Page 113 of In Love and Revenge

‘Eat up,’ he says, placing it down on the giant quartz island in the centre of the room.

I slide on to a stool, my mouth watering.

‘This is going to last me until at least dinner,’ I say, eyeing my plate.

Rafael arches a brow.

‘It is,’ I insist.

‘Nice try,’ he replies, kissing my head like it’s the most natural move in the world. ‘I’m still taking you for lunch.’

‘On a non-date,’ I say, picking up my fork.

He chuckles and the rich sound sends warmth radiating through me.

‘Eat your breakfast, Beauty,’ he murmurs. ‘Before I feed it to you myself.’

Chapter 29

Aurora

‘I’ve kind of been spending time with someone.’

Dove’s face lights up and she beams at me across the table of the coffee place we’re in. ‘Who?’

‘It’s really new.’

She clasps her hands in front of her face, her eyes gleaming for more information. I swallow the lump of deceit in my throat. Guilt is gnawing at me about last night and the fact I had sex with Rafael again. And now I have plans to meet him for lunch like we’re a couple. Not confessing to my best friend just feels wrong on so many levels.

‘We’re not even a ... I don’t know what we are ... But I stayed at his place last night and ... Oh God, I’m not sure what you’re going to think,’ I say.

Her face falls. ‘You’re not back with Charlie again, are you?’

‘No! God, no. Although he texted me this morning.’

‘He did?’

‘Ugh, yes.’ I unlock my phone and hand it to her, open on Charlie’s message.

‘He wants to meet you and talk? After the way he spoke to you in the restaurant?’ Dove scowls, handing my phone back. ‘Tell him where to shove it. Dickhead.’

‘I will, don’t worry.’

‘So, this new guy . . . ?’

I need to confess to my best friend that I accidentally banged her hot older brother.Three times.I take a deep breath for Dutch courage. Here goes ...

Her phone rings in her pocket and she pulls it out.

‘It’s my brother. Sorry, one sec.’

‘Okay,’ I reply, sitting back in my chair as she answers the call.

‘Hey,’ she says brightly.

She listens for a moment, and I wring my hands together underneath the table, wondering which brother she’s speaking to.

‘Trust Benedict.’ She laughs.