Page 49 of Damaged Mogul
“I hope it’s okay with you, but I asked the bar to hold on the booze since the champagne will be flowing tonight,” she says.
“Not a problem.”
“Please.” Mikki invites me to dig in.
“You don’t have to tell me twice.”
I bite into thepain au chocolatblanc. I moan. “Oh my God, I may never leave this hotel.”
“You don’t have to. We can keep charging your credit card.”
“My father would fly into town, throw a hissy fit, and demand an explanation.”
Concern colors her green eyes and her lips flatten in a straight line.
Shit.“There I go ruining our time together by talking about my father.”
“I don’t know the man, but I’m not one of his biggest fans,” Mikki says. “As for an explanation on the charges on his credit card…” She shrugs. “Too many film schools, not enough time. Youhadto extend your trip.”
“Oh, you’re good.” I laugh. “I like having you as my accomplice.”
“Anytime.”
“I’ll hold you to it.”
For a few long minutes, we’re far too consumed by our desserts to speak.
Once I’m done devouring the white chocolate croissant, I move my attention to the tempting dulce the leche cake. I’m unprepared for the burst of flavor gushing into my mouth. I close my eyes for a beat, as if I’m in a communion with God. “This is exquisite, incredibly moist, and not too sweet.”
“I’m quite partial, but we have the best pastry chefs in the country.”
“I believe it.”
As we enjoy our afternoon tea, I answer Mikki’s questions about the two schools I visited. It was nothing earth-shattering. Still, I’m touched she cares.
When it comes to the colleges, I’m going through the motions. In the end, since my father is footing the bill, he’ll select the school of his choice. It’s all part of the grand plan.
Whatever.
I should be offended the puppet master hasn’t been in touch yet, but my father continues to ignore me. Ironic, considering he’s the one who insisted I make the trip.
“My second visit to Beverly Hills saved the day,” I say. “Fingers crossed Rhys’s birthday party will make up for a fairly boring day.”
“No need to wish upon a star, dear friend. You’re going to have a blast. Phoenix’s inner circle know how to party. Same goes for the sisterhood.”
“I can’t wait.”
Speaking of people who haven’t been in touch…
“I wonder what time Gage is going to pick me up,” I say. “I booked a spa treatment, and don’t want to make him wait. He was supposed to text?—”
“He won’t be able to pick you up.”
My brows wing in surprise. “Oh.” I school my expression not to show my disappointment. “I see.”
“He sent me a text and asked me to take you to the party.”
Her words hit me in the gut.
