Khalid was amused.“Tell us your thoughts, Emily.”
No, please don’t.
I had no idea she’d taken an interest in the project or the protesters besides taking notes at the team meeting.One.One fucking meeting.
“Well, it’s a family neighborhood.Parents have invested in homes to raise their kids.A nice area.The development will attract a different demographic.Late-night diners and drinkers.”She seemed to catch herself and glanced quickly at me, then added more softly, realizing she’d fucked up.“I guess I understand how they might not want that.”
Christ.
Victor finally began chewing while I conjured up ideas to torture her when we got home.
First, I’d had to respond.I couldn’t let that go.
Casually sipping my wine, I shot Khalid an amusedwomen huh,smirk.“We’ve had interest from a national daycare wanting space, so I don’t think it’s quite that dire.”
I ran a hand over her hair and gave her the most condescending smile.Inside, though, I was wondering how long you can strangle someone before they run out of air.Information I may need, if Emily is going to live with me for the week.
“My fiancée is too kindhearted.People adapt.Communities adapt.Or they move because it's no longer the right place for them.It’s how cities keep growing and evolving.”
Her mouth snapped shut, but I saw the flicker of annoyance within them.
“Emily disagrees.”Khalid sipped his drink, amused.
“Oh, no, it was an observation.”Emily began, then glanced at me.“I just think—”
“Emily is an administrator,” I said, reaching for my glass—instead of her neck—and took a quick gulp.“Her skills lay elsewhere.”
On my cock, choking it if I have my way.
Victor began coughing, banging on his chest.“Shit.Went down the wrong way.”
Emily remained quiet, and when the dinner conversation moved on, I glanced down and was greeted with wild fury.I lifted a brow, as if to say, next time, zip your lips.Which backfired on me.After five long beats, Emily plastered a smile on her lips, then turned back to the sheikh.
“I grew up in South West London and know the impact a development can have on an area.It can be devastating and push those wanting a good life into less safe areas.I’m sure none of you want that on your conscience.”
Fuck.
I’d never seen him look so amused.
“Is that right?”He shot me a quick glance, then went back to Emily.“So, what do you recommend?I’d like to hear what youradministratorhas to say.”
Jesus.
That was too close to home.
Fortunately for me, she hadn’t been expecting his response and was put on the spot.“Sebastian is right.I don’t know what I’m talking about.I’m sure it will be a great success.”
Khalid is a powerful and wealthy man, and while he was amused, I know his suspicion is higher than if she’d just kept her sexy damn lips shut.
So I’m pissed.
But I still need her.
Now more than ever, and I’m angry with myself.
When we pull up outside Emily’s apartment building, she sits silently.I know she’s upset, but I’ve never had to think this much about a woman’s emotions.When Josh climbs out, I sigh and twist my body to face her.
“You were very rude and demeaning.”Emily pouts.“If this is how you are going to act, then I do not want to be your fake wife any longer.”
