Right Billionaire, Wrong Wedding (Sexy Billionaires)(36)
“Whatever he’s offering you, my dear, I’ll do better.”
She knew the words were simple banter. They’d dealt together more than a few times, after all.
“Really?” she teased. “I need to get that in writing.”
“Just say the word.” His business card was in his fingers, held out toward her.
Not wanting to be rude, she accepted the offering. Not that she’d entertain the notion. To jump from Darian to one of his competitors? He’d never forgive her for that.
“Are you ready for today?” she asked.
John ran a hand through his blond hair. “Personally? I’d rather sell to anyone else.”
“But in terms of business?”
“King is the best option. Even I see it.”
She smiled. “It’s a good deal all around.”
“Especially for the golden boy who sees the potential for profit before the rest of us.” He shook his head. “How does he do it?”
“If I knew, I’d be running my own company,” she replied.
“And showing us how it’s done, no doubt.” He leaned closer. “Tell me what I can do to steal you away.”
“You’re just after me because it would annoy Darian.”
John didn’t even have the decency to look shamefaced. “That’s part of it.”
“Well, go bother someone else. I’m happy here.”
“Are you?” He pinned her with a steady gaze. “Because I heard you might be window shopping.”
She froze. “Where did you hear that?”
“Around. But if it’s true, I hope you will consider my organization before knocking on any other doors.”
“The rumors are wrong this time,” she said stiffly.
He inclined his head. “If you say so. Now, I really should be getting to King. Lord knows I don’t want to prolong his victory.”
“Of course. Let me walk you in.”
She led him from her office and down the short hall. After a sharp rap on Darian’s door, she turned the knob and pushed inside.
“Mr. Thompson to see you,” she said, ushering John inside.
With a final wink at her, he walked into the office.
Darian gave her a half smile as she closed the door.
Walking back to her desk, she told herself she’d never work for John. Yes, his company might be a touch smaller, but no doubt her responsibilities would be similar. If she left Darian, it would be for a more radical change. Maybe she’d go into non-profit. Or a startup needing a little expertise. Whatever she chose it would be a job that allowed her the life she’d been denying herself for years.
And nothing would stop her.
Chapter Nine
“This really is a beautiful location,” Allison said as they sat down at the table.
It had been a long ride to Sahra, but Darian thought a tasting appointment in this perfect location was a wonderful way to cap off an otherwise dull Wednesday.
“We chose well,” he agreed. “Fingers crossed the food matches the setting.”
Allison pulled out a notepad and pen. She was nothing if not prepared. “If the caterers aren’t up to par, we’re going to be in trouble.”
“Let’s hope it doesn’t come to that.”
“Happy thoughts?”
“Precisely.”
Sam appeared at their table, beaming at them. “We’re thrilled to have you here,” he said. “I assure you this event will be spectacular.”
“Let’s focus on the food for now,” Darian replied.
“Of course. As you know, we’ve worked with our usual chef to fit you into the schedule. As per your instructions, the kitchen has been preparing food with a French twist.”
“And it will be a sit-down meal, not finger foods,” Allison said.
“Absolutely. If you are ready, I’ll send out your choices for appetizers.”
“Please.” Darian shook out his napkin and placed it across his lap.
Sam hurried away, leaving them alone in the massive reception hall.
“If either of us knew how to waltz, this would be the perfect practice spot,” she said.
“It wasn’t taught in business school.” Thank God. He could only imagine how many toes he would have stepped on.
“Well, you know what they say about good dancers.”
He glanced up from the place card detailing the meal progression. Reaching for her glass of wine, she met his eyes. “Good in bed.”
The ever-present need bubbled up in him. If they were alone in a bedroom, he’d show her just how much he desired her. The past few days had been hell trying to last through endless hours of work when he knew he could be falling into bed with Allison.
A pastime he far preferred.