Page 67 of Tell Me All Your Lies

A soft glow is coming from the room. Slowly, I keep going forward, wondering what’s happening in there.

When I finally see what it is, I can’t believe my eyes. My heart feels like it’s going to jump out of my chest.

Grant is tending to the fireplace, wearing a pair of dark-washed jeans and a white collared shirt with the sleeves rolled up. Even with his back to me, he’s every bit as delicious-looking as he normally is.

That’s when I notice the dozens of candles spread throughout the room. There’s a charcuterie board on the coffee table and two glasses of red wine sitting next to it. Centered is a deck of cards and a poker case.

“No poker table? I’m shocked,” I say.

Grant’s back vibrates slightly, and I call that a victory. I got the man to laugh again, a small win that I’m collecting.

“I did think about it, but I figured it might be too much.”

He faces me with a wide smile that makes me want to drop this façade altogether and tell him we should stop pretending while we’re living together like this.

I glance around the room once more.

“What a setup. Have a date after you teach me poker?”

Grant’s smile is devilish as he tilts his head to the side and places his hands in his pockets.

“All for you.”

“What a waste,” I say.

His smile drops, and I realize if I want to show him what I want, then I need to stop the comebacks.

“Sorry. Old habits die hard,” I add.

That smile reappears, and he nods in acceptance.

“Glass of wine?”

“Is it poisoned?” I tease.

“No, love. I’d like to keep you around.”

Love. Not darling like he usually calls me.

I shouldn’t let that word have any more meaning than how he probably meant it. Just another term of endearment he would use with anyone he’s partnered with.

Heading around the couch, I settle down on the open space in front of the coffee table. Grant notices and sits down too.

He hands me the glass of wine, and I watch as he drinks in my outfit. I love being under his gaze. The dress was the right call.

“I like the dress of choice.”

“I knew you would.”

I take a sip of the wine as Grant picks up his glass.

“No toast? Bad form, Collins.”

“I certainly do apologize, Sinclair.”

Grant takes a sip of his wine.

“You can make it up to me.”

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