Every time I begin editing the romance manuscript I’m working on, my mind drifts to our conversation last night. His questions about the book both surprised and flustered me. He listened and showed interest in what I had to say, which never happened after I married my ex-husband. I’d drank a few glasses of wine and cringed when I re-read our messages this morning. I don’t have a filter when I drink alcohol.
We talked about our childhoods and our families. He told me how he started his company.Gabe worked his ass off to get where he is today. He has a strong drive to succeed, and he likes to be in control of his life. The thought of him commanding everyone’s attention in a business meeting has me feeling warm all of the sudden. He exudes confidence and dominance, two things that are sexy as hell in my book.
Feeling more comfortable on the phone, I opened up to him. It’s hard to discuss losing my family. Even though it happened so long ago, the pain is still overwhelming at times. I think of all the milestones in my life, but my parents weren’t here to share them with me. It’s lonely and heartbreaking, but I continue striving to make them proud.
Glancing at my phone, I realize it’s time to get ready for my date.
After taking a shower, I style my hair in long waves and apply minimal makeup. Deciding on a black dress that stops mid-thigh and heels to match, I take one last look in the mirror. Smiling at my reflection, I feel beautiful for the first time in a long time. My hair is full, flowing down my back perfectly. My skin is radiant with a natural glow. This dress looks amazing, hugging my curves just right.
“You can do this, Brooke.” Taking a deep breath, I relax my shoulders as I exhale. Grabbing my keys and purse, I head outside.
The drive to the restaurant is nerve-racking. A mixture of anxiety and excitement overwhelmsme. Being my first date since my divorce, I’m praying I don’t make a fool of myself. Turning the radio on, I let the beat of the music take over, pushing away any negative energy.
Pulling into the restaurant, Gabe is already here, leaning against his truck, and I park in the empty space beside him. He saunters over, smiling while opening my door, reaching for my hand to help me out.
Smoothing down my dress, butterflies flutter in my stomach. My breathing stalls as I look at him.
Gabriel Layton is devastatingly handsome. My thighs clench at the top couple of buttons undone on his gray shirt, teasing me with a sprinkle of dark chest hair. Biting my bottom lip, I take in the black and gray ink peeking from under his rolled-up sleeves. My gaze roams down his body and freezes on the sculpted bulge in his black slacks.
As my eyes make their way back to his face, I’m struck by his heated appraisal. I breathe deeply through parted lips, my body temperature rising.
He casually takes a step forward. “You look incredible.”
Blushing at his compliment, I smile. “You look very handsome, Gabriel.”
He moves closer, the heat of his body sending a shockwave through my system. Snaking his arm around my waist, he leans into my ear. “I’m going to kiss you.”
I gasp as his warm breath caresses my cheek.My voice is nowhere to be found so I do the only thing I can manage. I nod.
I should’ve said no.
This is moving too fast.
But who am I kidding? I want his mouth on mine.
He meets my gaze for a brief moment. Gripping my chin with his fingers, he leans in, sealing his lips to mine. He’s soft and warm, yet firm and unyielding. When his tongue traces my bottom lip, I give him entrance, and he plunges inside my mouth, exploring every inch. Our tongues move against each other in a sensual dance, having a dizzying effect on me. Swaying on my feet, my arms wrap around his neck, holding on for dear life.
God, this man can kiss.
Pulling him closer, a whimper leaves me as I lose myself in his delicious rhythm. He groans, his arm tightening around my waist. His growing length presses against my stomach and my body reacts. My core aches for him, wetness dampening my panties as my nails dig into the nape of his neck.
He pulls away, whispering against my lips. “We have to stop, or we won’t make it inside.”
Dazed and turned on more than I’ve ever been in my life, I nod. “Right. Dinner.”
He grins, gripping my hand, bringing it to his lips, kissing my knuckles. The sweet gesture has me melting into a puddle. Tucking my arm in thecrook of his, he leads me to the massive building.
Holy shit.
This place is elegant. The outside is black with “The Golden Crown” etched in gold lettering. I’ve never heard of this place, but it’s obviously popular from the full parking lot and the line forming at the door. It sits beautifully on the edge of the river, weeping willow trees lining the pathway to the front door.
Once inside, I look around at the beautiful display of fairy lights, expecting to wait a while for a table to become available. I’m surprised again when he gives the hostess his last name, and we’re immediately taken back.
Gabe squeezes my hand gently, giving me a reassuring smile as we follow the hostess to our table. He pulls my chair out and once we’re both seated, I take in the dining area.
I know he’s successful and I try to hide my awkwardness, but this place screamsmoney.
Second guessing my attire for the evening, anxiety weighs heavy in my chest. Looking around, I see women dressed in far less, but I question the dress I loved only moments ago.
