Total pages in book: 91
Estimated words: 92368 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 462(@200wpm)___ 369(@250wpm)___ 308(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 92368 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 462(@200wpm)___ 369(@250wpm)___ 308(@300wpm)
But Rich is attractive in that all-American-boy kind of way. The exact opposite of Zeus. Blond hair. Green eyes. Six-two. Used to play college basketball. Athletic…hot. And he wears a uniform, so…you know, hot.
Rich’s eyes go down and widen as he takes in my outfit, which is showing beneath my open coat.
I have to stifle a laugh. Men are so easy.
I didn’t change out of my club clothes and into normal clothes like I usually do before heading home. I was in a rush to leave because of Zeus.
My club outfit consists of white PVC go-go boots, a hot-pink bandeau top, and matching hot pants. The outfits that the club has us wear don’t leave much to the imagination.
“Nice outfit,” he drawls. His dilated eyes land on my lips first and then on my eyes. “Why haven’t I seen that one before?”
“Because you’ve never been to the club.”
“Ah. My error. One I need to rectify immediately.”
I laugh, but I don’t really feel it, and I know exactly why.
Zeus.
Fucking Zeus.
“You sure you’re okay?”
Rich cups my cheek in his hand, and I appreciate the warmth it brings.
I’ve been filled with so many different emotions since seeing Zeus—most of them bad—that I feel cold inside. I didn’t realize just how cold until Rich put his hand on me.
Sometimes, it’s the simplest of touches that can make you feel better. Well, maybe not better. I don’t think I’ll feel better for a while after running into Zeus tonight.
“I’m sure.” I smile.
He brushes his thumb over my lips. “It’s been a while since I’ve seen you,” he says tenderly.
“I know. I’ve been busy with Gigi starting pre-K and work and life…”
“How’s Gigi handling pre-K?”
“You know Gigi.” I smile wide at the thought of my baby girl. “Nothing fazes her. She has the confidence of a seasoned performer.”
“I wonder where she gets that from.” He grins.
“I’ve no idea.” I innocently flutter my lashes.
Rich chuckles and then leans in, gently kissing me on the lips.
It’s sweet. It’s nice.
He’s not Zeus.
“I’ve missed you,” he murmurs.
“You mean, you’ve missed being inside me.”
He smiles against my mouth. “You could say that. When can I see you next?”
“How does Wednesday night sound? I’ll ask Aunt Elle to watch Gigi.”
“Wednesday sounds far away, but I’ll take it.” He leans back. “Guess I’m gonna be spending some more time with Rosie Palm and her five sisters.” He grins, waving his palm at me, and I chuckle.
“You’re a good-looking guy, Rich. I’m sure you’re not wanting for women.”
I don’t know why I said that.
In the time we’ve been sleeping together, I’ve never asked Rich to be exclusive with me. It would be unfair when I can’t give him a lot of my time. But I’ve also never asked him about other women either.
Why would I say that now?
I know why.
Zeus.
The cheating, abandoning asshole has thrown me off-kilter.
Rich’s brow goes up, and he leans his arms back on my window. “You saying you want me to sleep with other women?”
I think on that. I wouldn’t say the thought of him with other women makes me explosive with jealousy, but it also doesn’t make me feel particularly good either.
I shake my head, and he smiles.
“Do I need to be asking about other guys?”
That makes me laugh. “I barely have time for myself, so…no, you don’t have to ask about other guys.”
Except for the one I saw tonight.
Rich doesn’t know who Gigi’s father is. Only a few people do. And it’s going to stay that way.
“I should take you out on a date.”
That takes me aback. What is it with men and them shocking the shit out of me tonight?
“No, you shouldn’t.”
My smile is tight, and he nods in understanding.
He pushes back off my car, standing up straight. “Wear that on Wednesday.” His eyes flick down to my outfit.
“Only if you wear that.” I tip my head at his uniform.
“You got a deal.” He steps back from my car. “See you Wednesday, Cam.”
“See you. Oh, and, Rich, have your handcuffs at the ready, too.” I give him a sexy smile.
“Yes, ma’am.” He winks and tips an imaginary hat at me.
I pull my car off the side of the road, a smile on my face. Then, the damn radio decides to play Rihanna’s “Umbrella,” and the smile slides off my face as I’m catapulted back nine years.
Nine Years Ago
“Excuse me.”
I feel a tap on my shoulder and glance over to see a group of three girls standing behind me in line for the Ferris wheel.
They look my age. And they’re cute and pretty in that dainty way I’ll never be. I’m tall for my age, all long legs and arms. Perfect for ballet. Not so perfect for a teenager desperate to fit in.
Wanting to make new friends in this place I’ve just moved to, I smile and say, “Hi. Everything okay?”