Page 92 of The Exception

“I understand, but you have to realize this is motivated by selfish reasons. We could hire a crew to do the work the next time we’re in LA. It’s not a big project. It shouldn’t take long.”

What he said made sense, but still… “I can’t ask you to do that.”

“You’re not asking. I’m offering.”

I hated the idea of him spending even more money, but I knew he wouldn’t let this go. And if we were going to be spending a significant amount of time here over the next two years, it would be worth the investment.

“Okay,” I finally relented. “Only because I want you to be comfortable while we’re here. You know, given how extra your lifestyle is,” I teased.

He narrowed his eyes at me, crowding me now. “Oh, Isee. You think I’m what? Pampered? Spoiled?”

I lifted a shoulder, unable to hide my smirk. I was goading him. I wanted more of this light, playful banter with him.

He narrowed his eyes at me. He didn’t have to say the words “take that back” for me to know that’s what he was thinking.

“You’re sure about the project?” he asked. “I don’t want you to think I’m overstepping or being demanding.”

“Are you ever not demanding?” I teased.

“I’m not the only one who likes control.” He arched a brow in a sexy move that sent a wave of desire through my body.Fuck me.

How could he be both so…infuriating and so, so hot?

I smoothed my hand down my throat, my pulse fluttering beneath my fingertips. He closed the remaining distance between us, his cologne invading my senses. Making my heart beat faster as desire pumped through my veins. He lifted his hand as if to touch me, and I felt the ghost of his caress on my cheek.

For a moment, I thought he was going to kiss me.Please kiss me.My body was aching for his kiss, his touch.

But then Graham’s phone rang, and I excused myself. After being gone for so long, I had a million things to catch up on. And while I should’ve been focused on everything I needed to accomplish before we had to return to LA in ten days, all I could think about was Graham. And that was exactly why it was a bad idea to mix business with pleasure.

CHAPTERTWENTY-TWO

“Hey, Luc,” I said in French, waving as I approached. Queen V had tagged along, and Luc’s eyes widened at the sight of my four-legged companion.

I’d spoken to him over the phone a few times while I’d been away, and he’d sent me updates with text and pictures. I appreciated all his help, and I knew he was probably wondering about my extended absence. Plus, I needed to introduce him and the crew to Graham and tell them about the team from Hudson Security that was going to conduct an audit of the château’s security.

That had been Graham’s idea, and I hadn’t been opposed. In fact, it was a relief. Despite many well-posted “Private Property” signs, there’d been a few times in the past when someone had driven up to the château wanting a tour. Wanting to ask questions. I had enough people coming and going, and it was such a large property, that the idea of Hudson doing a security audit gave me some peace of mind that I hadn’t realized had been lacking.

“Lily, hey.” Luc kissed both my cheeks. “And who’s this?” He peered down at my furry companion.

“This—” I patted her back “—is Queen V.”

“Nice to meet you, Your Majesty.” He held out his knuckles, allowing Queen V to sniff him before she nudged him, wanting him to pet her.

“Sorry I was away for longer than expected.” Queen V explored the area, soon returning to my side.

“It’s not a problem. Work has proceeded as planned.”

“Yes. I can see.” I peered up at the roof, shading my eyes from the sun. The stonemasons were busy measuring for the new cornerstones. “It looks great. Thank you for keeping me updated. I appreciate you taking over while I was gone.”

“Absolutely.”

The more I’d thought about it, the more I’d realized that Graham was right. I needed a project manager, especially now that I was going to be away so much. I couldn’t think of someone better suited to the role than Luc. I only hoped he’d agree.

“Part of the reason I was gone so long was because I found a private investor for the château restoration.”

“You did?” His eyes widened. I nodded. “That’s great news, Lily.”

“It is.” I smiled, relief and excitement coursing through me. We could now save the château. “That said, I’m going to be traveling between here and the US, splitting my time every month.”

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