Her wide eyes had conveyed the blow he’d delivered. His heart had begged him to recall the words and tell her how much he wanted her, needed her, but his mind stayed in complete control. He’d turned his back on her and pretended interest in a book on his desk, unable to endure the tears in her eyes.
He’d heard rather than seen her stumble out the room as his heart broke.
It had been the lowest moment of his life, and he’d never apologized for his choice. Or comforted her with the honesty of how he’d really felt about her. She’d been the most beautiful woman he’d ever laid eyes on. She still was. Probably always would be. But he couldn’t have her.
She’d never hear his words of apology. Not only wouldn’t she believe it after all this time, but he didn’t need her softening toward him. Having her like him and making him fall for her again would be detrimental for them both. It had been tough getting over her, and he didn’t need a repeat.
Other than maintaining his relationship with his best friend, he was keeping her out of harm’s way. His life was all about being in the public eye. She wouldn’t be able to handle the spiteful women calling her vicious names just because she walked at his side. The media could be cruel. Even to him. He’d developed a tough skin, but it would crush her.
He waited to see if she’d recognize him. His heart stuttered the moment cognizance hit her and she grinned. For the second time in his life, she’d seen right through to him.
* * *
Despite being dressed as if he’d shopped in a thrift store, with a fedora covering his curly locks and his eyes darker than she’d ever seen them, she’d found him. He’d even shaved off his goatee and slapped on a mustache for the occasion. No one had rushed to the famous Astacio to become one of his groupies, so he’d fooled everyone else.
She crossed the floor to his side and leaned into him to shout in his ear over the blaring music. “Hi.”
His crooked grin as he looked down at her flipped her stomach. “Sweet meeting you here. How’s tricks, foxy lady?”
She placed a hand over her mouth to stifle her laughter. “I wonder if anyone knows Billy Dee Williams is in the house. With that mustache and darker complexion, you look like a younger version of him.” He knew how to play a role and how to emphasize his most attractive features. His full dusky-pink lips brought to mind memories of when they’d made hers bend to his will, and without warning, she felt a need to taste them again. She sobered quickly. They weren’t here to have a good time. Getting her out of debt was the name of this game.
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