by Conn, Claudy
“Ladies and gentlemen, if you would be seated now, we’d like to start serving dinner,” the master of ceremonies said through a mic.
Great timing. Nick rubbed a hand over his face and went to his table. He’d figure out a way to speak to her.
He took his chair and grimaced at the salad on his plate, having lost his appetite about the same time he lost track of True. After greeting the people at his table, he pushed the greens and toppings around with a fork.
He poured himself a glass of red wine and took a drink. He spotted True at her table and choked on his wine. Easley was sitting next to her. The bastard had his arm resting on the back of her chair. The only thing saving the man from Nick kicking his ass here in front of everyone was the fact that True was leaning away from him, talking to her friend, Amy—and that Easley wasn’t actually touching her. Okay, so Nick wouldn’t have to rip the guy’s fucking arm off.
He knew exactly how to get True to sit next to him without taking a chance on Easley causing a scene like last night. The idea hit like a lightning bolt, bringing a smile to his lips. His appetite returned and he scooped a forkful of salad and made small talk with his tablemates. Things were looking up. The sooner he finished his meal, the sooner he’d put his plan into action.
After the main course was finished, the servers bussed the tables and Nick pulled a waiter aside. “I’d like an extra chair and desert beside me.”
The lights lowered and Nick made his way up to the podium for his speech. After a few jokes and a quick update on the company’s future, it was time for a few thank-yous. He made them, saving the best for last.
“And finally, I’d like to thank the person responsible for putting this wonderful party together for us tonight. Let’s give it up for True Kelly.”
Talk about another deer-in-the-headlights moment. True shook her head and sank back into her chair. Amy, who was sitting next to her, stood and pulled her up, patting True on the back. Easley, on the other side, stood and had the balls to lean toward True as if to plant a kiss on her cheek.
No fucking way. Nick fisted his hands and started to step away from the podium, ready to put that ass-wipe in his place. He didn’t make it far. True twisted away and held a hand up to block Easley. His attempted kiss missed its target—big time. A flush crept across Easley’s face and he plopped back down, his face growing redder by the second.
The man had better keep his ass in his chair.
“Come on up, True. We have a small gift for you.” Some kind of plaque Adam’s assistant insisted they give her. If it’d been up to Nick, it would’ve been jewelry. Something big with lots of carats. True was the kind of woman who didn’t need jewels to enhance her beauty, though she certainly deserved to be swathed in diamonds.
A vision of True wearing nothing but strands of diamonds made his cock ache. The things that woman could do to him without even trying…
Everyone stood and clapped as True made her way to the stage. Her chin dipped downward, but it wasn’t enough to hide her red-tinged cheeks. He hadn’t meant to embarrass her, but damned if she didn’t wear the look well.
She tugged at her dress several times, holding the sexy thigh-high slit together. Nick loved that fuckin’ split and the way it showed off her goddess-like leg. True looked so damn hot right now, he wasn’t sure he’d be able to keep his hands off of her any more than Easley had.
Would True blow him off the way she had Easley? Was she still angry about last night?
Chapter Seven
True couldn’t believe Nick had made her stand up and be recognized for putting the party together. How embarrassing. Then again, it was nothing compared to him calling her up on stage to receive a gift or the fight he and Brad had had last night. And poor Brad. She hadn’t meant to shun him in front of the whole room, but he’d caught her off guard. He’d latched onto her within minutes of her arrival and insisted they sit at the same table. They were not a couple and never would be. Until True got her emotions back in the range of normal, she was not couple material. She inched her way to the stage, the applause nothing but a loud humming in her ears. Hands reached out to congratulate her as she passed by. Each time someone patted her arm or back, she flinched and prayed it wasn’t a man touching her. What were meant to be kind gestures felt more like a thousand needles pricking her skin.
Why had she ever let Amy talk her into this dress? She may as well be naked. It wasn’t easy trying to navigate through a crowded room while clutching the dress together. She was about to be put on display and dreaded it.
Nick waited at the steps and offered his hand to help her onto the stage. His touch didn’t make her cringe. Something about him made her feel safe. She used to think it was because of the way he seemed to hate her. Now, every time he was close, his eyes went dark with blatant desire. The way they had seven years ago. The hard lines of his face softened as he took her hand.
It reminded her of the look he’d sent her when she’d entered the party earlier. Her insides had melted and she’d run for cover. He’d kept an eye on her and Brad all through dinner. If looks could kill, poor Brad would be dead now. And she would be naked. Sometime between the salad and the main course, Nick’s gaze had all but undressed her.
“True?” Nick nudged her.
A quick glance down assured True her clothes were still in place. Yep, his gaze was that real. That strong. And that sexy.
“Yes,” she squeaked out.
His hand covered the mic. “Say something to your co-workers, please.”
She leaned into the mic. “Ah, sorry. I’m afraid Mr. Cantrell has caught me off-guard. I appreciate the applause and kind words, but I must share it with my committee. Please stand when I say your name.” She announced the short list. “If you could share the applause with them, I’d appreciate it.”
Nick handed her a small box and she unwrapped it and held up the gift. “It’s a beautiful glass plaque. I love it. Thank you so much.” She placed it back inside the box. “Now please stay for dessert and dancing. Don’t forget to let Mr. Cantrell know how much you enjoy his generosity.”
The music started, and before she could walk away, Nick’s warm hand took hers. “I’ve had the wait staff bring a chair and dessert for you at my table. Please join me.”
She rubbed her bare arms. “Actually, I was going to go home.”
“Nonsense. We’re having dessert and I’m going to try my best to get you onto the dance floor.” He lightly cuffed her wrist and walked her to his table. He pulled out a chair for her. “Sit, True. And please quit looking like I’m about to devour you instead of this amazing piece of cheese cake.” He leaned over and placed his mouth near her ear. “Try it.”
His breath tickled as it blew against her ear, sending shivers through her body. Her nipples peaked and she couldn’t resist checking how they appeared through her flimsy dress.
Well, crap.
Nick’s gaze followed the same path. “Nice.”
True kicked him beneath the table and covered her breasts by crossing her arms. Only Nick could’ve said those words without sending her into a full-blown panic attack.
“Don’t do that. You look sexy as hell. Now eat.” He uncrossed her arms and fed her a bite of cheese cake with his fingers, then took a one for himself.
“I can feed myself.”
“I know, but this is so much more fun. Don’t you agree?”
God, yes she agreed. “Your employees are watching. What will they think?”
“That sitting here with you makes me happy.”
“It’s nice, Nick, but I don’t want people thinking I slept my way into my job.”
“You’re right.” He backed off and handed her the fork.
“I’m not sure what to say. After throwing myself at you in the parking lot last night, I would think you’d prefer me to keep my distance. I acted like a crazy woman.” That little surge of power and taking control of her life had been an epic fail.
“I rather liked that woman. And sh
e’s not crazy. Please don’t keep her locked away too long.” He ran the back of his hand down her cheek. “I could’ve killed Easley for interrupting us, and I’m sorry if our fight embarrassed you.”
“Brad’s timing kept us from making a mistake. We work together. You’re my boss.” She took his hand and placed it on the table. “Mistake. Isn’t that what you called being friends with me?”
“I apologized for that comment.” He kept his hands on the table.
“You did,” True mumbled around a bite of cheese cake. “I’m sure that was very hard for you. I appreciate it.”
“It doesn’t matter. I want you, and unless I’m reading the signals wrong, you want me, too.” He balled a napkin in his hands. The worst decision of my life was letting you go seven years ago. I want another chance.”
She wanted him all right. But what were the chances she wouldn’t fall apart and run if he tried to make love to her? “I’m a different woman now than I was back then. I need time to work through a few things.”
“Is it Easley? Do you have a relationship with him?”
“Heavens, no. He’s barely a friend.” A friend who wanted more. She looked at the table where she and Amy had sat for dinner. Brad was gone. “I’m not involved with anyone.”
“Good.” Nick scooted his chair back and took her by the hand. “Let’s dance.”
“Now?”
“The DJ won’t be here tomorrow.” His grin was contagious and she laughed, letting him draw her to the dance floor. “Besides, the first dance always goes to the boss.”
Her last boss had thought he deserved special privileges, too. Her chest tightened, but only for a second. The warmth from Nick’s hand at the small of her back seeped through her dress and True focused on the way he held her as they danced. His touch was non-threatening. Nothing like Scott’s. In fact, it was calming. She was safe with Nick.
After a few fast songs, the DJ played a slow one. Nick danced her toward a dark corner. After slowing their pace to a standstill, he cupped one side of her face and she leaned into his touch. “True, can I kiss you?”
She looked around and no one was near them. “Yes. I’d like that.”
He kissed her—or maybe… she kissed him. Either way, it was perfect. He pulled her closer. So close, she could see the strong beat of his heart pulsing in his neck. His breath skimmed over her hair and his erection strained against her belly. She waited for thoughts of Scott’s attack and the usual panic that followed to come.
Instead, all she felt was desire. A warmth rushed through her and settled between her legs. She wanted Nick more than she’d ever wanted any man in her life. She always had. But would want and need be enough to get her through the act of making love without falling apart?
True belonged in his arms. She was a perfect fit. What the hell had he been thinking when he’d chosen making a successful company over her? The only thing he could blame it on was his lack of maturity. If he won her back, he’d never let her go again. Everything about this woman was flawless. Nick inhaled her scent, vanilla and spice all rolled into one. Her hands were small and delicate. He couldn’t remember ever feeling such soft skin on another woman. He’d stolen a few kisses while they’d danced. Her taste was pure heaven and he couldn’t wait to get his lips on the rest of her.
“Nick, we need to return to the main dance floor.” True said on a breathy moan.
“Whatever you want, baby. I understand.” He led them into the crowd, but never released her hand.
They’d been dancing for at least thirty minutes. Eventually, he’d have to let her go, but the thought of not having her in his arms didn’t set well. Still, he’d be an ass if he didn’t at least offer her a break.
“Do you want to get a drink and sit for a while?”
“This feels pretty good.” She tightened her hold on him. “Like you said, the DJ won’t be here tomorrow.”
“We could sneak away and—”
A firm tap on his shoulder interrupted their dance.
Brad Easley stood there with a cocky grin plastered on his face. Did he think True would find that sexy? “May I cut in?”
Easley expected him to share True? Not gonna happen.
“Sorry, Easley. True’s dance card is full the rest of the evening. Go find another partner.”
“Is that what you want, True?”
“Yes, but thank you for asking.” Her voice was firm, but polite. She’d given Easley a gentle, no-fucking-way answer.
“Just because he’s your boss doesn’t mean you have to be at his beck and call. You don’t want a repeat performance.” Easley put a hand on her shoulder.
Repeat performance? What did that mean?
True stiffened in Nick’s arms and leaned into him, her body trembling.
“Easley, back off. The lady said no.” He shoved Easley’s fingers off True’s shoulder. “And keep your fucking hands off her.”
Easley got in Nick’s face. “You may own the company, Cantrell, but it doesn’t give you the right to make whores out of your employees.”
Easley must be out of his mind. “Maybe not, but it sure as fuck gives me the right to fire your ass.”
Easley took a swing at him, but missed. Nick released True and landed a solid punch to the man’s face.
Easley covered his nose. “You can’t do that.”
“You swung first, ass-wipe.” Nick motioned for his security guards who were already moving in to help. “Take his key card and show him out. You can set up an appointment with Adam to clean out your desk.”
“I’ll sue you for this, Cantrell. I’ll take every penny you have. You’re making a huge mistake, True.” Easley yelled over his shoulder as he stormed away. “He’ll use you and then dump your ass, True.”
Damn, he hadn’t meant to do that, but the little bastard had pushed. That single punch to Easley’s nose was worth any amount of money it’d take to pay him off. But if it hurt True in any way, he’d be sick about it. “Are you okay, baby?”
“I’m good.” True started giggling. Actually, she was full-blown laughing, tears running down her cheeks, hee-hawing. He took her by the elbow and led her back to the table away from the curious crowd.
“Did I miss something here?” She hadn’t thought their little dispute in the parking garage was funny last night.
She wiped her eyes with her knuckles. “I’m sorry. I was thinking of something Amy said to me earlier.”
“Care to let me in on the joke?”
“It’s not really that funny; it just hit me in the right spot. Amy pointed out that every woman’s fantasy was to have two men fighting over her.” Another short laugh escaped. “I never thought any man would fight over me. Certainly not twice in as many days.”
“Why not? You’re the whole package, True. Not only beautiful, but kind and smart, too.” He kissed her, forgetting for a moment who might see. “I can’t think of many things I wouldn’t do for you.”
“Would you take me home with you?” She chewed her bottom lip.
“In a fucking heartbeat.” Nick ran a finger over her lip, nudging it from between her teeth. “Oh God, woman. When you do that, I forget my own name.”
“You mean like this?” She pulled her bottom lip between her teeth again.
He pulled her against him, crushing his pelvis against her. “What do you think, True? Can you feel how much I want you?” He released her. “Let’s get out of here.”
“Give me five minutes. I need to tell Amy I’m leaving and let the catering staff know who to talk to if there are any problems.”
She blew him a kiss, grabbed her evening bag, and disappeared into the crowd. Watching True walk away was a treat in itself. The woman had one fine ass. And he couldn’t wait to get her undressed and see how her body had matured over the last seven years.
But first, he needed to sit down a few moments to discretely adjust his slacks and pray his raging hard-on went away before she returned.
Chapter Eight
Tru
e was really planning to do this. She was going home with Nick and had every intention of making love with him. He’d said he wanted to start over. Was it even possible? Even though they had both changed over the years, the spark was still there.
True spoke with the catering staff for a few moments before seeking out Amy, who was engaged in a wild game of tongue hockey with Rob-From-Accounting. “Would you walk with me for a second?”
“Hang on.” Amy whispered something to Rob, who kissed her and patted her on the ass as she stood. “So what’s going on? Where’s that handsome dance partner of yours?”
“That’s what I wanted to tell you.” True couldn’t hold back her smile. “I won’t need a ride home from you tonight.”
“No way! Reunion romance books are my favorites and you, my friend, are going to live it.” Amy hugged True. “I’d say you’re back to normal and I’m so happy for you.”
“I’m excited, but a little nervous, too.”
“Of course you are.” Amy gathered True’s hands. “Listen, if you change your mind, call me. I’ll come get you no matter what.”
“You’re such a good friend, Amy. Thank you.” She squeezed Amy’s hands. “For now, you’d better get back to Rob-From-Accounting.”
“Call me tomorrow. I expect details.” Amy winked and took off.
After a quick trip to the ladies’ room, True was ready to grab Nick by the tie and drag him home. The thought left her breathless, and she was ready to take all Nick had to offer. Her therapist had promised the day would come when she would once again welcome intimacy. All she had to do was hang in there and keep focused on healing. Not forget the attack, but learn to put it aside and not let it rule her life. Every day that she stayed the course brought her closer to taking back control. Having a normal life again was within her reach.
She put her evening bag beneath her arm, took a deep breath, and stepped into the hallway leading back to the main room.
