JAYDEN
New York
I persuaded Chloe to fly in three days early to spend a few nights in the Hamptons so we can work on the bucket list without being bothered by the paparazzi, our siblings, or any of my other impending commitments.
Truthfully, though, it’s not about the bucket list.
I enjoy being with her. Not ideal, given the circumstances.
Using the security app on my phone, I check the cameras at my Santa Monica residence for any unusual activity. Something’s still not sitting right with me about the Mia and Naomi incidents, but the only thing I see is Colton’s Mustang and Lula’s Prius in my driveway.
Lula’s heading to Mexico tomorrow for two weeks to sort out some paperwork. She’s probably stocking up my fridge with another endless supply of tacos, quesadillas, tamales and pambazos from the restaurant where she’s back working. Even though I never eat any of it.
She’s travelling with one of her colleagues, Diego. If the way she blushes when his name comes up in conversation is anything to go on, I assume there’s something romantic going on between them. If only Diego would step up and make an official commitment, then I’d be off the hook and free to pursue a real relationship.
How times have changed. I gaze out across the Atlantic, wishing not for the first time this week that things were different.
‘How long have you had this place?’ Chloe’s question drags me away from my mental “if onlys.”
With a smile wide enough to light up the room, she takes in my beachside villa in all its pristine glory. Backing onto the high, white sand dunes and rolling waves of Cooper’s beach, it is pretty spectacular. When I found this place, I knew I had to have it, especially as we share the same name. It felt like fate.
Trendy artwork lines the walls. The interior is entirely teal and white with the odd splash of bottle green, as if the designer simply replicated the colour scheme from outside. And with its huge soft furnishings and sandalwood floors, luxury really does blend with comfort here. ‘About four years. I bought it to escape the rat race of LA.’ I shove my phone into my pocket and settle my hands on Chloe’s waist as she gazes out across the crashing ocean waves.
‘Do you get out here much?’ she asks.
I shake my head, unable to voice a reply.
I’ve never had anyone I wanted to bring before and coming here alone leaves too much time to think.
‘Can we go to Kobe Beach Club?’ Chloe asks excitedly.
‘Only if you don’t mind your face and ass being plastered all over tomorrow’s papers.’
‘Ah, right.’
She’ll happily discuss her wildest fantasies with no shame, but she has a distinct aversion to being photographed with me. Given the fact I’m technically engaged to be married, even if it is one loveless transaction for the sake of Lula’s green card, this should be a positive. Discretion is essential. So why does it grate on me?
I nuzzle Chloe’s neck over her shoulder, taking in the view with her. ‘Are you embarrassed of me?’ My tone’s jovial, despite the hint of doubt eating me. Even if I wanted to, I can’t be seen with her because I don’t want to jeopardise Lula’s citizenship, but it still rankles my pride that she’s so averse to it.
She always was a class above me, even when we were kids.
Chloe spins round, her lips inches from mine. ‘No, I’m embarrassed of me.’
Her confession takes me by surprise. ‘I don’t get it.’ My hands dig deeper into her waist. It feels so good to hold her without worrying someone might see.
‘I’m ashamed I’m not strong enough to fight this thing between us.’
‘And what is this thing exactly?’ My hips press deliciously against hers.
‘It’s an infatuation.’ There’s no shame in the way she grinds back.
‘Is the cold, sharp, ambitious ice queen, Chloe Sexton, actually admitting she’s infatuated with me?
‘Certain parts of you, at least.’ She winks and grinds again.
‘Just wait until we’ve worked through your list. If you’re infatuated now, you’ll be madly in love by the time I’m finished with you.’ The words slip out before I can stop them.
Chloe stiffens.
