Page 62 of Wildflower
Turning around to look at her again, I blow out a long breath. “She’s gorgeous,” I whisper, more to myself than anyone.
She’s more beautiful than I’ve allowed myself to acknowledge in the office, more beautiful than I imagined when I had Alice in my mind. And she’s not even smiling yet. I want to see that smile.
My stomach sinks and soars again, making me nauseated. What am I supposed to do now? Just leave?
“What’s your move?”
“I can’t meet her. I’m her CEO … and she hates me.”
“How do you know?”
“Because I’m an arse. I practically yelled at her yesterday.” For good reason, though. Wasn’t it? She was out of line. I think.
The hole in my chest that’s threatening to form at the thought of not speaking to her again tells me I should try. Could I make hernothate me?
We barely know each other, yet I also feel she knows me in ways that no one else does. I’ve changed over the last few weeks. All because of her.
“What are you going to do?” Aiden asks.
“That’s what I’m wondering.”
We stand for a moment looking at her. The market is bustling between us and her like a busy river.
“She’s waiting for you.”
“She’s waiting for Robin.”
“I’ve never seen you look at anyone like that.”
I shove him in the shoulder, but it’s lacklustre, and he doesn’t budge. He’s right. I haven’t. Everything about this is new.
“What would you do?” I ask.
Aiden huffs. I kind of know. He’s a romantic. He’d doubtless give up his entire fortune for the right girl.
“You know we’re not the same, Mark. I would go for the girl and figure it out. But you’re in a pickle, so it’s different for you. You might need to do some damage control first.”
“So do I stand her up? I mean Robin?”
“Yes, Robin should stand her up.” He winks.
What was that about?
Rey turns again, looking around. She puckers her lips, and the dimples show. My heart sinks.
Aiden’s phone rings, and he turns to pick up, putting up a finger to say he’ll be a minute.
I find mine to send Rey my apologies.
Hi, Alice, I’m so sorry, but I can’t meet you today. I hope you will forgive me for not being there as you expected, but I promise I will make it up to you. I need some time.
I watch as she pulls the phone out of her purse, and how the corners of her mouth dip when she reads. She bites her bottom lip and puts a hand to her eyes.
Damn, I want to wrap her in my arms, not stand here and watch as my alter ego makes her upset.
Okay. I can’t say I’m not disappointed. But I’ll be here when you’re ready
“Hey, I’ve got to go. I’m sorry,” Aiden says. “Have you decided?”
