“How did you do that?” I was curious; she guessed my drink by smelling an empty glass.
She shrugs casually. “It’s a family thing. Now let’s get down to business.”
I exhale. “I don’t like it when someone takes my time for granted. Rules must be followed.”
NOELLE
He is stiffer than a starched shirt. “You’re late,” “you’re not what I wanted,” or “Rules must be followed.” I want to say shut up. But for Anushka’s sake, I smile through it.
Roman Voss, unfortunately, is Ralph-Lauren-rich-boy-on-the-coast pretty. You know, that classic-Americana-old-money-great-DNA look.
When I saw him from a distance, my jaw dropped, and I didn’t see the waiter, and well, the rest is history. Champagne glasses were flying all because of the man sitting spread eagle with a phone by his ear. He didn’t even look welcoming. Dark brown hair combs away from his face, a straight nose holds up thin gold-frame glasses, which in turn, highlights his deep green eyes.
It doesn’t help that he has pussy lips. At least that’s what my cousin calls men with a thick bottom lip and bow-like top lip. All in all, Roman “Stick-Up-His-Ass” Voss was unfortunately a gorgeous man.
He is the kind of man that makes me want to choke him when he talks and climb him when he is silent.
“Noelle, is it? Are you even paying attention?” He asks. His nose flares, but his eyes rove my body, and there is heat in them.
I swallow. “Sorry, yes. Anushka will be available to you in two days—” Before I can continue, he chimes in.
“That can’t do. I need someone from tomorrow night until Christmas, so two weeks,” Roman says, his hand gripping the side of the table. Without thinking, I reach over the table and ease his hand off.
I hold it for a couple of seconds, looking at him in his emerald eyes as I say, “Listen, whatever the problem is, I am here to help you take care of it. Now, tell me the problem.”
He looks down at my fingers, and he takes them into his palm. Slowly, he lets it go and leans back in his chair.
Roman’s touch leaves my fingers tingling. I pull it away quickly and clear my throat.
“Tessa has always been in my life. She is a childhood friend, and when we got older, she became my girlfriend. Then we brokeup, and now my little brother is marrying her.” His face remains unreadable.
“What the hell? Your brother is marrying your ex? Your brother sounds shady as hell.” I cover my mouth. “I am so sorry.”
Roman shrugs, and his shoulders look wider than before. Jesus, he is fine.
“There is nothing to apologize for. Anyway, I needed an escort to…” He breaks off as the waiter places our drinks on the table and leaves. “To act as my fake fiancée.”
I feel my jaw slacken and squint. “Why do you need an escort for that, though? Get a friend.”
“Do you truly work for Prestige Partners? You are not doing a good job at trying to attain me.” He lifts the glass and sips his drink.
Shit, my mouth is running away again. I fold my lips, trying to regain my sensibility.
“Prestige Partners is a great choice, we are the best companion service. Anushka will be able to fulfill your request; she will be available the day after tomorrow. She—”
“Again that can’t do. I need someone from tomorrow evening, so we can arrive at the house looking happy.”
Shit, shit. “Um, why? I mean, she can meet you there. Create a backstory. She’s a model, and she is out of town.”
He shakes his head. “I already said no.”
“Right.” I look down at my page and begin to scribble, trying to formulate an idea.
“What about you?”
My body becomes alert. “What about me?”
“Stand,” he commands, flicking his fingers.
