"The elevator's broken?" "No, there are too many coworkers using it during rush hour. I didn't want to be seen." "You're that afraid of being seen?" I answered without hesitation, "Of course."
Nick paused for a moment, pressing his lips together. "Why?"
"Because we're pretending to be a couple. Sooner or later, we'll break up. It's not easy to explain when that happens."
"And if we were a real couple?"
I shrugged. "I think it’d be fine." Did I just say that out loud? His expression, which had been so serious, suddenly lightened.
"Where are we going now?" I asked, trying to change the subject. "I can be whatever type of girl you like—wicked or sweet."
I playfully patted his shoulder. "Don't worry, Mr. Carter, I can handle it."
He stared at me without a word. That’s when I realized my hand was still resting on his shoulder. Oops. I needed to work on my habit of talking with my hands when I got excited.
I let out an awkward laugh and quickly pulled my hand back. Just then, he handed me a thermos. "Drink some water. Take your time."
His sudden thoughtfulness caught me off guard. But since I was actually thirsty, I took a sip. The whole time, I could feel his eyes on me.
I glanced back at him. "Do you want some?"
The moment I asked, I realized how awkward that sounded. But Nick didn't hesitate—he took the cup and drank from it. Indirect kiss. Not that it should matter, considering we... well... kissed before. Still, my cheeks warmed.
***
Thankfully, the car stopped. He got out first and I followed behind.
I was ready for the worst.
When I stepped inside, I was surprised. "Just the two of us?"
"Who else?"
"Your family?"
He smirked. "Linda, you don’t think they're that easy to fool, do you?"
I sighed in relief. "Good point. So what now?"
"Sit down and eat first. We need to get our story straight before they ask too many questions."
"You're right, Mr. Carter. You're more thoughtful than I expected."
"Call me Nick."
I smiled awkwardly. "Nick."
He sliced the steak in front of me with a smooth, practiced motion. "Eat up."
I couldn't help but be impressed. I didn’t expect him to be this considerate. Just my luck. The moment we stepped out of the restaurant, I froze. A familiar figure caught my eye. Zian Simon.
Without thinking, I grabbed Nick’s coat and buried myself in his chest. The scent of cedar filled my nose and my heart pounded.
Nick tensed slightly. "What's wrong?"
"I saw someone... unpleasant. Let me hide."
Footsteps stopped nearby. That annoying voice I knew all too well rang out. "Linda?"
