Page 67 of Unmasking Mr. Crown

“How did you recognize me behind this thing?” She touched a hand to her mask.

"You and Reese Witherspoon are the only women I know with perfect, heart-shaped jawlines." He stroked his chin thoughtfully.

Not the jawline. He’s always had a thing about it.

“So, uh … what are you doing here?"

“Visiting friends and looking at real estate.”

"You're moving to Chicago?" her voice cracked.

“The Hamptons. Our friends have a house there and are looking to sell. A vacation home.”

"The Hamptons, huh? Some gorgeous properties out there. I hear it’s a buyer's market."

Buyer's market? You don’t know a damn thing about east coast real estate. Stop babbling!

"How’s your father?" he asked.

"Fine. Running around like always, chasing horses like a man in his twenties. We’re throwing him a surprise birthday party this weekend.”

"And that naughty sister of yours?"

"Still naughty. Actually, she's doing well. Still teaching sculpture at Rice."

Natalie's insides twisted as she reacquainted herself with his brown eyes behind his ram mask. His hair was shorter, but still as thick as she remembered. Ugh, gorgeous jerk. Natalie scanned for a passing server, wishing she had a drink in hand.

Something really strong.

Like gasoline.

Roman stepped closer. "Tell me about your life here. I want to know everything."

"There's really not much to tell."

"But there is. Your new job. New friends. You look happy … and more beautiful than ever.”

The charms of his winning smile and sexy accent were a practiced spell. She fell under it for a few minutes before instinct and better judgment pulled her back. Roman always played an angle.

He doesn’t think I’m ready to give him another chance, does he?

"Roman?" A woman's voice floated from behind them.

Natalie stiffened.

Of course he’s not here alone.

He's Roman Goddamn DeLuca.

"I’ve gotta go,” Natalie said. “Very early flight."

She extended her hand, but he brushed it away. He pulled her in for a long hug, her skin prickling when his fingers touched her back.

“Maybe we can have dinner while I’m in town," he whispered.

Before she could respond, the woman appeared. A stunning redhead … with a noticeable baby bump.

"Roman, our friends are waiting." She slipped her hand inside his.