Page 41 of The Heiress's First Date

I was there for him during his time in the military, and I funded his company when he started it. He was there for me as I stretched my wings, saying yes to everything life had to offer. And he congratulated me on every milestone I reached.

I can’t imagine life without him. He’s my ultimate ride-or-die.

“So, what do you think?” King murmurs, giving the railing a shake. It doesn’t budge.

Like most things with this house, it was built well of good materials. But the spaces don’t feel current. Or like home.

King turns his hands around, the heel of his palms facing out, and leans over the rail until his toes lift off the porch. The display of muscle as he shifts into a sort of Superman pose where he’s supported by his arms is impressive.

I prop a shoulder against a post and watch, mesmerized. “I thought I was in shape, but I’m obviously delusional.”

His lips twitch, and his soft green eyes meet mine as he lowers his feet to the ground. “I meant about Raquel.”

“Oh.” A flush of embarrassment heats my skin. “Right. Yeah. I like her.”

She seems to get me and what I ultimately want this space to be. An oasis. Comfortable.

“But you’re leery. Understandable.”

“Yeah.” Turns out my last designer’s assistant gaslit me for months. My lawyers are handling it, freeing me up to try again.

He leans a hip against the railing, looking so at ease. Effortlessly handsome and dressed like he was born out here on this island amidst its fancy homes and picturesque little towns. I’ve never been a loafers guy, but he makes me want to give it a shot.

Hell, it’s on the tip of my tongue to ask him to take me shopping.

What is happening?

I’ve always been comfortable in my jeans and t-shirts and hoodies. Somewhere along the way I acquired a stylist who shops for my suits and such. And while I’m sure I look good, sometimes it feels like I’m playing dress-up. Probably because I’m not confident in my choices. I’d bet my favorite sneakers that King understands fabrics and accessories in a way that is completely foreign to me.

Kingston has the sort of style that makes an impression.

Katherine has that, too.

Were they born with it? Can it be learned? Why do I care?

“Well, for what it’s worth, she’s worked for my family for years. I don’t think you’ll have a problem with her getting the work done.”

“Oh, I’m sure I won’t. Lightning can’t strike in the same place twice, right?” What are the chances?

“Then you should hire her. You deserve your retreat.” He holds my gaze and my stomach does a backflip.

Retreat. Oasis. Both words make my brain buzz with what can only be described as joy.

Kingston glances out at the water, and I follow his gaze, letting the charge between us fizzle.

There’s a pristine white yacht motoring by, brilliant against the deep blue water. I can see the appeal. Coming and going when you please. A slower pace.

I’m starting to worry that I hit my head because I chased the adrenaline rush of building my business for so long. Racing against my past and all the demons telling me I wasn’t good enough. And suddenly, I’m thinking of slowing down. Changing gears, shifting lanes.

What thefuckis happening?

“You ever think about that?” Kingston asks, chin jutting toward the yacht.

“I’m starting to.” In fact, I’m starting to think about a lot of things I never considered before.

16

ALEX

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