“Already? Don’t you want to stay and have another glass of wine?”
“I don’t think it’s a good idea.” She stood from her chair. “Remember what happened the last time we drank together?” A smirk crossed her lips.
“I do. But getting married was the worst that could happen.”
“Maybe. Maybe not.” She walked over and hugged me.
“What was that for?” I asked.
“You looked like you needed a hug. I can tell you’re stressed, but you need to relax. Everything will work out for you and your company.” She headed toward the elevator. I couldn’t stop staring at her. I followed her and pushed the button. The doors opened, and she stepped inside.
“I guess I’ll see you on Friday.” She smiled.
“Yeah. I guess so.” The doors shut, and she was gone.
ChapterTwelve
Willa
He wanted me to stay. I wanted to stay. But I disagreed with him when he said that getting married was the worst thing that could happen. It wasn’t. The worst thing that would happen was my heart breaking again if I casually got involved with him.
Damien Blackwood was a man no woman could easily forget. When I bumped into him at the buffet in Vegas, I was mesmerized by his deep and resonant voice. It had a hint of charm and carried authority, making it difficult to ignore, not to mention his looks that would make any woman weak in the knees as he made mine. I’d go along with his plan and act like the happy little wife. I didn’t have a choice. I needed the money he offered. But even if he didn’t offer me money, I’d still play along to help him.
I walked through the door and found Matt and James snuggled on the couch.
“Why are you home already?” Matt asked.
Walking to the freezer, I grabbed the pint of chocolate ice cream, grabbed a spoon from the drawer, and sat in the oversized chair across from them.
“We had dinner, and I left.”
“We didn’t expect you home tonight. We figured you’d be sleeping with your husband.” James smirked.
“I’m pretty sure he wanted to, but I couldn’t. It’s best to keep my heart out of this deal.”
“What do you mean? What deal?” Matt asked.
“He told me we need to stay married a little longer and asked me if I would be willing to play the happy wife. In exchange, he’s giving me one hundred thousand dollars.”
“WHAT?!” Matt quickly sat up.
“Why the sudden change of heart on his part?” James asked. “I thought he was pushing to end this marriage as quickly as possible.”
“Something about a merger for his company. I’m not really sure. He just needs me for dinner on Friday night with a client and for a few social engagements.”
“And the money? When do you get that?” Matt asked.
“He said it will be in my account in the morning.” I smiled.
“Cha-ching! Do you know what this means?” Matt asked. “It means you can start your breakup box business.”
“I know.” I grinned. “I can get that up and running and then start looking for a new job. Although being a legal secretary doesn’t sound thrilling anymore.”
“That’s because you’re rich as sin!” Matt clapped.
“A hundred thousand dollars isn’t being rich as sin. And if I’m not careful, that money will be gone quickly. I’m heading to bed.” I stood up, put the pint of ice cream back in the freezer, and went to my room.
* * *