He groans and throws his head back looking to the ceiling. “You’re killing me, Kitten. There are many places in this building where you could give me a preview.”
Patting his chest twice, I laugh. “Not on your life, Tiger, but maybe when we get back to the condo I’ll give you the full show.”
“You shouldn’t stand on your ankle for too long, Marissa. If we stay here the entire time, it could cause a reinjury.” He puts on his best concerned face and two eyebrows go up for extra emphasis.
“Nice try, but you’re a month too late. We’re here to support Clare and the center. I suggested this event. I can’t leave early.”
“Fine.” He grumbles a few words under his breath I don’t make out. “But as soon as it’s time, let’s go back to my place.”
“No, let’s go back to mine.” I picked up a few piles of clothes from my bedroom this afternoon.
He cocks his head down at me. “I’m pretty sure your place is technically still mine.”
Over time I’ve perfected “the look.” You know, the one every girlfriend should be able to shoot to their significant other any time they're being ridiculous. It’s the face Ryland gets now.
It’s time for me to burst his bubble even more. “No can do, Captain. Aspen wants everyone to go to The View.”
The View is a small restaurant on top of the Marriott in the Financial District, which prides itself on their spectacular view of the San Francisco skyline. I’ve wanted to go for the past four years but haven’t made the time. I'm excited to experience what everyone talks about when you see the city with her lights on. I like to do the touristy thing even if I’m a local at this point.
“Why?” he asks.
“The view, obviously. Also real food and to celebrate. It will be fun, I promise.”
“And if it’s not?”
I try to think of a bribe to get him enthusiastic. “If you don’t have the time of your life, I’ll let you break out the handcuffs again."
“Deal.” His agreement is fast and easy. Too fast and too easy. Little does he know I enjoyed the handcuffs as much as he did. Either way I win.
