Page 104 of The Bet
“Oh, mama mia!” cried Cara, rubbing her hands together excitedly.
“Only because he got the investment he needed, and he said he wanted to celebrate.”
“Yes, yes … if that’s what you want to believe, carry on.”
“Itisbecause he got the investment,” she insisted. “He was in a celebratory mood.”
“Tell me more,” said Cara, pushing herself up onto the countertop. “Where did you go? What did you do?”
“We went some place called The Oasis.”
“The Oasis?! Did you go to The Vault?” she asked, “It’s the hip and trendy club in the basement.”
“No, we just sat in the bar and talked.”
“I think he’s got a soft spot for you.”
“You would.”
“No, I really believe that.”
“I know. You would.”
Cara tut-tutted. “Is he single?”
“How should I know?” She shook her head. “And why are you asking?”
“Because I want to date him.” She rolled her eyes. “Why do you think?” And then, without giving her a chance to reply, “What happened next?”
“We had snacks, caught up on stuff. He might be able to offer me extra work now.”
“Yeah?” Cara didn’t seem interested. Izzy didn’t dare say it was 20 hours, because, despite what Xavier said, she got the feeling his business dealings were ad hoc, and she didn’t want to get too excited too early.
“Did he offer you anythingelse?” The naughty expression on Cara’s face indicated that she had non-business like dealings on her mind.
“No.”
“He’s single, according to Gisele Steiner’s social media updates.”
“What are you doing stalking Gisele Steiner?”
“Being your wing woman.”
“Oh, for goodness sake,” Izzy picked up her cup. “Xavier Stone and I have nothing in common. Nothing.”
“That’s what you think.” Cara slipped off the countertop. “You’ll tell me I’m right, eventually. Goodnight.”
Izzy sat down on the couch, and got out her notes, and wondered how it was that she had revealed so much of herself to Xavier Stone, than she ever had to anyone else.
