Page 10 of The Devil and the Dancer
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He listened to the voice on the other end of the line without flinching.
“Tell me why,” he demanded.
“I told you, it’s a business matter.”
“It’s never only a business matter, Vivian. Not with you.”
Her laugh grated against his skin and killed any hint of arousal Chloe had provoked.
“Don’t you trust me?” she asked.
“Not even a little.”
“I’ll be there in a few days,” she said. “I didn’t hear back from you, so this is your courtesy call. I’ll expect an introduction,mon loup.”
He squeezed his eyes shut. “Who are you bringing with you?”
“Renard, of course.”
“He has Veronica’s information. Tell him to call her with details.”
“Very well. I’m dying to see your new place, Gavin. I hear it’s quite delicious.”
Even the way she said his name grated.Gahveen.
“I’ll see you next week.” He hung up the phone. She didn’t afford him any courtesy, so why should he give her any? She would intrude in his life at her leisure with no consideration for him. Vivian didn’t ask permission. She assumed.
Gavin wrapped a thick towel around himself and grabbed another for Chloe. She’d said she wanted to spend the night at the loft since Ben and Tenzin were leaving for Puerto Rico soon. It was time for her to go.
He hit another button on the phone. “Abraham.”
“Yes, boss?”
“Chloe needs a ride back to the loft. Fifteen minutes, please.”
“Of course.”
Vivian and Chloe. A knot of dread settled in Gavin’s stomach. He didn’t want Vivian to know anything about Chloe. Not yet. She’d know eventually if things went according to his plans, but the longer he could put it off, the easier life would be.
He walked back outside and saw her with her eyes closed, leaning against the side of the hot tub. Beads of sweat ran down her temples, following the line of her graceful neck.
Vivian wouldn’t touch her. She was too precious. Too breakable.
“Chloe.” He spoke from a distance.
She opened her eyes. “Hey.” Her voice was a little breathless. Unlike Gavin, who’d had cold water doused on him by Vivian’s phone call, Chloe was still breathless and wanting.
Fuck me.
“I’m very sorry”—he had to make his voice brusque—“but I’m going to have to leave. I thought I had more time tonight, but I don’t.”
She frowned and sat up straight. “Oh. Um… okay. Should I call Abe—?”
“I already called him. He’ll be waiting downstairs in fifteen minutes.” He carefully placed the towel next to the hot tub on the redwood bench and stepped back. “If you don’t need me—”
“I’m fine.” Her eyes revealed her confusion. “Go… do what you need to do. Everything all right at the bar?”
