He looked over at me in the dim cab light of the truck. “I didn’t know you were into that kind of stuff.”
“It keeps me busy.” This was a newer hobby of mine, but he didn’t have to know that. Besides school, I had a lot of time on my hands, and I needed to fill it somehow.
“So how big is this fluffy tree?”
“Not that big.” I tried not to sound defensive. “It’s something cute that can sit on the mantel.”
“I can’t wait to see it.”
I doubted that. “So where are we going?”
“Iron and Ember.”
I scrunched up my nose. “The steakhouse?”
“The one and only.”
I mourned the fact that we’d be eating there. It reminded me of Russia with its old money vibe. I hated the dark mahogany paneling, the heavy silverware and the silent staff that moved like servants in the shadows.
“Anything else I should know?”
“Giselle will be there.”
My warm feelings toward Axel immediately evaporated.
What the hell?Didn’t he remember that the last time I had seen Giselle, I had accused her of sleeping with him? He had shown me the texts afterward proving his innocence, but this was the second time I had accused Giselle of trying to steal my husband.
I didn’t even want to face her. “Are you for real?”
“Yes.” His voice was calm. “I’m for real.”
I didn’t even bother to hide the dismay in my voice. “Why do I have to be there, tonight of all nights?”
“Giselle was very apologetic about getting her wires crossed. She doesn’t blame you for getting upset. Just give her a chance.”
Him simply saying her name washed a swirl of emotions over me that I struggled to contain. “So I sacrificed the sales blitz just to choke down dinner at Iron and Ember with Giselle?”
He looked amused. “Those are strong words for a dinner priced at two hundred dollars per plate.”
“Glad this is funny to you.” I looked out the window, keeping my face away from him.
“It won’t be that bad.” His voice sounded gentle again, but this time I wasn’t falling for his tricks. I’d get through tonight, but I wasn’t even going to pretend to be civil to her.
Giselle was already sittingat the private corner table with the business guests when we arrived, and they all looked expectantly at us when we approached the table.
“Good evening.” Axel started the introductions as he helped me take off my coat and held my chair for me. “This is my wife, Mila.”
Giselle smiled warmly at me. “Hi Mila, nice to see you again.”
“Hi Giselle.” My cheeks flamed with embarrassment.
Giselle remained friendly, professional and kind despite my last outburst. I sat quietly beside Axel, sipping my drink and listening to everyone make small talk around me. After we ordered our food, the conversation moved to business.
I tuned out completely. Trying to be discreet, I used my phone to do some craft research, mainly trying to figure out how many foam balls I’d need.
When I lifted my head, Axel was watching, focusing all his intensity on me.
He leaned over and spoke in a low voice. “Who are you texting?”
