“That,” Henry says with a dramatic head tilt. “Is why I’m gay.”
I nod, eyes still on Max. “Right? I’m so straight it’s insane. Could you imagine havingtwoof Max? Ugh. All I’ve ever wanted is a boyfriend that has a boyfriend.”
I pause, realization crashing down on me. “Not that Max is my boyfriend.”
Henry presses his lips together. “Sure.”
My gaze flicks back just in time to see Louise rest her hand on Max’s forearm and laugh at something he’s said.
“Looks like Louise is cutting your lunch,” Henry says.
“More like cutting the cheese. Let’s get another drink,” I say, turning.
As we approach the bar, Chadwick is already standing with another suit I’m not familiar with.
“Gemma, Henry,” he says, beckoning us over. “I’d like you to meet Cole Livingstone. COO of Livingstone Hotels.”
I’ve heard of him before. The middle brother.
“A pleasure to meet you,” he says, extending a hand. His voice is honey and gravel, rough but smooth at the same time.
What are they putting in the water in the Livingstone household? I thought Grayson was handsome—Cole’s a whole different breed.
He’s built leaner than Grayson but stands at a similar height, with sandy blond hair slicked back much like Max’s. His hazel eyes catch flecks of amber and green under the lights, and his olive skin is airbrushed to perfection.
“Grayson sends his regards,” Cole says. “He’s dealing with an urgent work matter back home.”
Ah. The lawsuit—Max told me about it.
I accept his hand and paste on my best smile, eager to make a strong impression. “Cole, it’s so lovely to meet you.”
Henry and Cole make a quick introduction.
“Gemma and Henry worked closely with Max on the launch campaign,” Chadwick chimes in. “Henry is our chief creative officer, and Gemma’s our creative director.”
“You’ve done a spectacular job,” Cole says, his tone warm and friendly. “Congratulations. We’re all extremely impressed with what you’ve accomplished. It’s clear how much care and creativity went into ensuring this launch was a success—and from what I’ve seen tonight, it absolutely is.”
Before I can reply, I feel it—that familiar pull, as if he’s tugging on a string tethering us together. I know it’s Max before he even speaks.
“Cole.”
That voice. Low. Commanding. It slides down my spine like molasses. I turn my head slightly, heart pattering in my chest. He looks like every fantasy I never meant to have.
“Max,” Cole says, clapping a hand on his shoulder. “It’s good to see you.”
“You too, mate.” Max turns his focus to Henry and me. “I see you’ve met the brains of the operation.” His eyes land on me and linger.
“I have,” Cole says, smiling. “Very impressive.”
Someone taps Cole on the shoulder, drawing his attention.
“You’ll have to excuse me,” he says, nodding politely to Henry and me. “It was lovely meeting you both.”
He shakes Max’s hand. “I’m in London all week for work, so I’ll catch up with you later.”
With one last charming smile, he disappears into the crowd with Chadwick, leaving just the three of us.
“Well,” Henry says, clapping his hands together. “I think I see someone calling me.”
