Page 107 of Submission

“Great.”

She studies me for a moment.

“You’re acting weird.”

“That’s because I’m trying to be humble, which is probably odd to see.”

Megan emits a real laugh for the first time in days. It warms my insides and makes me smile inwardly.

“That’s exactly what it is…odd.”

“Go get dressed.” I shoo her away.

“Anything in particular I should wear for wherever you’re taking me?”

“You look perfect in anything you wear, baby. Surprise me.”

With that, she walks over in her bare feet, rises to her toes, and pecks my lips with the sweetest kiss I didn’t know I needed.

“See you in thirty, Mr. Middleton.”

Chapter 42

This Is My Los Angeles

Megan

The vibrant pulse of Los Angeles surrounds me, a hum of energy and excitement. I stand beside Hunter outside the Blue Whiskey, wondering why he’s brought me here, of all places.

His tall, dominant figure seems to cast a shadow even in the night and makes me all too aware of the contrast between his powerful demeanor and my own sense of wonderment. The more time I spend with him, the more in awe of him I become.

“You look beautiful,” he says to me, and I blush.

“You’d probably tell me I was pretty if I was only wearing a trash bag.”

“Have you ever spent the night out enjoying the city we live in?”

I cock my head to the side, not totally understanding the question. “I mean, I’ve gone out with friends.”

“What friends?”

“That’s not nice.”

“I’m serious.”

“Naomi and–”

“And who? Did that the boyfriend of yours from school ever take you anywhere?” he asks with a jealous bite to his tone.

“Obviously not.”

“That’s what I thought.” Hunter captures my hand, his touch reassuring. “Tonight, Megan,” he whispers, a twinkle in his eye, “I’m going to show you my Los Angeles.”

While it’s weird to see Blue Whiskey patrons gawk at us, I feel a flutter of excitement as we settle into the plush limousine that suddenly pulls up in front of the club.

Hunter opens the door for me like a gentleman. “Your chariot awaits.”

“Wait, is that Parker underneath that hat?”

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