. God, she’s beautiful. And just like that, my control slides away. The more she talks, the more my resolve to keep my distance from her weakens.
“What are you doing here?” I ask her.
“Waiting for Ava to go to lunch. She was supposed to meet me in her office.” Nadine taps her foot, her lips forming a thin line. She’s adorable.
“Ava’s not in the building. She and Sebastian are meeting the wedding planner.”
Nadine frowns. “What?” Pulling out her phone, she dials furiously before pressin
g it to her ear. “Hi, Ava. I’m waiting in your office. We planned to eat lunch together.” There’s a small pause, and then Nadine groans. “You forgot?”
I pick up the report, pretending to look through it, disguising my smile. Ava never forgets anything. She’s an organizational genius. She did this on purpose.
Nadine finishes the conversation in a clipped tone.
“My best friend stood me up. She has a good excuse, though. Wedding stuff.” As our gazes meet, I’m confident Nadine doesn’t buy the excuse any more than I do. Pippa canceled on me, Ava on Nadine. This smells of a setup. “I’ll have to join them in a few of those meetings. As the maid of honor.” Her eyes light up as she says the last words, and she squares her shoulder with pride. Damn, she’s so cute. I’d love nothing more than to kiss that sinful mouth of hers.
A recognition hits home. As Ava’s friend and maid of honor, she’ll soon become one of our closest family friends. Dating family friends is not a good idea. Daniel did that, and things went wrong, fast. If I date her for a while, even if we break up amicably, it will still be awkward at family gatherings. Nadine deserves to be happy here. I can’t mess that up.
“I’ll go,” Nadine says. “Lots to do.”
I open my mouth to say okay, and something else comes out instead. “Stay.”
She peers at me from behind her eyelashes with uncertain eyes. Her chest heaves up and down, red splotches appearing on her cheeks and neck. Finally, she looks away, licking her lips. Jesus. She’s fighting this as much as I am. Who’ll give in first?
“I’ll grab a sandwich on the way. I have a lot to do,” she murmurs. “It’s better that Ava couldn’t make it. That way, I can check more things off my to-do list today.”
“Take it easy, you don’t have to do everything at once,” I say, remembering how crazy those days when Sebastian and I started out were.
“I don’t mind hard work,” she responds.
“Of course you don’t.”
It shouldn’t surprise me, but since we’ve made it big, I’ve met plenty of entitled people. They expect things to be handed to them. Nadine works hard, and she got back on track after every setback. She’s a fighter, and I love that. I respect that.
