Page 19 of The Bachelor Auction

“Look, what I’m saying is that you’re new. You have this fresh and innovative perspective on things. I mean, bidding at a charity event? That’s funny, bold, different. And it might just be a perfect fit for what I’m trying to build up here.”

I stare at him in silence, mulling over his words. Bidding at a charity event wasn’t my idea, and he knows it. He should be having dinner with Brenda, and yet he’s not.

I feel like there’s something there, as though there’s more to this—a deeper meaning that I can’t grasp. Then again, I’m probably being ridiculous.

I’m putting words into his mouth when I should be thankful for the fact that he’s doing the pitching for me. He’s basically handing me a great opportunity on a silver platter while I can’t stop questioning his intentions. Just because we happened to meet again when I thought we wouldn’t in a million years doesn’t mean there has to be a secret agenda.

“I hope so.”

He smiles in response, his eyes lighting up, and my stomach drops a little. He isreallystunning, not in a “walking straight out of a Calvin Klein advertisement” kind of way. He’s more than a beautiful face. He’s clever and business savvy, polite and well-spoken. That’s the picture the newspapers and Internet have painted of him.

Not to mention, whatever he touches turns into a success.

Suddenly I realize I want to impress him with my knowledge. I won’t see him disappointed because he doesn’t seem like someone who ever handles disappointment. Plus, I need to get a handle on this. From now on, no more embarrassing thoughts, endless bathroom breaks, and unfounded questioning.

“If you don’t mind, I’d like to make it an early night. I’d like to give your business idea the attention it deserves,” I say. “Since you’ve so kindly offered to send me the details after dinner, based on the info you provide, I’ll be able to build a business model for tomorrow’s meeting.”

Tyler tilts his head, regarding me for a long moment, before his smile widens. “That could work. You like meringue?”

“Yes, why?”

“You’ll probably be staying up late, so I’ll arrange that dessert be brought up to you.”

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