Page 72 of Playing Pretend

Cassidy’s question comes back to haunt me, and for the first time I don’t want to dive headfirst into considering potential problems. I’ve already war-gamed the risks of losing my heart to Rome a million times. The only harm that can come to our friendship is frommymessy thoughts.Mytangled feelings.

If I keep this sterile—emotionless, nothing more than a wicked game, just like Rome does—it could be the perfect way to build my confidence in areas I can’t seem to fix on my own.

It would also give me the opportunity to get Rome out of my system. To take one huge bite of indulgence before I’m forced to rebuild my walls against attraction.

It’s only one more night. One more thrill.

Piper

Fine. I’ll wear it. But once tonight is over, that job is mine and Julian is never to be mentioned again.

Rome

Deal.

I suck in a breath, side-eying the package on the bed.

Rome

And just so you’re aware, I’ll be in control of the device. I’ll know if you turn it off or remove it.

I’d already figured as much.

Rome

Now hurry up and get ready. I’m excited to play with my new toy.

I scowl and dump my cell on the bed, determined to do the opposite. I take my time showering. I curl my hair. I do my makeup with meticulous care, perfecting an exquisite smoky eye. Then I finally step into my evening dress, the black sparkling bodice tight against my breasts while the loose, layered skirt falls from my hips.

My shoes are the last piece of the distraction puzzle before I’m left standing at the end of the bed, staring at my fate.

I snatch the package off the coverings. Any plastic wrap has already been removed, I assume so Rome could sync the device to his watch. Or phone. Or whatever other device will be the source of torture he plans to use.

I take the vibrator to the bathroom, wash it thoroughly, then clamp my teeth as I hike my skirt and insert the device into a place no friend should ever insert another friend’s so-called gift.

The worst part is how the toy slides in without friction.

My body is prepared for what’s to come even though my heart is worried and my mind is a mess.

I’m not going to overthink it anymore. I’m going to play the game. Enjoy the fun.

I grab my purse and cell, then walk from the suite with my head held high, ignoring the intrusion between my thighs as I descend in the elevator.

I’m on edge, the anticipation for the first buzz of vibration quickening my breaths.

I stride from the building and around the pool, confident in my attempt to appear natural when my gaze finds Rome at the bar.

He stands between the stools. Pete on his right. Cassidy on the left. All of them with a drink in hand as they chat.

Alcohol seems like a great option right now. A row of ten shots would be perfect. But sobriety is key if I plan to get through the night without being humiliated in front of my colleagues.

As if sensing my approach, Rome turns, his expression unreadable as he takes in the sight of me.

Is he surprised I showed? Had he been bluffing?

His gaze rakes the length of me as I eat the distance between us, his leisurely appraisal making my skin burn while his free hand slides into his pocket.

I tense, predicting the soft hum of vibration that awakens in my core.

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