

Something Great

by

M. Clarke

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are products of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously and are not to be construed as real. Any resemblance to actual events, locations, organizations, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.

Copyright © M. Clarke 2013

Smashwords Edition

First Edition M. Clarke July 24, 2013

Second Edition M. Clarke 2014

Smashwords Licensing Notes

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in articles and reviews.

To my husband,

You're my something great!

### Table of Contents

Prologue

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Chapter 32

Chapter 33

Chapter 34

Chapter 35

Chapter 36

Bonus Page

Dedications

About the Author

### Prologue

I couldn't wait to see Peter.

As I entered my apartment, I planned my surprise dinner for him. Wanting this evening to be amazing, I'd ditched my psychology class.

I had never skipped class before, but there was always a first.

Peter and I had been dating for almost a year. He was perfect in every way: charming, sweet, and incredibly good-looking. I'd usually avoid his type—the dangerous bad boy who knew how to smooth-talk his way into your pants—but luckily, Peter had been gentle, loving, and faithful. He was the full handsome package.

The loud moans from my roommate's room signified one thing: she was having sex again. This wouldn't be the first time I'd come home to find her with a guy in her room. Fortunately she kept her door closed.

Cassandra habitually slept with various men just for her pleasure. I had never said anything to her about it since she was single and always respected my privacy. Who was I to judge or tell her what to do?

I quietly went to my room, hoping I'd gotten home at the tail end of it. Trying to distract myself, I took out my textbook and started to read, but it didn't help. Their noisy sex turned me on.

Heat flushed through my body. _Oh my God._ It sounded like a porn film, not that I'd watched one before.

I needed to get out of the apartment.

Just as I reached for the doorknob, the creaking of the bed and the headboard banging on the wall stopped. I debated whether to bolt out the front door or stay put, but decided to see what they would do first.

I tiptoed to my desk, trying not to make a sound. But what I heard next froze me in place, and my heart shattered to shard pieces.

The bedroom door creaked open, followed by Cassandra's voice, "Peter. You don't have to leave. She won't be here for two more hours. She's in class right now."

What did she just say?

My heart thumped into overdrive and blood drained from my face. Hoping I'd misheard her, I walked closer to the door.

"I can't be here when she gets home."

"Aww, come on. How about round two?" Cassandra cooed.

Their voices grew louder. They had to be right by my door. And that was definitely Peter's voice.

What the hell?

It couldn't be true.

As if someone had just punched me in the stomach, I wrapped my arms around myself as I tried not to drop to the floor. The shock of what I'd heard stole my air. My body shuddered with hurt and anger as I continued to listen.

"I would love to, but I can't. I need to run a couple of errands before I come back. What if she comes home early?"

"It never stopped you before. We've been doing this for a couple of months, and she's never come home early. You should know by now how she is—the good girl, always follows the rules—the boring type. When are you going to tell her you don't want to see her anymore?"

As their kissing and pecking sounds filled my ears, I backed up against the wall. Their words sank in and tears filled my eyes.

I was the good girl—stupid good girl—who should be mad as hell. I should bolt from my room and give them a piece of my mind, but I couldn't.

I hated confrontation. I would pretend it never happened rather than face them.

I had thought Peter was the ideal boyfriend. I took a chance on a man who had the reputation of being a player, thinking I'd prove everyone wrong and show them a good-looking guy could have a serious, long-lasting relationship.

As my body shook and tears streamed down my face, I had to make a decision—stay there and wait for Peter to leave or face them.

When the door closed and I didn't hear voices, I decided to get the hell out of there. Wiping my tears, I quietly walked out of my bedroom to find Peter by the sofa.

Our eyes locked. Our faces mirrored the same shock. The dagger in my heart twisted painfully, cutting deeper.

"Jenna." He cleared his throat. "How long—"

"No. You don't get to ask me anything." My lips quivered just as bad as my hands. I wanted to take my backpack with me, but I couldn't stomach to be anywhere near him, so I stepped sideways to the front door.

"Jenna. Please let me explain."

Explain what?

I didn't want to hear all the lies he would feed me. "How could you do this? You were my first. I gave you all of me—everything."

Surprisingly, he looked apologetic, but I didn't care.

"Stop," I snapped when he began to approach me. I wanted to call him every existing curse word and tell him how much he'd hurt me, but I couldn't. "I don't ever want to see you again. There is nothing you can do to fix this."

Uncontrollable tears poured down my face. I hated crying in front of him. Crying proved he hurt me. I deserved better and I would not let him get the best of me.

"Jenna, it's not what you think."

I huffed a heavy sigh. _Did he think I was that stupid?_ "I'm an idiot for falling for you, but you can give me more credit than that."

Peter had crushed my heart and shattered it into a million pieces. He broke me that day, broke me and changed me forever. Trust would never come easily again. From that moment on, I would guard my heart and always take the safe road.

Without looking back, I ran out the door.

I never saw Peter again. As for Cassandra, we weren't that close to begin with. Because of her lifestyle and how different we were, I hadn't made an effort to become good friends, but I never thought she would sink that low.

I learned a hard lesson that day. Some girls would do anything to get what they wanted, even if it meant hurting other people.

### Chapter 1

A Few Years Later

"You're staring," I said.

"I can't help it." Becky continued to smile at a stranger, flirtatiously batting her eyelashes and pulling a strand of her light-brown hair behind her ear. "He's cute, and he's looking right at me."

"But you think a lot of guys are cute."

She took a sip of her martini. "It's probably the alcohol making me say those words."

Becky and I had been roommates since my senior year in college. Our living arrangement continued after graduation, which was pretty cool considering the expenses that went with living in an apartment near the beach.

I had to say, it was an added benefit having your best friend live with you—Sometimes.

Though Becky and I shared an apartment, we saw much less of each other when our schedules got busy. It was nice to be able to go out to dinner together, even in the middle of the week. We were both tired, but our friendship meant more than a little rest.

Becky checked behind her, then turned back to face me. "Twelve o'clock your time. You see him?"

Trying not to make it obvious, especially since he'd caught my eye after Becky turned around, I peeked again. "He's okay." I shrugged.

"You have such high standards. I don't get you. Not to be mean, but you can do so much better than what's-his-face."

"You've told me that like a million times."

"Oh, is that all? And I still can't get it through your thick skull." She snorted.

"He's not that bad." I pouted, circling the rim of the glass with my index finger.

Becky's eyes moved again. Starting from the back of the room, her gaze stopped right behind me. "Oh my, talk about eye candy. Now, you can't say this one isn't good-looking because he just knocked the others out of the water. I need to cool off. Perhaps he should cool me off."

"Yeah, yeah, yeah," I grumbled. _Here she goes again_.

"Look behind you," she ordered, taking another drink from her martini.

"No."

"Why not? Afraid you may like what you see?"

"Becky, it doesn't matter if he's cute. I'm not a cheater. I'm not here to catch a guy's attention. I'm here to be with you. Just because you're not happy, don't think I'm not."

Then I saw the look in her eyes, the one that said I'd gone too far. My mom used to say, "Think before you speak because words can hurt, and you can't take back what you've said. The damage has already been done."

I hadn't meant to hurt her. In fact, it had just slipped out. Since the day I started seeing Luke, she'd told me nonstop how much he didn't deserve me.

Yes, she cared for me like a sister, but enough was enough. We were both adults, and I made my own decisions. Even my parents didn't tell me who to date.

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to say that. It's not what I meant," I said.

"If you're sorry, then look behind you."

"What?"

Becky crossed her arms. "I won't ever ask you to look after this."

With a heavy sigh, I turned. With perfect timing, his eyes caught mine and they stayed locked for what seemed like an eternity—hypnotized.

My heart skipped a beat and I forgot to breathe. _Turn away_ , I told myself, but I didn't.

My heart lurched and fell into my stomach. Heat like I'd never felt before flushed my face. Dangerous tingles awakened every part of me. He had some strange hold on me, and I didn't know if I liked the feeling at all.

He was gorgeous, about six feet tall with broad shoulders, and wearing dark slacks—I couldn't tell what specific color, but who cared. His pin-striped dress shirt was unbuttoned at the sleeves and rolled neatly about a quarter of the way up his arms. Eye candy, all right. Leaning back against the bar in a cool, relaxed manner, he was likely there to wind down after work.

I finally managed to turn back around and face my friend who raised one eyebrow as if to say "I told you so."

"Breathe," she mouthed, curling her lips into a huge smile.

"He's cute. I'll admit it. So what?"

"Cute? You used the wrong word. He's hot."

Becky was right, but I didn't want to admit it. I turned my attention elsewhere, but my heart continued to beat a mile a minute.

Why did he have that effect on me? I had never seen anyone like him—exhilarating and dangerous at the same time.

Peering over at my friend after the heat on my face cooled, I wanted to take a gulp of her drink but couldn't—I was allergic to alcohol—so I sipped my soda instead.

When I did drink, a rare occasion, I had a continuous urge to urinate and my whole body turned red, literally from head to toe, like I had a bad sunburn. Not to mention, it only took a few sips to become tipsy. Yup, alcohol knocked me on my butt, and so did that stranger.

"Want me to invite him over here?" Becky offered.

"No." I frowned. "We don't know him."

"Who cares?"

"If you want to invite him, then it's up to you since you're interested, not me." Heat rushed over me again. Staring down at my drink, I tried to think of something else besides the hunk standing by the bar.

"Darn." Becky sounded upset.

"What?"

"I think he has a girlfriend. A blonde just cozied up to him and kissed him."

Without thinking, I turned to find his back turned to me, and sure enough, there she was. Disappointment enveloped me.

What was I thinking? I had a boyfriend. Well, not really a boyfriend; we'd only been dating a month, but guilt swept through me.

"He's just one fish in the ocean. There'll be others for you to catch." I gulped down my beverage. The icy, cool drink helped me temporarily, but the waves of heat kept coming back, so I changed the subject and hoped they would disappear. "So, how's work?"

"I just got a ton of new submissions. It's never ending. I'm excited about a few of them, but I also need a break from reading."

"You always say that, but then you drown yourself in the stories."

"I do, don't I?" She laughed. "Books are like picking ice cream flavors. Not everyone likes vanilla. The key is to find the flavor that is currently popular, and that determines which authors I take my chances on."

"You've been doing well so far."

"I had some hits and a few misses, but I have to admit, I enjoy what I do. So tell me, how's the job hunting?"

"Did I tell you I have an interview next week?"

Becky peered over my head. "No, you didn't, but that's great. I know how much you hate your job. I'm so glad we're catching up."

"I don't hate it, but I need something different. I really hope I get this one." I paused. Becky seemed to be only half listening to me. "What are you doing? Are you staring at them again?"

She ignored my question and gave me a beaming smile. "Look behind you—no, don't look behind you."

"Are you okay?" I let out a small laugh.

Becky leaned closer toward me, like she wanted to tell me a secret. "The blonde walked away. She probably went to the bathroom."

"So, your point being?"

"He's leaning against the bar, but he's gawking right at you."

I busted out laughing, but I tensed at the thought of his eyes on me.

"He could be looking at someone near me. Why would he be looking at me? For goodness sake, stop staring."

"You think I'm making this up." She waved to the waitress coming our way. "One more please." She held up her glass. "Thanks, and we'd like the menu too, please. Actually, are you ready to order?"

I nodded. "The same as usual."

"I'll have the fish taco combo and she'll have the chicken salad."

After the waitress repeated the order she walked away.

"I don't know how you have the same thing every time we come here," Becky said.

"I don't know. I just like it. And that's what I feel like having again. What is it, pick on Jenna day?"

"No, sorry," she said sheepishly. "Anyway, just to prove my point, I dare you to turn around."

"No." I leaned back with my arms crossed.

"For someone so sweet, who never cusses, plays by the rules, and orders the same thing every time, you sure can be stubborn."

"Well, I can't be all good." I smirked.

"Turn around before she comes back."

"No." I held my ground.

"Ugh. If I'm wrong then I owe you a favor, but if you're wrong you owe me one."

That sounded like a safe bet because surely she was wrong. Why would he be staring at my back?

"Fine." I turned.

My heart skipped a beat, and then pounded in my chest. The familiar warmth flooded all over my body. When our eyes connected, he raised his bottle of beer and gave me a delicious smile that melted deep within.

I didn't even know if I smiled back, but I somehow managed to turn back around. It didn't matter anyway because a guy like that was trouble, big trouble, just like Peter.

He couldn't be trusted, Anyone that damn good-looking probably had an ego as big as the restaurant.

I judged him even though I didn't know him, but it didn't matter. I was dating Luke. At least he wasn't trouble.

At some point in my jumbled thinking, I had to glance up at my friend, whose feet tapped on the wooden floor.

"Okay. You win."

"By the way, I can't wait to cash in the favor."

"Great." I rolled my eyes. "I can hardly wait."

### Chapter 2

Warmth caressed my face as I stretched my arms to the ceiling. The sun's rays cascaded into my room, making it appear as though heaven's light cradled me. Mesmerized, I bathed in the beauty.

The open shutters I had forgotten to close the night before revealed it would be a beautiful day. Yesterday had been dark and gloomy, but today the sun flexed its muscles.

Los Angeles was like that. Even in the fall, it felt like spring.

Thoughts of the guy I'd seen at the restaurant the previous week had faded. I couldn't remember what he looked like anymore, only how he'd made me feel. I had forced him out of my mind. Thinking of someone else while dating Luke seemed wrong. I wouldn't want Luke to be thinking of another girl.

Luke and I had met through work. He owned a fabric dying business. His company became one of the clients I managed, so we spoke to each other often on the phone.

Our company bought fabric from companies like his, then sold it to clothing companies or designers. Basically, our company was the middleman, and I negotiated prices and made sure everything happened in a timely manner.

Lately, I'd become bored with my job. I needed more challenge, more excitement, and more from my everyday routine life. It was time to move on if I wanted to grow in my area of expertise.

My boss understood. I was good at what I did and he knew it. My salary wasn't great, just enough to pay the bills, so I lived from paycheck-to-paycheck. That was another reason I needed to move on.

Excited about my upcoming interview, I lay in bed enjoying the sun, when—

" _Ahhh!"_ I bolted out of bed to check my cell phone. It read seven in the morning, and my interview was at eight thirty. I couldn't believe I had slept through the alarm.

I jumped into the shower. After dashing out, I brushed my teeth and pulled my hair into a high ponytail. I applied just enough makeup and then got dressed: a dark-gray pencil skirt, a white blouse, and a thick gray sweater to match the skirt.

Breakfast was out of the question as I darted from my bedroom. Becky had already left. She must have had an early meeting, or maybe she'd gone to the gym.

Clutching my leather workbag, I dashed out the door in record time.

As I stood at the entrance just before opening the double glass doors, I tilted my head back to gaze up at the tall building in the middle of downtown Los Angeles. Excitement and nervousness bubbled in my center.

_Breathe_ , I told myself as I walked in.

I rode the elevator up and stepped out onto polished, cream-colored twenty-eighth floor. I didn't like to compare, but my current place of employment was nothing like this.

A lady about my age walked out at the same time I did and trailed behind me. Perhaps she was my competition for the job.

The sunlight beaming through the clear glass window caught my eye first. It covered the entire back wall.

What a fantastic view of downtown LA.

The receptionist sitting behind a semi-circular desk peered through her glasses at me. She'd obviously heard the embarrassing clicking noise of my heels, which made me feel like an elephant. With her hair tied up, she seemed sharp and businesslike.

"Good morning. How may I help you?"

"I have an eight thirty interview."

"Your name?"

"My name is Jeanella Mefferd."

She checked the list. "Ah yes. There you are. Please have a seat. We're a little behind schedule."

Smiling, I eased my shoulders to find a seat. Since they were behind, it would allow me to give more thought to the questions I may be asked.

As I waited patiently, I checked out my competition from the corner of my eye. Dressed in a black dress suit, she appeared confident, and I was somewhat intimidated by her. She probably had more experience, or maybe that was just my own insecurities.

Who was I kidding? There must have been tons of applicants. What made me special? What made me stand out from the rest?

The air around me chilled, and it seemed less sunny outside. I had to stop thinking negative thoughts or I wouldn't make it through the interview.

Sitting next to a stranger was bad enough, but sitting next to my competition unnerved me. She was calm and collected, whereas I fidgeted in my seat.

I pulled out my cell phone to distract myself. There were several texts I had missed. The first one was from Becky.

Good luck and let me know how it went. XO

Me: _I will._

Then Kate's: _Go Jenna!_

Me: _Haha. Thx._

Then I read the one from Nicole: _You'll do great._

Me: _Thank you._

Though I was excited to get texts from my friends, Luke hadn't sent one. Maybe he would call me later.

"Ms. Mefferd."

I peered up, my pulse racing faster than it ever had except for the time I saw _him_. _Oh God. Why was I thinking of him at a time like this?_ Funny, it actually helped me to calm down. Okay. I can do this.

"Yes?" I turned to the receptionist to get more direction.

She pointed. "They're ready for you. It's the first door on your right."

"Thanks," I said and headed to what was hopefully my future.

This interview would make me or break me—well, maybe not break me.

Please, let me get this job.

Three pairs of eyes settled on me as I walked toward a rectangular table.

"Good morning." I smiled, clicking of my own heels reverberating in the room.

"Good morning," they said in accord.

There were two men and one woman, and they each had their wooden nameplates in front of them. Feeling a bit flushed, I tried to take several discreet deep breaths as I sat and placed my workbag next to me on the floor.

"Ms. Mefferd, why don't you tell us a little about yourself?" the lady in the center asked.

I hated that question. _Why do they have to ask this question at every interview?_

"I was born and raised in Los Angeles. My résumé, which you have in front of you, lists the schools and colleges I've attended, along with my extracurricular activities." I paused, thinking I may have given too much pointless information. _Focus._ "After graduation, I went to work at Tom Bradley Fabric Company. I'm still employed there, but they know about the interview today."

"Yes. We've already placed a phone call," Mr. Miles said. "He speaks highly of you. From what I can see on your résumé, you've played many roles at that company."

Mr. Miles's words sparked confidence in me. I beamed a smile and my tone became different—stronger, full of conviction.

"Yes. Not only do I work with clients, I am also the assistant director of the Human Resources Department. Benefits and workers' compensation are my specialties, along with customer relations."

"Ms. Mefferd," the other gentleman said, "we know what we are looking for. The question is, what are you looking for?"

I had never been asked that question before. What did I want?

"Mr. Miles, Mr. Cole, Ms. Simmons"—I gazed into their eyes, one person at a time as I spoke their names—"I want to work for a company that is fair, where I can learn, grow, and challenge myself to be better. I want to give my all to a company that will treat me like part of their family."

Silence.

For a few seconds, I could hear the wind whistling outside the window. Not one of them made eye contact with me. _Did I say something wrong?_

If the sun hadn't been beaming through the window, I certainly would have been shivering.

Several more rounds of questions followed, mostly about what I did for my current employer and how long I had worked there. The interview went far longer than I had expected. I was light-headed from not eating breakfast and just wanted it to be over.

"Ms. Mefferd, we wish to fill this position as soon as possible," Ms. Simmons said. "We also have a long list of candidates, so it may take a week. If we decide your qualifications meet our standards, you'll be hearing from our Human Resources Department. Thank you for your time."

I stood up and shook their hands, giving each of them a smile. "Thank you so much." Then I walked out as softly as I could.

Darn these heels.

### Chapter 3

Optimistic about the interview, I decided to celebrate by treating myself to breakfast. I thought I had done well, but you never know about these things.

The last time I was confident about an interview, I never got a phone call. Whatever happened, at least I'd given it my best. Still, if I didn't get this job, I would be disappointed.

Who was I kidding? I would be devastated.

First things first, I needed to eat. My head pounded, an indication I needed food. I had been unable to eat much the previous night due to anxiety about the interview.

Recalling a coffee shop I had seen earlier, I decided to head in that direction. I didn't have to be back to work until after lunch. A warm muffin and coffee would surely hit the spot.

Strolling down the sidewalk, I inhaled a deep, cool breath. People walked on either side of me, but I didn't pay attention to them. I focused on finding the coffee shop instead.

Finally: Café Express.

When I entered through the double glass doors, I noted the shop was packed with customers, but many of them were leaving. I must have just missed the morning rush.

The short line put a smile on my face as I stepped behind a man. Everything on the breakfast menu sounded delicious. _Decisions, decisions. What do I order?_

The guy in front of me took so long that I began to glance around the room, looking at the unique fixtures on the wall. Small paintings and cute little mugs of various sizes and designs added a nice touch to the ambiance.

Just as I finished taking in the decor, I froze. Heat zapped through my body. Sitting under a shelf full of butterfly mugs, I saw _him_. I hadn't thought about him for days, and there he was, all dressed up in his suit and tie.

His eyes beamed as they pierced through me. Radiating an irresistible grin, he appeared surprised. I didn't know if he was smiling at me so I glanced over my shoulder to what might have caught his eye, but there was nothing but the paintings I had been admiring earlier.

Without thinking, I turned back to face him. He lifted his cup of coffee with a flirty twitch of his eyebrows. I gasped inwardly and took a step to my right, knowing the man in front of me had finished paying for his drink.

Something scorching hot splashed over my hand. My eyes followed my workbag as it fell to the floor and landed in a pool of brown liquid.

"Watch it, lady," the man snapped, cursing beneath his breath, and brushing at the soon-to-be stain on his light-gray suit.

"I'm so sorry," I apologized repeated.

Without a care for my bag or the rude man, I brushed at the wetness that burned my skin. Frowning, I brushed it harder as if that would make the pain go away.

Then a deep, soothing male voice I didn't recognize beckoned me out of my fog.

"Excuse me, but you owe this beautiful lady an apology." His tone was strong and demanding.

I peered up at _him_ standing in front of me, blocking half of my view, as if to protect me with his body. Silence filled the air in the coffee shop. Most likely everyone felt the tension as we waited to see if the guy would apologize. If he didn't, what would _he_ do?

"I'm sorry," the guy grumbled through his teeth and walked out the door.

He turned to me. "Are you okay?"

"I'm okay. Thank you, but it was my own fault. I wasn't looking." I wanted to tell him it was his fault for distracting me, but I held tongue.

Surprisingly, he grabbed my hand and examined it. His touch felt as light as a feather, but his warmth penetrated my skin, spreading heat all over me.

"Ice," he said to the cashier, still holding my hand. At his command, one of the cashiers blinked and went to the backroom. "It's not bad, but you should put ice on it just in case."

I crumbled from his touch, slowly pulled my hand away, and peered up into his soft-brown eyes. I swallowed a nervous lump in my throat.

"Thank you for your help, but I'm fine, really."

The cashier came back with a bag of ice and placed it in front of him. "Thank you," he said.

Without asking for my hand, he snatched it and placed the bag of ice on top of it.

Smack in the middle of the shop, there we stood, attracting attention. By then, most of the customers were minding their own business, but a few still watched us curiously.

Not knowing what else to do, I accepted his help by placing my other hand on top of the ice bag. "Thank you. You've been too kind."

He took several napkins and started to wipe up the liquid clinging to the bottom of my workbag and some that had splashed on the sides. Had he been holding it the whole time? He was so sweet, yet I didn't even know his name.

"Thank you, but I can do it."

When I leaned toward him to retrieve my bag, my heels slipped on the wet floor. Before I could make a fool of myself, he caught me in his arms. In his embrace, I didn't want to be let go.

As I stared into those eyes, time stood still. The coffee grinder, the cash register, the voices from the customers, all faded.

I heard nothing but the sound of his breathing, and I felt nothing but his hot breath touching my face and the frenzied beating of my heart. Then Luke's face appeared in my mind.

With a great amount of effort, I released myself from his hold, recaptured my bag, thanked him once more, and rushed out of the shop without looking back.

Hunger was no longer on my mind. His voice calling me beautiful echoed in my mind, and his kindness had satisfied my heart and my stomach.

### Chapter 4

"Over here." Becky waved her hand from a distance.

"My friend is already seated," I explained to the hostess. She gave me a warm smile and gestured for me to go.

I weaved around the tables and spotted Nicole and Kate with Becky. Nicole and Becky wore their work clothes, but Kate was dressed in casual attire.

It had been a couple of months since the four of us had gone out together. Days turned into weeks and weeks turned into months as life sped by. We all stayed busy with our own lives. In college, it was easier to get together under the same roof.

After hugs and kisses to each of them, I sat on my chair.

"Sorry I'm late. I had to catch up on my work since I was out half the day," I said.

"So how was your interview?" Nicole asked, taking a sip of her water.

"I think I did okay, but you can never be sure with these things. I thought I had a terrible interview with my current job, but then I got the offer."

"True," Becky said.

The conversation stopped when the waitress came by.

"Hello." She smiled at me. "Looks like everyone is here. May I take your order?"

After we ordered she left.

"Anyway, it's not the end of the world if I don't get it," I continued. I gazed at my friends who listened intently and gave me the "I know you're lying" look. "Okay. It will be the end of the world if I don't get it. I've had my eye on that company for so long." Exhaling a heavy sigh, I plopped my head on my crossed arms.

"It's okay, Jenna. Think positive. There'll be other opportunities if you don't get this one. If the timing is right, it will happen. Everything falls into place the way it's meant to be. Geez, I sound like a Hallmark card. Maybe I should write a book," Becky snorted.

I strongly believed what she'd said, but I needed to hear it from a friend. I sat tall and smiled, brightening the mood at the table. "So, how was everyone's day?"

"Breastfeeding and feeling like a cow." Kate shrugged.

We all broke into laughter, but Becky laughed a little harder. Liquid sprinkled out of her mouth from trying to hold it in. "I'm so sorry," she laughed, dabbing the table with her white linen napkin. Thank goodness dinner hadn't arrived yet.

"It's fine," Kate continued. "I get spit on by Kristen all the time. I'm used to it."

Kate was the first one of our group to get married and the first one to have a baby. Getting pregnant was one of the reasons she'd married her college boyfriend. I still remembered her beautiful wedding as if it had happened yesterday.

Becky and I were bridesmaids and Nicole was her maid of honor. Having been placed in a group project together in college had brought our little band together.

"That's all I do all day long: feed, burp, diaper change, and clean spit-up. Don't get me wrong, I love my baby, but I'm so glad I'm here with all of you. I miss just hanging out," Kate added. The wetness in her eyes made them twinkle. "We should do this more often."

"We need to set the next date now," Becky suggested, taking out her cell phone. "Because"—she paused as she clicked away—"we talk about it all the time, but it's difficult and time just flies by. Next thing you know, months have gone by."

The rest of us took out our cell phones and marked the agreed date on our calendars. After about fifteen minutes, the waitress came back with our dinners.

Becky and I had both ordered the same seafood salad, Kate got the seafood linguini, and Nicole had salmon with assorted vegetables.

"Becky told us you're seeing someone," Kate announced. "What's his name, what does he do? Give us the details."

I shot my eyes to Becky, then shifted my gaze to Nicole and Kate. "His name is Luke, and I met him about a month ago. His company is one of the ones I handle. He's cute and nice." I didn't have much to say after that.

"Do we get to meet him?" Kate twirled the linguini around her fork.

"I met him already," Becky said in a sing-song voice. "But he's not good enough for her."

I nudged Becky on the shoulder and gave her a daggered eye.

Becky sighed. "You need to date around. Don't be exclusive with him. If you don't, you won't know what you're missing, like that guy we saw last week. You need to do this while you're young and not officially in a relationship. I know you don't have much experience, but that's okay. Our little Miss Innocent here is finally venturing out."

"Let me ask you this." Kate leaned over. "When you kiss him, do you see fireworks?"

Becky and Kate giggled, but Nicole kept unusually quiet. She stabbed broccoli with her fork but she didn't eat it. While our plates were already a quarter of the way empty, she had hardly touched her food.

"Well?" Kate raised her brows, demanding an answer.

I didn't say a word. I didn't have to. My roommate answered for me since I had already told her practically everything.

"She hasn't even kissed him yet," Becky shared.

"Really?" Kate's eyes rounded.

"You know how Jenna is," Becky reminded them. "She's careful. She's safe. She's not like us. I've kissed guys on the first date. I've even had one-night stands."

"In my defense." I padded a finger on my chest. "We've only been out like four times. I'm seeing him again on Friday night. Maybe I'll let him kiss me then."

"That's like three days away. I want to meet the guy who might have finally stolen Jenna's heart. Can I come?" Kate snickered, her eyelashes batting.

Becky and I flashed our eyes at her at the same time.

"I'm just joking. I'm just so excited for Jenna," Kate continued. "It's been so long." She paused and cringed. _"Oh no._ My nipples are hard and my breasts feel like water balloons ready to burst." Kate started eating a bit faster. "I'm going to have to go soon."

"But you just got here," I pouted.

"I know, but when they get really full, they hurt, and then I start leaking. The joys of breastfeeding."

"Wow. Sounds like something I may not want to do." Becky stuck her fork into her shrimp and shoved it in her mouth.

"You say that now, but just wait until you have the little one in your arms," Kate gushed. "It's just the most wonderful feeling you'll ever know—well, next to sex, of course."

We laughed, but when Nicole didn't join in, it was evident something was wrong.

"Nicole, are you okay?" I asked.

Nicole's eyes focused on the table as tears dotted her cheeks. "Keith broke up with me."

"Awww, Nicole." Kate wrapped her arms around her.

Nicole had been dating Keith for about a year after meeting him at work. Actually, he was one of her bosses at a huge insurance company. In a way, I'd had a feeling it wouldn't last.

Keith wasn't the type of guy to settle down. How did I know this without meeting him? Because there were two types of guys: the ones who would break your heart and the ones who would treasure it.

"What happened?" Becky placed her fork down.

Nicole finally took a breather and wiped her tears. "Actually, I broke up with him. He didn't ever want to get married, so I left him. Why would he just drag out our relationship if he never wanted more?"

I wanted to comfort her, but I was on the opposite side of the table so I tried my best to bolster her spirits with a soft smile.

"It's okay," Kate assured. "It's better you know now."

"Okay," Becky said loudly. "Next Saturday, everyone at our place for dinner. We're getting Nicole wasted."

Kate headed back home to feed her two-month-old, while Becky and I stayed to console Nicole.

### Chapter 5

Thank God it was Friday.

When I entered our apartment Becky was already home.

"Hey." She popped out of the kitchen with an apple in her hand, eyeing my chest. "I love the delicate ruffles on your sweater."

"You can borrow it if you like."

Her lips spread into a smile. "I'll let you know. So, when is Luke picking you up?"

I watched her take a bite. Apples had never looked so good. I guess I was hungry and hadn't realized it until then. "Got another one?"

She went back to the kitchen and tossed one to me.

"Thanks. Mmm, good," I managed to say while I chewed, and then I remembered her question. "Luke is picking me up in an hour."

Taking another bite of her apple, she leaned against the wall by the TV. It wasn't a big TV, but it was big enough for our relatively small apartment. She drew her eyebrows together, most likely trying to think of something to say.

"Have a great time and give me details tomorrow."

My mouth was full, but I spoke anyway. "What details? We're just going out to dinner. I'm not sleeping with him."

"That's fine, but you're gonna kiss him, right?" Her tone sounded muffled from chewed-up apple.

"What?" My tone went up a notch. "I'm not making the first move."

Her eyes sparkled. "I had a feeling you'd say that. He will and when he does, you'll know if you feel fireworks."

My lips parted to say something but stopped when our landline phone rang. Becky beat me to it.

"Hello...yes. Hold on a minute please." She gazed at me with a questioning look. "It's for you."

During the week, I'd been trying to forget about my interview. I had a strange feeling it wasn't a personal call. Swallowing a nervous lump in my throat, I answered.

"Hello, this is Jeanella Mefferd. Yes...yes...sure. No problem. I can do that. Thank you so much."

I hung up with a frown. Becky had been staring at me the whole time as if she knew. Perhaps the speaker had told her what company she was from.

"It's okay." She pulled me into a hug. "There'll be other jobs, I promise."

I couldn't hold it in any longer. Not only was I a bad liar, I couldn't fake disappointment too long. "I got the job!" I squealed at the top of my lungs.

Becky pulled back, squinting in surprise. "You..." She socked me lightly in the arm. "Congrats." She pulled me in again and squeezed me tightly.

"Ahhh, I can't believe it. I thought they would take at least another week to decide."

"When do you start?"

"They said as soon as possible. I'll have to go in and talk about details."

Still floating from the awesome news, I plopped myself onto the sofa. Becky threw her apple core away and then came back and sank down next to me.

Glaring at my sweater she hissed, "You're not wearing that tonight, are you?"

For a second I had forgotten I had a date, and I stared at my half-eaten apple. "Should I wear something else? I thought you liked my sweater."

As if she had sat on a pin, she jolted up and pulled me to her bedroom. "You need to wear something else if you want him to make the first move."

Becky's room mirrored mine—fairly simple. A queen-sized bed sat in the middle of her room, a tall wooden dresser stood in the corner, and a small desk nestled on the opposite side of the dresser.

The dresser was adorned with several Swarovski crystal picture frames I had given her for her last birthday. I'd added a picture of us to one of the frames.

Another one held a shot of our band of friends—Nicole, Kate, Becky, and me. The third frame had a picture of her parents and her younger sister.

One positive thing about our apartment, we each had our own bathroom, but the downside was when our guests needed to use one, they had to go through our rooms.

Rummaging through the closet, sliding hanger after hanger aside, she pulled out a black dress. "Here. This is the perfect dress. He won't be able to resist you in this."

I shook my head vigorously. "No way. That thing is way too tight and too low. I don't want to send the wrong message."

"Just try it on, and if you don't like it, you can take it off. It doesn't look the way you think."

How could I say no? With a sigh, I exchanged the apple for the dress and tossed it on her bed. After I stripped off my clothes, I slipped it on and stood in front of her long closet mirror.

To my surprise, I liked it. I had transformed into an elegant woman. Dipping just enough to show some cleavage, but not too much, it hugged the curves of my body.

I felt different, more confident, and even beautiful. Turning to face Becky, I expected to get the "I told you so" look, and sure enough I did. Shaking her head, her face lit up with a huge smile.

"Love, love, love it. See? I always know what's best for you. Come on, let's fix your hair and makeup."

Becky tugged me to the bathroom and started to fuss with my face and hair. "If only the guy from the restaurant could see you. If you had been dressed like this, he would have come to our table."

"He was with someone, remember? Why are we even talking about him?" I arched my brows. "I'm going out with your favorite person."

Becky furrowed her brow. "Okay. I'll give Luke a chance if you tell me you like him after you kiss him." She reached over with one hand while holding the curling iron with the other. Placed in front of me were a pair of fake diamond earrings and a pendant necklace. "Here. Save some time, put these on."

"You don't give up, do you?"

"Nope, not when it has to do with your happiness."

The jewelry added a nice touch to the dress. Then my mind wandered to Nicole.

"That was a good idea, to put us in a group text," I said.

"Now hold still or I'll accidentally burn you," she scolded. "Yes, it was a good idea. Glad I thought of it."

"We're still on for tomorrow night, right?"

"Didn't you read the text?"

I snorted. "That's the problem with group texting; if you don't scroll up, you miss things. Nicole seemed fine when I called her last night, but you know how she is. She won't say much."

"Don't worry. If she says she's fine then she is. Just worry about your date tonight." She let go of the strand of hair she'd just curled. It bounced softly against my cheek.

I considered telling her I had run into _him_ , but it didn't matter. The likelihood of running into my mystery man again was slim to none. And again, I was dating Luke, not him.

Just as she finished curling the last section of my hair, the doorbell chimed. I checked my watch and saw he was right on time. Startled, I flashed my eyes to Becky.

"I'll open the door. Go put on your black heels and grab your sweater and purse."

"Thanks," I said and dashed to my room.

I peeked through the crack of my bedroom door. Luke seemed uncomfortable next to Becky. He wore casual black pants and a yellow sweater, bringing out his emerald-green eyes. He looked simply "nice."

I walked toward them, wondering how badly she drilled him. She was good at that. It annoyed me at times, but I knew her heart. Her intentions were always good.

The clicking sound of my high heels caught Luke's attention. His eyes popped open and he gave me a shy smile.

"Hello," I said nervously. Though the unbuttoned sweater covered the front of the dress somewhat, a little cleavage still showed. I never wore any type of clothing that revealed even a glimpse of my breasts, except my swimsuit, sort of.

"Hi. You look nice," he said.

"Thanks, so do you."

Silence filled the room.

The three of us stood there for several awkward seconds, until I finally spoke. "Shall we?"

Luke nodded and I led him out. Just before I closed the door, I glanced over my shoulder. Of course Becky stood right behind me, puckering her lips, making a kissing sound.

"I can't wait," she said.

I cackled and shook my head. "I love you too. Don't wait up."

She raised her brows in surprise, but her interpretation of "don't wait up" was different than mine.

Chapter 6

Luke wasn't the "perfect gentleman." Most men would at least open the car door for their date, but he never showed that kind of charisma.

But what did I know about men anyway? They were all different, just like us. Did I expect too much of him to open the door for me?

He led me into the dimly lit restaurant. White linen tablecloths and candles gave the room a romantic ambiance. I had to give him credit for having a good taste in choosing a restaurant.

The hostess took us toward the back, to a table for two, but the tables were close together. I had hoped there wouldn't be anyone sitting near us.

The hostess pulled out my chair, and after I sat, she placed the white linen napkin on my lap. "Thank you." I said.

"The waiter will be right with you." She smiled and left.

"How was your day?" Luke asked. He had one eye on me and the other eye on his phone. "Sorry. Checking an urgent email."

"That's okay. I had a fantastic day, actually. I got the job I told you about." I tried my best to contain my excitement, but he obviously had no idea what I was talking about. I had texted him about it the night before. Apparently, he hadn't read the text or had forgotten.

"Yes, of course, I remember," he said mechanically as his eyes flickered to his phone, then to me. "That's wonderful. What position will you be holding for the company?"

"I'll be going in to talk about it next week."

"I see." He gazed past me, seemingly deep in thought, but not about our conversation.

The waiter came by with the menus. "May I take your drink order?"

I opened my mouth to speak when Luke intervened "We'll each have a glass of water, please."

He didn't even ask me what I wanted. I brushed it off, thinking he knew I always ordered water.

"Sure." The waiter left after he told us the specials.

I had a hard time deciding what to order, especially when the thought of needing to use the restroom occupied my mind.

"Luke, I'll be right back. Can you order the salmon special for me if the waiter comes back before I do?"

"Sure."

I headed toward the back of the restaurant. The mirrored wall distracted me for a brief moment when my necklace sparkled brilliantly in the reflection.

From the corner of my eye I saw a figure moving, but dismissed it and turned to the elusive restroom sign. I was just about to head in that direction when someone behind me spoke in a deep, manly voice, sending shivers down my back.

"I'm your prescription. Let me be your new addiction." His words glided like butter, smooth and cool.

Startled, I twitched and turned toward his voice. There he was, all six feet of him, peering down at me with a smile that could make me do just about anything. Though there was nothing to laugh about, especially seeing this hottie in front of me, I couldn't help but laugh at the lame pickup line.

He wore beige casual pants and a black sweater fitted perfectly to his toned body. His hair was brushed to the side, showing a nice forehead. Whatever kind of cologne he had on made me want to dive right into his arms, or maybe it wasn't the cologne, but just him.

"Pretty cheesy, huh?" He chuckled.

I shyly smiled as I stared down at my shoes. What's wrong with me? Answer him. "Yeah, kind of." I peered up, only to have him take my breath away again.

"Sorry. I just had to say that. You appeared so lost and vulnerable. Do you need some help?"

_Great._ He looked at me and saw a lost puppy. "I actually found what I was looking for." I stared into his eyes, melting into him.

Snap out of it.

"You certainly did," he said with a playful tone.

Arching my brows in confusion, I mulled over what I'd said. From his perspective, my words had been about him.

"We meet again, for the third time."

_He_ ' _s counting?_

"You left so abruptly from Café Express, I didn't get to ask your name."

"My name? Oh, my name is Jeanella Mefferd, but you can call me Jenna."

Extending his hand, he waited for mine. "I'm Maxwell. But you can call me Max."

Nervously, I placed my hand in his. He clasped my hand, strong yet gentle, just right, and heat blazed through me from his touch.

"Are you here with someone?"

"Yes." I looked away.

"Are you lost? Do you need some help?"

"Actually, I was looking for the restroom." I slowly pulled my hand back to point in the direction I needed to go. I had just realized he held my hand the whole time during our short conversation. "So, I'd better go."

"I'll walk you there."

_What?_ "Oh, no need. I'm sure I won't get lost."

My face started to heat up again so I turned before Max could say another word, but it didn't matter what I had said. He placed his hand gently on my back, guiding me to the ladies' room. I turned my back to the bathroom door to thank him, but he spoke first.

"I think this is my stop," Max murmured, his smoldering eyes meeting mine. "I'm not wanted in there. What do you think?" He arched his brows and his tone held a note of challenge.

Huh? He wants to go in with me?

I gasped silently, still lost in his eyes. "I think the women in there would throw themselves at you."

I couldn't believe I'd said those words. I couldn't take them back. What was I doing flirting with him?

Max's eyes sparked as he leaned forward. His arms reached out, his muscles flexing as he placed one on each side of me on the wall. With nowhere to go, I was trapped inside the circle of his arms.

Max leaned down toward the left side of my face and brushed my hair with his cheek. "You smell delicious," he whispered.

His hot breath shot tingles to places I hadn't expected.

Out of nervousness and habit, my left index finger flew to my mouth. Max gave a crooked, naughty grin and slowly took my hand.

"Did you know, biting one's finger is an indication one is sexually deprived?" His words came out slowly, playfully. "I can fix that for you, if you'd like."

He did not just say that to me.

I parted my lips for a good comeback, but came up short. My chest rose and fell quickly and I tried to control the desire burning through me. Sure, he'd helped me once, but that didn't mean we were friends, or flirting buddies, or I would allow him to fix my sexual deprivation.

_Oh God._ Can guys tell if you haven't done it in a considerably long time? This had to stop or else—oh dear—I wanted to take him with me into the restroom.

Needing to put a stop to the heat, I placed my hand on his chest—big mistake. Touching him made it worse, sending tingles through every inch of me.

He pulled back at my touch, but his eyes did the talking instead. There was no need for words; I felt his hard stare on my body, as if he undressed me with his gorgeous eyes. His eyes caressed me, as real as if they were his hands. I felt them all over me, completely unraveling me.

When I thought I was going to faint, his eyes shifted to mine again.

"It was nice to meet you, Jenna. I'm sure we'll see each other again real soon. I better let you go. Your someone must be waiting for you. By the way"—he paused as he charmed me with his smile again—"you took my breath away. If I were your someone, I wouldn't let you out of my sight for even a second because someone like me would surely try to whisk you away." He winked and left.

Don't _ever wink again Max._ That wink made me shiver even more than his words.

Max was right. How long had I been away, but did Luke even care? What if he'd come to find me and he saw— _oh no._ I quickly used the restroom and headed back to our table.

Sweeping away Max and his words from my head, I ran through possible excuses. What would I say if he saw us? How could I explain?

Anxiety rose to the surface and so did my blood pressure. Just as I turned the corner to our table, I saw that another couple had been seated next to us. I gazed around the room, a little upset. Why would they seat another couple next to us when there were other empty tables around us?

"Luke, I'm so sorry," I apologized as I sat. "I got lost and then—"

_Oh crap._ Max sat adjacent to me, with a beautiful date seated across from him. My face felt hot, but my hands felt cold as the blood drained down to my toes.

Max having a date was not the issue. Flirting with me on his date infuriated me. How wrong was that? He was trouble for sure. In a way, I felt guilty toward Luke because I had enjoyed it.

"Are you okay?" Luke asked.

I placed my hand on my cheek, the cool touch soothed me somewhat. "I think I'm coming down with something," I whispered, trying not to attract Max's attention, but who was I kidding? He wasn't blind or stupid.

"Would you like to go home?" Luke looked concerned.

"I'll be fine, Luke. Maybe I just need something to eat."

When dinner arrived, our conversation stalled. A part of me kept quiet because of Max. In a way, I was more interested in the conversation at the other table.

Max's date giggled often and I wondered what was so funny.

From what I could tell, she was tall and her dark hair fell to her shoulders. Was this a personal or a business date? Why did I care?

Never once did I look his way and never once did he look at me. Well, truth be told, I did peek with my peripheral vision. I wasn't sure if Max snuck a glance, but Luke gazed their way when Max's date got a bit too loud.

When Luke excused himself to the restroom, Max's date did the same thing. Though more couples had filled the tables around us, I felt as though the place only existed for the two of us. Feeling uncomfortable, I focused on my plate. I swirled the remaining mashed potatoes around the plate with my fork trying my best to ignore Max.

I gasped and turned. Max had pulled up his chair and we bumped shoulders.

"Hi, again. Ignoring me, aren't you?" he muttered casually as if we were good friends.

His face loomed way too close for my comfort. I had no choice but to gaze into his hypnotic eyes. "Ignoring you? I hardly know you, and we have dates," I snapped. I didn't know where the sassy tone had come from.

"We can fix that."

"We can?" I asked, flustered.

Instead of answering, he tilted his head with an expression as if he remembered something. "I meant to ask you about your hand earlier, but I got a little distracted." Max grabbed my right hand and tenderly rubbed the area where the hot coffee had spilled. He'd even remembered which hand.

"It's much better. Thank you for asking." I fixated on his index finger stroking idly.

His touch produced electrical tingles, undulating throughout my body, and I didn't want him to stop. I managed to pull back without offending him. If I'd let him continue, I would have dived into his arms, and I didn't want to make a fool of myself.

"Good. I'm glad, but I think your someone is boring. And he doesn't treat you well."

He went from flirting to rude and arrogant in one heart beat second.

"He's just fine. You don't know him."

"True, I don't know him. Maybe your someone is with my someone, and they're making out in the bathroom."

I didn't know why I found it funny, but I laughed out loud. The kind of laugh that gave me tears, and he laughed with me too.

No, I couldn't see what he'd just planted in my mind, but the thought was hilarious. But why? Because a sweet, non-dangerous kind of guy like Luke wouldn't make out with someone like her. Nah, couldn't picture it.

Wiping the little tears that had settled in the corners of my eyes, I looked at Max. His eyes were soft and kind, and he had the sweetest smile. Neither one of us glanced away, as if we reached for something deeper.

Something I couldn't describe in his gaze pulled me to him, like I had known him all my life. A strong, undeniable connection flickered between us, like two lost souls finally finding each other.

Was it the hot, steamy flirtations we shared or the laughter? I didn't know, but I liked the feeling too much. At the same time, it frightened me, so I looked away.

Just in the nick of time, Max settled back at his table. Luke showed up first. He didn't ask me if I wanted dessert or if I was finished; he'd already paid the bill and asked me if I was ready.

As usual, he didn't walk with me. I followed behind him. Did I want someone like Luke—a readable, easy, non-dangerous kind of guy? Luke's inattention sure opened my eyes that night.

Just before Max was out of my sight, I glanced over my shoulder. I figured it was safe since his date had come back, but I was wrong. His piercing eyes watched me the whole time, and just before I turned the corner to disappear, he winked at me, leaving me completely unglued.

### Chapter 7

Luke and I walked down the long hallway in silence and stopped at my door.

"I had a nice time," he said. "Are you busy next weekend?"

"I'm not sure. I'll be starting my new job, and I don't know what my schedule will be like."

"Understandable. How about we play it by ear, and you let me know what night you're free?"

"Sure."

He leaned closer. This was it—Becky called it. He was going to kiss me.

I inhaled a deep breath and then his lips touched mine. While he caressed my arms, he pressed deeper. I kissed him back, but not for long. He pulled away. And that was that.

"I'll call you later," he said and walked away, leaving me wondering if I'd seen fireworks, and...nope. But it was a nice, soft kiss.

I hadn't kissed many guys. I didn't have much to compare it to. If I had to describe it in two words, I'd say wet and sloppy.

I opened the door and assumed Becky would be waiting up for me. But either she went out or she was already asleep. After I showered and got ready for bed, I snuggled beneath my blanket and cuddled up with a book I had started reading.

I'd loved young adult romances ever since I'd picked up one from Target, recommended by Becky, of course. The author was one of her clients. Though I loved books about vampires, angel stories were my absolute favorite.

At the part where the heroine described how she felt about the male she had encountered, my heart did a funny flip. A vivid image of Max's face jumped to the forefront.

I closed my book, not liking how Max had invaded my mind, and turned off the lamp. Why was I thinking of him? I didn't even know him. Sure, we'd flirted, but it meant nothing. Obviously he got a thrill out of doing it even though he had a date. Guys like him were trouble.

Luke was safe and nice. The kind of guy who would only date one woman at a time. Who would never cheat on his girlfriend. Max made me open my eyes, but regardless, Luke was safe, and I liked it that way.

I grabbed my cell phone to see if I had any messages. Our group had been texting away during my date. Reading through the texts, I laughed out loud. They'd placed bets on whether Luke would kiss me and if I would see fireworks.

They all agreed Luke would kiss me, but they disagreed on fireworks. Kate said yes, but Becky and Nicole disagreed. Then they ended with "see you tomorrow" and "can't wait."

I loved weekends.

I walked out of my room to an empty apartment. When I went to the kitchen, a note was attached on the refrigerator.

Going to the gym, then lunch date. See you when the posse comes around at four. I'll pick up salad and dessert. It's potluck, just in case you missed the text. No need to make anything. See you later.

I loved Becky. She always looked after me and made my life easier. She was the sister I'd wished I had. Nicole and Kate were special too, but Becky and I had been through some hard times together. Through thick and thin, we were always there for each other, and I was blessed to have them all in my life.

I called my mother before I got too busy. I tried to call as often as I could since my mom was a worrier.

My parents lived in San Francisco. My dad was a dentist and mom had been a stay-at-home mom. Being an only child was lonely at times, so my closest friends had become my family.

After I hung up, I cleaned the apartment, did the laundry, went to the grocery store to stock up the refrigerator, and turned on my laptop.

I didn't notice when Becky walked in.

"Hey, Jenna. Where are you?" Becky shouted from the kitchen.

"Hi, Becky." I peered into the kitchen to check out the salad and dessert she left on the counter. "Who did you go out to lunch with?"

"It really wasn't a date. He's an old friend." Becky folded the recyclable plastic bags and shoved them into the cabinet under the sink.

Just as I parted my lips to ask when Nicole and Kate would be arriving, the doorbell rang. That answered my question.

I opened the door to let them in, and Becky and I took turns giving them hugs. Nicole brought pasta salad and Kate brought some wine.

After we piled food on our plates, we settled around our wooden dining table. Kate took care of the wine for everyone, and even remembered to pour me just a small glass.

"How are you, Nicole?" I asked, thinking about her breakup, then wondered if I should have brought up the sore topic.

Nicole put down her glass of wine. "I'm not in love, not in the way I want to be. I think I loved the idea of being with someone, to be loved by someone, but I wasn't in love. You know, the kind of love where you can't be without him? And to be honest, the sex wasn't great."

Liquid shot out of Becky's mouth. She had just drank some wine. "Oh my God. I'm so sorry."

Thankfully, she'd spat it out in front of her and not at us.

"I'm not sitting beside you next time," Kate laughed, stabbing her fork into the salad.

"Anyway," Becky turned to Nicole. "Why didn't you tell us? It's important, you know? Did he at least give you orgasms?"

"Becky," I squealed in a scolding tone.

Nicole finished swallowing her pasta salad and poured more wine into her glass. "You know, I'm not sure."

"What?" Kate spat. "Are you serious?"

"Do you?" Nicole asked hesitantly.

"Oh yeah." Kate's lips curled into a smile and her eyes radiated with thoughts I could only imagine. "You wanna know something funny? The first time we had sex after the doctor gave us the green light, I squirted milk all over Craig's face."

We busted out laughing and Becky spit wine out of her mouth again, nearly choking this time.

"Oh my God, that is hilarious." Becky coughed relentlessly. "I could just picture it—though I wouldn't want to picture both of you naked—but how funny is that?"

"It was that good." Kate turned to Nicole. "If you were breastfeeding, would he make you squirt?"

Nicole pinched her brows to the center. "I'm not sure."

"Everything in life has ups and downs. I'm sure it applies to sex too, right?" I asked hesitantly. What did I even know about orgasms? Not much.

"True, it applies to life in general, but maybe not sex," Nicole replied. "Either he's good at it or not. There is no in between, I guess...I don't know. Anyway, thanks for the phone calls and the group texts. It cheered me up knowing you were all there for me, but I'm fine with the breakup now. I guess it's better to know sooner than later."

"That's what friends are for," Becky said sincerely.

"Cheers to that." Kate raised her glass.

"To everlasting friendship." I raised my glass.

The clinking sound echoed in the room, and we gulped down our drinks.

After dinner, Becky placed the strawberry cheesecake she'd bought for dessert on the table. She carefully sliced each piece and passed them around.

I scooped up a chunk and placed it in my mouth. "Mmmm, this is so good. Good choice for dessert, Becky."

"I know it's your favorite so I got it for you," she winked.

"You're the best."

"Don't you forget it. Sooo, I've been patiently waiting all day to ask you a question—"

"You mean, _we've_ been patiently waiting," Kate broke in.

"This is probably the best strawberry cheesecake I've ever tasted, and I've tasted plenty," Nicole said. "We have two questions: One, did he kiss you? And two, did you see fireworks?"

I made them wait for my answer as I took another bite to savor the sweet creamy taste, but Becky was relentless.

"Well, answer, or I'll have to take that away from you," Becky said playfully, tugging my plate away from me.

"Mine." Sounding like a child, I pulled it back.

I debated what to say. The mere thought of Max deprived me of words. "Yes, Luke kissed me," I stated.

Their eyes lit up as they waited for an answer.

"And—" I continued, "I didn't see fireworks." Before they could say "I told you so" to each other, I added, "But it doesn't mean I want to stop seeing him. He's cute, and he's really nice."

Nicole seemed disappointed. "If you didn't see fireworks, then the likelihood of having great sex is well...But who am I to judge? He could prove otherwise. So, when are you going to—"

"Nicole," Becky barked. "Jenna isn't like you."

"I'm just making sure she doesn't make the same mistake I did, so relax, Mother." She narrowed her eyes. "Think of sex like this creamy, soft cheesecake." She patted it with her fork. "It's good, but how you make it and what you put on it makes it even better. There are many cheesecakes out there, but what makes this one stand out from the rest?"

"The ingredients," Kate added. "How much effort you put into making it. You can take the shortcut, or devote more time and add different ingredients to make it even more delicious."

"True," Becky seconded. "You can even spice it up by adding toppings." She lit a sly grin. "And yes, I'm talking about food and other things."

"No, you didn't." Nicole's voice rose an octave with excitement.

"Yup, whipped cream and all."

My skin flamed. I'd known when I gulped the wine down I would feel it right away, but in a way I didn't care. I was at home with my friends.

"Are you okay?" Kate asked.

"It's the wine. You know how Jenna gets," Becky explained. "She only drank half a glass."

"I wish it only took me half a glass to get buzzed like that," Kate said.

"I'm okay. I just feel hot all over." I snorted, taking another bite of the cheesecake.

"I don't blame you." Kate fanned herself with her hand. "Cheesecake and sex talk is making me leak milk already."

Laughter rang in the air. As I contemplated the cheesecake and their comparison to it, I knew I'd never experienced what they had, but then again, I had only slept with one man.

I had been raised by extremely strict parents and didn't get to go out much in high school. Witnessing all the heartaches, plus being a late bloomer myself, I didn't want to go through the emotional drama.

I didn't want to make out with some guy just because he was cute, or have meaningless sex when I was not mature enough. I focused on studying so I could get into a good college.

Finally, in college I met an amazing guy—or so I thought—until he broke my heart by cheating on me with my roommate. I immediately moved out and luckily, Becky needed a roommate.

I'd dated many guys, but I hadn't made a connection with any of them. My friends had tried setting me up on several dates, and they'd all amounted to nothing. It wasn't that I didn't find the men attractive. Being cheated on made me picky, and no one had ever made me feel the way Max did, and—dear God, I was thinking of him again.

"Who's on your mind?" Nicole asked, tucking a fist underneath her chin as she wielded a mischievous grin.

My friends were staring at me. Was it that obvious?

Becky took a bite of cheesecake and mumbled, "Surely it's not Luke. Your face never lit up like that before."

I wanted to blame it on the wine and the effects of the alcohol, but I said one word: "Max."

"Who the hell is Max? Are you dating two guys?" Nicole squealed.

"No," I said with my head inclined and realized I had just opened up a can of worms.

I fanned my face to cool down the heat of the wine and I had no choice but to tell them about Max. They giggled like schoolgirls, teasing me, but all in fun. I assured them it was nothing, since the likelihood of running into him again was slim, but one never knew about these things.

After dessert, we chatted about life and everything in between.

### Chapter 8

I wore a brown sweater dress on the first day of my new job, my heels clicking on the tile floor.

The admin assistant smiled when I approached. "Ms. Mefferd. I've been expecting you."

Her warm greeting gave me a sense of belonging. "Thank you"—I searched for her nameplate—"Mrs. Ross."

Mrs. Ross pointed to the left. "Go ahead. The first door on your right is the Human Resources Department. Mrs. Ward will show you to your office. She'll go over everything with you."

"Thank you." I smiled and made my way there.

The door was already ajar so I pushed it just a bit more until I saw a face smiling back at me. "Mrs. Ward?" I asked?

"Come in." She rose. "You must be Ms. Mefferd." Her strong grip surprised me as she shook my hand. "Have a seat."

I settled into a chair while she skimmed through papers on her desk. "Ms. Mefferd, I'm going to go over a few of the details we discussed over the phone first."

I nodded. "Sure."

"As you already know, the position you interviewed for has been filled by someone else we felt was more qualified. However, we believe you would be a strong asset to our team, so we would like to start you off in the Customer Relations Department. Knight Magazine takes pride in our customer relations, and with your experience and personality, we think you can take it to a whole new level.

"Lisa, whom you will soon meet, has been doing double duty. We were going to announce the opening of the position after the rep position was filled, but when they interviewed you, the team felt you'd be perfect.

"Customer relations manager is your title. We have four employees who will be working in the department under your direction, and you will be following mine. Lisa will be assigned to you, and she'll help you with everything you need. Before I take you to your office, let's go over salary and benefits."

After the details of the contract were taken care of, she led me to my office.

The five of us shared a space. I liked that my desk was next to the large window, and the other desks lined the wall on either side.

Lisa, a woman with light-brown hair and soft-brown eyes, approached us first. She seemed to be my age, and I was thankful she was friendly. Rachel, Dan, and Eric, were just as welcoming. After the introductions Mrs. Ward left, and they all got back to work.

Lisa knew all the ins and outs of the place. She showed me the list of our clients and where I could find their information on my computer.

There was so much to learn and do, but I took in the view from the window.

People rushed in and out of the building and cars whizzed by. I inhaled a deep thankful breath, relishing the wonderful opportunity I'd been given. Though I didn't get the job I'd wanted, things happened for a reason. I hoped it was a good one.

In no time it was almost noon.

"We usually take our lunch at eleven-thirty to miss the lunch rush. Would you like to come with us?" Lisa asked.

I wanted to say yes, but I decided to decline their invitation. "I'm just going to grab a sandwich and get back to work. How about I join you tomorrow?"

"Sure." Lisa smiled and everyone left.

Grabbing my wallet and cell phone out of my workbag, I headed out of the building and stepped into the brisk wind to Café Express.

My heart pounded, wondering if I would see Max again. A quick scan of the room revealed no sign of him, and I relaxed my shoulders.

In line, I checked my emails and texts. I had a missed call from Luke. Becky, Nicole, and Kate had texted to tell me to have an awesome first day. They were so sweet. My parents did the same.

Becky had texted, asking me to find a rich guy for her. Kate told me to find someone who made me leak. Nicole advised me to find someone who would rock my sex life. I giggled a bit too loud and looked up when the cashier spoke.

I'd been too engrossed in my texts to realize the line had moved. "Sorry. I would like to order a turkey sandwich, a bottle of water, and—" Should I or shouldn't I order one? Hell, I deserved one for being good and not having sweets for the past couple of days. "One Rice Krispies Treat, please."

The cashier came back with my stuff and rang them all up. "That will be seventeen fifty."

I opened my wallet and pulled out a twenty when a one-hundred-dollar bill crossed in front of me.

"I'll have what she's having, except for the Rice Krispies Treat, and I'll be paying for both."

I froze, recognizing the sound of his voice, his smell, and his warm breath against my face when he reached over. Turning, I peered up at him.

"Thank you Max for the offer, but I can pay for my own lunch," I said politely.

"Jenna, we meet again. I got this." Excitement rose in his tone. He gave a stern look to the cashier meaning "take it now."

Not wanting to make a big fuss, I turned to him again. "Thank you, but that wasn't necessary."

"It's my pleasure, and since we're friends now, we can sit together." As he grabbed his change and our lunches, he guided me to the table with his other hand on my lower back.

"We're friends?" I gave him a side-long glance.

"We've run into each other four times already, and we even had dinner together," he chuckled, pulling my chair out for me.

After I sat, he pushed it forward. _What a gentleman._

A part of me felt guilty for sitting with him, but he was being friendly, and in a way, we were friends.

"I didn't actually have dinner with you," I corrected.

He proceeded to unwrapped my sandwich for me. But he held on to the Rice Krispies Treat.

"Here you go. You must be hungry. And _yes,_ we did. You sat across from me at the restaurant, didn't you?" He winked.

Oh...don't wink. My heart did a funny flip. "Yes, but I was with someone, and you had a date too, so I hardly call that going to dinner together." I laughed softly, thinking how funny the conversation sounded.

"We can change that. And just so you know, I'm not stalking you." He offered an irresistible smile. "I always come here to grab a quick bite to eat. Unless you want me to stalk you, then I can make that happen."

My eyes grew wide.

"You know I'm joking, right? Someone has to protect you from people who like to accidentally bump into you, make it seem like it's your fault, and then are rude about it." He winked again, opening his mouth to take a bite of his sandwich.

_Stop staring._ I focused on my lunch and took a small bite.

"So what brings you here?" he asked, wiping his mouth with a napkin.

"I just got a new job."

"Congratulations. Where do you work?"

"Today is my first day. I'm the customer relations manager for Knight Magazine."

His tone spiked up. "Really? What do you do for them?"

"Basically, I make the clients happy. My team takes their orders and we make sure the shipments get to them on time. Of course there's more to it than that, but right now that's my main responsibility. Someone else got the position I interviewed for, but I'm excited to be there. It's a start and at least I have my foot in the door."

"What position were you interviewing for?"

"I wanted to be one of their reps. The job description included attending New York Fashion Week," I explained, finding myself opening up to this stranger who made me feel so comfortable.

I told him things I hadn't even discussed with Luke or my friends. "I know it's not the best reason to take the position, but I wanted to do something exciting. Don't get me wrong, I'm lucky to even have the job. I mean, to work for Knight Magazine is a dream come true."

Max listened intently as he ate. I didn't remember much of what we'd talked about, but the whole conversation had centered on me, which I wasn't used to. Checking my cell phone without trying to be rude, I noticed the time.

"Max. I'm sorry, but I need to go." I stood up from the table, grabbed my sandwich and water bottle. "Thank you so much for the lunch. I-I..."

Max stood up too. His sandwich was half eaten like mine.

"I'm so sorry. I talked away and you didn't get to eat your sandwich. But I have to go," I rambled.

Max reached into the brown bag. "May I?"

"Sure. It's yours." I had forgotten about the treat. "You can have mine. Thanks again for lunch." I turned on my heels and started walking.

Max wrapped his hand around my elbow. He gave a slight tug and caught me in his hold. With a light gasp and a wave of heat flushing through me, I was lost in his eyes.

"I had a wonderful time," he whispered. "Thanks for being my lunch buddy." He handed me the brown bag. "Lunch buddies share their feelings, stories, and even goodies."

I gave him a shy smile and walked away. I wanted my Rice Krispies Treat to cool me down. When I reached into the bag, what I saw stunned me and even tugged at my heart strings. He hadn't broken it in half as I'd expected, but instead he molded it into the shape of a heart.

After that, I reserved a special place for him in my heart. Expecting him to be devouring his sandwich, I looked over my shoulder as I pushed the door to exit.

His eyes followed me, and I caught a glimpse of the wink that made me want to dive into his arms.

### Chapter 9

Luke left on a business trip to San Francisco. He asked me to go with him, but going away and sharing one room meant sleeping together. I wasn't ready, at least not yet.

"Do you want to catch a movie or stay home tonight?" Becky asked, folding her laundry.

"You wear that? It doesn't cover anything. Do you floss your vagina with that thing?" I joked.

Becky snorted. "No. It's a G-string. Don't tell me you haven't seen one before?" She tossed one to me.

Catching it, I examined it. "Of course I have. I just don't have one."

"It's okay. None of my business. You can wear anything you want, but I hope you're not going to wear granny panties when you start dating Max. Instead of watching a movie or staying home, we need to go shopping for undies."

"What? Max and I are not dating. He's had plenty of chances, but he didn't ask," I huffed, stunned at myself for sounding mad. "We're just friends. He thanked me for being his lunch buddy."

My mind reeled to the moment at Café Express when time stopped and everything around me was nonexistent. I sighed inwardly. I told Becky about the accidental lunch encounter, but of course she'd insisted it wasn't a coincidence.

A comfortable silence filled the air while I helped her fold the rest of her clothes. Then the doorbell chimed.

"I'll get it." Becky raced for the door.

I tried eavesdropping on the conversation, but I couldn't hear much.

"Thank you," she said, and then she walked back into the living room with a tall glass vase full of red roses and a box in her hands.

I excitedly beamed a smile. "They're beautiful. Who sent them to you? And what's in the box?"

"I don't know, but I'm pretty sure they're not for me. It must be yours. So the question is, who sent them to you?" She handed me the card and placed the vase and the box on our dining table.

They had to be from Luke. Who else would have sent them?

I opened the envelope and read the note.

Shock slammed into me, and my heart thundered. Was I somehow misreading the sender's name?

I read it again.

"Who's it from?" Becky peered over my shoulder and read out loud.

Dearest Jenna,

I hope you had a wonderful week at your new job.

Until we meet again.

Lunch buddies share their feelings, stories, and even goodies.

Thinking of you,

Your lunch buddy,

Max

"I knew it," Becky squealed. "Luke never sent you flowers. He's not the sending flowers type. Wait—are you not telling me the whole story?"

"I told you everything." My voice was soft and still unbelieving.

My lips tugged to my eyes. They were the most beautiful roses I had ever seen. They must have been expensive because roses that exquisite were hard to find.

I inhaled the scent and touched the silky petals. "They're beautiful." Then my eyes shifted to the white box. An oval sticker on top read Café Express. I used my nail to break the seal. Inside, a dozen heart-shaped Rice Krispies Treats nestled in red tissue paper.

"Jenna, I don't think he see himself as just a lunch buddy. He wants more."

"But I can't." I sighed, feeling confused. "I'm dating someone else."

"True, but did Luke say he wanted to date exclusively?"

"We never talked about it."

"Then you're assuming. Maybe he's dating someone else while he's dating you. Have you thought about that?"

I'd never considered that possibility. Just because I was a one-guy-at-a-time kinda girl didn't mean he was. "I don't think he would."

She draped her arm around my shoulders and shook her head. "My inexperienced, innocent friend who only thinks the best of everyone, you need to figure out what you want. You feel safe with Luke, but at the same time, you want to jump into bed with Max."

" _Becky,"_ I shot back, a bit too loudly.

"Admit it. You've got the hots for Max. Who in their right mind wouldn't? But you're scared he'll hurt you once you let him in. I understand. I've been there before and so have you. But Max may turn out to be different."

"First of all, Max hasn't even asked me out. He's just having fun flirting with me. Because I'm not throwing myself at him, he probably sees me as a challenge and nothing more."

Becky released me. "Don't judge him without getting to know him. To me, he seems like a great package, but"—both of her hands went up—"I don't know him. And you won't know until you try. If you don't, you'll regret it and always wonder about the _what-ifs_ and it'll eat you alive."

"You sound as though you have a few regrets." A vacant expression crossed her face; I had touched a sore topic.

Her lips pressed into a thin line but quickly curled into smile. "Let's not talk about me. If he asks you out, what are you going to do?"

I slumped down on a chair and placed my fist under my chin as I stared at the roses. "He sent me flowers and my favorite, Rice Krispies Treats. He also shaped one into a heart when we had lunch together. What am I going to do?" I plopped my head on the table.

Becky grabbed a seat next to mine. "Why don't you sleep with both of them and see who makes you sing 'Hallelujah?'"

I peered up busting up. When Becky joined me, I pulled her in for a hug.

Becky returned the squeeze and said, "I just want the best for you. You know that, don't you?"

I nodded. "I don't like being confused. We haven't even gone out on a date, and he's invading my thoughts, not to mention my body. I want him out of my mind."

I wasn't ready to let Luke go. We'd just started to get to know each other. I had to give him a chance, but what would I do if Max asked me out?

"Jenna, follow your heart."

But what if my heart was split down the middle?

It dawned on me. "How does he even know where I live?"

Becky released me. "I don't know, but that should tell you he's slowly making his move. He's testing the water first. He knows you're dating someone, but he's trying to find out how serious your relationship is. You had lunch with him, and it gave him the okay sign to send you flowers."

"It did?" I grabbed a treat and handed to Becky. "How do you know so much?"

Becky took a bite. "Experience. Been there, done that."

"I thought I knew everything about your love life." I grabbed one for me and took a small bite.

"Let's just say I had too much fun my junior year before you knew me." She winked. "Now go get your purse. We're going shopping, but after we finish our Rice Krispies Treats. So yummy."

### Chapter 10

Monday mornings were usually a drag. Getting into the swing of things after a fun weekend was hard. But I was pumped to go to work. In fact, I arrived half an hour early, checking emails and replying to clients. As I stared at my computer, the sound of the door swinging open caught my attention.

"Good morning." I greeted Lisa and everyone trailing in behind her. They all came in right on schedule. Everyone went straight to work. After time had passed, I checked the clock and noted it was almost noon.

"You have a meeting with Mrs. Ward in five minutes," Lisa reminded me.

Lisa was the best. Though she wasn't my personal assistant, sometimes she acted like one. "Thanks, Lisa. I'll be back."

Gathering my notebook and pen, I walked out the door. As I made my way down the hall, a few passing employees gave me quick smiles. I smiled back and was just about to enter Mrs. Ward's office when I did a double take.

Max was talking to the front office assistant. I wanted to look away, but he was so fine in his suit and tie, I couldn't help myself. Mrs. Ross smiled, giggling like a schoolgirl at whatever he'd said to her.

What was he doing there? Maybe he was one of our clients? Before he could see me, I walked in.

"Good afternoon, Ms. Mefferd," Mrs. Ward greeted warmly. "Have a seat."

"Please, call me Jenna." After I sat, I pulled out my pen.

She focused on her computer screen, glanced at me, and then back to her screen again. "Sorry, I'm reading this email. It's regarding you."

"Oh." I stiffened. "Is something wrong?"

"No. You can put your pen down. You won't be taking any notes. It wasn't part of your job description, but how do you feel about traveling?"

"It depends where I'm going. Wrong answer. I tried again. "Sure. I don't mind."

Traveling sounded fun. I hadn't been to—well, I hadn't traveled much of anywhere—so the thought exhilarated me.

"Good. You'll be leaving this Thursday for New York. I'll email your flight information and have an agenda ready for you by Wednesday morning at the latest. This is all so sudden. I need to get this ready for you."

"Thank you, but I'm just wondering why I'm going to New York? Am I going by myself?"

She paused and reread her email again. Her nose crinkled and she seemed confused. "I believe you'll be representing our company during New York Fashion Week."

My eyes grew wide in complete shock. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would be attending New York Fashion Week.

"Are you sure it's me? I mean, I wasn't hired for that position." I didn't mean to sound as though she had made a mistake, but this was too good to be true.

"No. The email said Jeanella Mefferd will be attending. You won't be going alone. Megan Crawford and Jake, one of the photographers, along with his team, will be joining you. You might want to introduce yourself to them before you go."

"Do you think I'm going because Ms. Crawford needs an assistant? I did interview for her position." I tried to draw out more details from her but to no avail.

"I'm sorry, Jenna. I don't have any more information. I got this email straight from Mr. Knight's assistant." She leaned closer. "If I were you, I wouldn't ask any questions and just enjoy this opportunity since it's paid for by the company. It'll be like taking a mini-vacation, and you get to go to one of the fashion shows."

I nodded with a smile. No more questions. Who cared? "Thank you. I'll be looking forward to your email."

"Great. Have a good day."

"Thank you." I left with my feet hovering off the ground.

Excitement infused through every part of me. I couldn't believe my luck.

On my way back to my office, I gazed ahead to the glass window as the sun seeped through. What a beautiful day, despite the gray clouds.

I loved my job, despite the fact I didn't get the position I wanted. It didn't matter what the reason was for me going to New York; I couldn't wait.

When I went back to my office, I spotted a wrapped sandwich, a heart-shaped Rice Krispies Treat, a water bottle, and a note on my desk.

Dearest Jenna,

Thought you might be hungry.

Hope you liked the flowers and the box of goodies.

Thinking of you,

Your lunch buddy,

Max

I put the note back down and ran out the door. Checking left and right, I didn't see anyone. I must have missed him.

My mind reeled. Had he delivered the sandwich? The way Mrs. Ross had made eyes at him, she had to have let him in. He probably talked his way into anything he wanted with his looks and charm.

I collected myself back to my desk and ate lunch. I didn't have his phone number so I had no way to thank him. In fact, I only knew his first name. The only way to thank him was to go to Café Express and hope he would show up.

The rest of the day went by quickly, and I was eager to go home to tell Becky what Max had done.

"Becky?" My stomach growled when I entered my apartment. I hadn't realized I was so hungry until I smelled the wonderful aroma of ground beef and tomato sauce.

"I'm here." Becky poured pasta into a strainer.

"You made dinner?" I squealed happily.

"We need to celebrate. Congrats on going to New York. This is your dream—well, one of your dreams."

Unable to hold the exciting news for too long, I had texted my friends at work about my trip.

"I know, right? I can't believe it." Opening the cabinet, I pulled out two large plates and set them on the counter.

Becky dumped some pasta on each plate and poured sauce over them. I took the plates and set them on the dining table. My eyes gravitated to the beautiful roses that filled the air with their sweet scent, reminding me of Max.

"When do you leave for New York?" Becky broke me out of my stupor. Sitting across from me, she passed a fork and a glass of water.

"This Thursday." I wound the noodles around the fork. "I'll be back Saturday night."

"You should ask Max to join you."

"What?" I snorted. "I don't even know his last name. In fact, I don't know anything about him."

"I was just kidding, but I can tell from the way you're stalling, you've actually thought about it." Becky took a bite. "I'm sorry, but the flowers reminded me of him. Not that I'm interested, don't get me wrong."

With my mouth full, I spoke anyway, "I know what you mean."

During dinner, I told Becky what Max had done. Of course she'd thought he was swoon worthy and I should just jump in bed with him.

We discussed about her job and her dateless nights. Afterward, I called my parents. I thought about calling Luke, but I couldn't. Going to New York would be a great escape. Perhaps it would help me with my decision.

Make it work with Luke or let him go.

### Chapter 11

The next day at work, Lisa, Rachel, and the team got the news about my trip to New York. Lisa was the most excited and being a New Yorker, she suggested some restaurants I should try if I had the time.

She said on Tuesdays, most employees go to Café Express for lunch. Thinking I might run into the photographer and Megan, I agreed to go, but I was hesitant I would run into Max again.

I couldn't refuse. I'd turned them down before. I assumed Max worked nearby so we were bound to run into each other. I had to stop overthinking it and face whatever came my way.

When we entered, waves of hands greeted us. The company's employees occupied most of the space, leaving hardly any room for the other customers.

After we ordered and got our lunches, I sat beside Lisa. She introduced me to a bunch of people, but I had forgotten most of their names. Jake, the photographer, was there, but not Megan.

"Are we on the same flight?" Jake asked after swallowing a spoonful of soup. He had ordered a sourdough bread bowl filled with clam chowder.

"I'm not sure. All I know is my flight's on Thursday."

"I'm flying Wednesday with Megan." He furrowed his brow. "I wonder why we're not flying together? Have you been to New York before?"

"No, it's my first time."

Lisa and a few other women sitting next to her smiled and sat up straight as they gazed past me.

"He's so handsome," one of the ladies gushed. "Too bad he doesn't sit with us. Oh well, I'll just stare at him ordering his food."

I wanted to see who they were talking about, but I thought better of it. I had just met them, and I didn't want to be a part of their drooling session. It was none of my business anyway.

"He looks so delicious in his suit and tie. I wonder what he looks like without it," the brunette with short hair chimed in.

"I heard he dates a lot of women and never stays with one," another said.

"Guys like him like to fool around," Jake said. "And why not? Nice car, beautiful women. Women throw themselves at him all the time. He's loaded. He can do whatever he wants. Yup, I'm jealous."

"If he'll catch me, I'll throw myself at him." One snorted.

Lisa and her friends' eyes grew bigger.

"Oh my God, I think he's heading our way." One gasped.

"Hello, Mr. Knight. Would you like to join us?" Lisa asked sweetly.

Mr. Knight? I stiffened. I was about to meet the person behind the company I worked for.

"May I?" the voice asked.

Great. Why next to me? Then I froze _._ I recognized the voice like the sound of my own heart beating. When I scraped up the courage to peek, Max stood right above me.

Mr. Knight? Surely I'd misheard.

Max pulled out the chair next to me and sat way too close for comfort. I gasped silently when his knee touched mine. When I shifted so they wouldn't touch, he moved closer without making it obvious.

"Please, eat your lunch. I hope everyone is having a great day."

"Yes, we are, Mr. Knight," one blonde said, a little too bubbly.

There was that name again. Mr. Knight rang in my head. Surely it couldn't be _the_ Mr. Knight?

Heat flushed through my body when Max turned to me.

"We meet again. How's Knight Fashion treating you so far?" he asked.

I had mixed emotions. I had talked about my new job with him. If he owned the company or even worked there, why hadn't he told me?

It all became clear. He must have gotten my address from the employee information files to send the flowers. He'd looked into my profile? I didn't know how I felt about that. He hadn't been honest with me from the start. It was a bad sign.

"Fine, thank you. I enjoy working with my team," I replied flatly, turning my eyes from him.

Anger brewed. What if I had mentioned things I shouldn't have? I had opened myself up to this good-looking stranger who wanted to have lunch with me all because he swept me off my feet.

Not anymore.

My muscles became rigid. I looked straight ahead and tuned out their conversation. The ladies giggled when Max said a few words I didn't hear. I mulled back to our last lunch conversation. And the more I'd thought about it, the angrier I got.

The sudden weight of his hand on my thigh underneath the table jerked me back to him.

"Ms. Mefferd, I'll see you at the department meeting in your office at six." Max said and shifted his attention to the rest of the group. "Have a good day, everyone. Thank you for allowing me to join you, but I have a meeting to attend in ten minutes." He stood up, lighting up that irresistible smile and left.

"Look at that fine man go," one whispered.

Watching him walk out the door was not my cup of tea, especially while worrying about the meeting at six that no one told me about.

I looked at Lisa. "Did I miss something?"

"I'll check for you, Jenna. Sometimes it happens. Maybe you missed an email."

This wasn't good. I would've missed a meeting had Max not mentioned it. Confirming a meeting clearly meant he did work at Knight Fashion. Even worse, he was my boss, but most upsetting was the fact he hadn't been honest with me from the beginning.

I felt betrayed. He had twisted a dagger in my heart and we hadn't even gone out.

At five thirty Lisa, Rachel, and the rest of the team left for the day. I sat behind my desk, completely unprepared for the meeting, which was supposed to happen in my office.

By ten minutes past six, no one had showed up. Had I misheard the time? I scrolled through my emails again, searching for the meeting.

Footsteps came toward me. Then I heard the sound of a chair rolling quietly as if they were purposely trying to keep the noise level down. I guessed the meeting was about to start.

I clicked the sleep command on the computer and faced the person who had entered. My stomach somersaulted when I saw Max.

I stumbled out of my chair and nearly fell flat on my ass. He stood up to help me, but luckily I caught myself before I fell. Then I got a glimpse of his radiating smile, the kind of smile that made me lose my breath.

Max comfortably sat back down. "Hello, lunch buddy."

I glared at him and didn't say a word with my arms crossed.

His happy grin disappeared, replaced by an impassive look. He cleared his throat. "I'm sorry. I should've told you, but—"

"Yes, you should've," I snapped. _Oh God. I'm being rude to my boss._ Wait—is he even my boss, or maybe my boss's son? Remembering the meeting, I calmed down.

"You swept me away, so it didn't cross my mind. I wanted to get to know you. I didn't want to talk about me," he stated.

What did he just say? I ran a hand through my hair. "I think we should get ready for the meeting."

He didn't respond. Instead, he stood up, holding my gaze as he walked toward me. My mind told my body to move, but I couldn't get my legs to work. Approaching me that way put me in a trance, and I gasped lightly when stopped just inches away.

"This is our meeting, Ms. Mefferd."

Oh no, he didn't.

I couldn't find the email because there was no meeting. I didn't know whether to be furious or to be flattered. Regardless, what he had done was not professional.

"What are we meeting about, Mr. Knight? And you're standing way too close for a meeting, or are all of your meetings this way?"

The corner of his lips curled up into an amused smile. "Only with you. I'm not adjourning this meeting until you agree to have dinner with me."

Was he asking me out? Thrilled he had finally asked, I almost smiled. Too overwhelmed by his proximity, I wanted to sit back down in my chair, but I remained standing just to prove he didn't have an effect on me. So Instead, I extended my hand to his chest to push him back, but that was a mistake.

An electric tingle ran through me. Unexpectedly, Max grasped both of my hands and held them tenderly.

"I can't go out to dinner with you," I retorted sharply, yanking my hands away.

"Why not?" he asked softy.

"I don't do my boss." That didn't come out right. I hoped he would overlook it.

His brows arched. "Do? So you're thinking of going to bed with me already?"

"No," I squealed. "I had no such thoughts." My face warmed, remembering the dreams I'd had about him once or twice, or a bunch of times.

It was way too hot in here.

"No? It didn't even cross your mind?"

Yes, it did.

His body pressed closer, making me step to the side, and I accidentally sat on my desk.

"Even the roses didn't remind you of me?"

At that reminder, I regretted being rude and cleared my throat. "Thank you for the beautiful roses, the Rice Krispies Treats, and the surprise lunch on my desk. You really didn't have to."

"I know, but I wanted to. So, will you allow me to take you out to dinner?"

"No," I whispered, shivering from his face being way too close to mine.

His eyes shifted from my eyes to my lips. _Don'_ t kiss me. I won _'t be strong enough to resist you._ My index finger headed toward my mouth, then stopped on my lips, recalling what Max had said to me the last time. Seeing that smirk plastered on his face, I dropped my hand immediately.

"Why not? Is it because of Duke?" His breath brushed against my lips and his hands rested on my desk on either side of me, locking me in his embrace.

How did he know Luke's name, though he had called him Duke. It was close enough. I assumed he had overheard me say Luke's name at dinner, when Max sat at the table next to us. He must have had ears on our conversation or the lack of it.

"His name is Luke," I corrected.

"I don't care what his name is. Since you don't have a ring on your finger, and since it didn't seem like you were all that into him during dinner, I can ask you out."

I wanted to pull him in for a kiss, but I dared not. With all my willpower, I pushed him away just enough to give me room to slide out and move to the other side of the desk. "It doesn't matter. You're my boss. We shouldn't be having this conversation or this meeting."

He beamed a playful smile. "I met you before you started working here. We've been running into each other a lot lately. I believe it's a sign. Have you heard of serendipity? If it will change your mind, I can fire myself."

It took all I had in me to keep from smiling, but I wasn't going to give in just because my body wanted to.

"Anyway," he continued. "I'm not your boss. Mrs. Ward is your boss."

My head cocked slightly in confusion. "Are you _the_ Mr. Knight?"

"No, my dad is _the_ Mr. Knight." He advanced toward me.

My heart thumped faster.

"So technically, I'm not your boss." He stood in front of me, his energy holding me, melting me without even a touch. Then he backed away. "So lunch buddy, what do you say?"

Frazzled, I stood there just putting the pieces of his words together, trying to register all he had said. He had asked me out, and inside I screamed yes, but my mind repeatedly said no.

"I shouldn't. I mean, I can't. I—"

"You mean, you're scared," he suggested. "All I'm asking for is one night." He approached me again. "I promise you won't regret it."

His fingers slowly brushed through my hair, holding on to the last bit of the strand. I stood there frozen, hypnotized by his words, by his touch. His hand moved to my face, gently cupped it as if he were holding a wounded dove and idly stroked his thumb over my cheek.

"Women blush around me all the time. But those who throw themselves at me don't. I like how I can make your cheeks flushed. It's different—sweet and somewhat innocent, yet sexy at the same time."

Oooh, that was just arrogant. The office wasn't big enough for his ego.

He continued, "And somehow, you make me blush. I've never blushed before. I like how it feels, too much." His words came out slowly and each one made me quiver as his deep sensual gaze reeled me in.

I made him blush?

I reluctantly broke out of the hold he had on me, grabbed my workbag, and headed out the door. "This meeting is adjourned, Mr. Knight," I stated.

Letting out an amused light chuckle, his eyes followed me as I stormed out the door. But just before I left, I heard him mutter, "All right, you leave me no choice."

What did he mean by that?

### Chapter 12

"How was work?" Becky asked when I got home.

"Awful. Just awful." I pouted and went straight to my room, dropped my bag, and changed into sweats. I sat cross-legged on the edge of my bed and let out a heavy, confused sigh.

Becky peeked through the door. "What happened?"

I exhaled another deep sigh. "I'm in big trouble."

Becky plopped next to me. "Whatever it is, I'm sure you can fix it."

My sweet friend was always so positive, always knowing the right words to say, but this wasn't an easy fix.

"I can't fix this unless I move out of state," I mumbled.

"Spit it out," she said sternly. "Now I'm truly worried. What happened?"

"Max happened," I groaned, making such a funny sound I couldn't believe it had come out of my mouth.

Becky plastered a smile. "Tell me, tell me," she said way too excitedly.

As I explained the details of Max being my boss's son and what had happened in the office, my out of control emotions escaped through my frenzied tone and wild gestures. Becky didn't say a word as she listened, but her expression said it all. She was just as excited as I was.

"I'm in so much trouble," I grumbled at the end of my explanation. "I don't know what to do."

"I've been telling you to go for Max, but clearly if you are this distraught, you must care about Luke more than I thought. This is one decision you'll have to make on your own. I can listen and give you my opinion, but I can't feel what you feel. I'm not in your shoes."

"Luke is safe. He'd probably be good husband material, the kind I could trust. But Max? He makes me feel things I've never felt before. When I'm with him, I come alive. This wanting, needing, desire burns through me. Not only is he intelligent, charming, a protector, romantic, a thoughtful guy, but is he the faithful type? I don't want to hurt Luke, but I don't want to let Max slip through my fingers. What do I do?"

"Oh, Jenna, always thinking about other people's feelings. Don't worry about hurting Luke. This is about you and what you want. I wish I could tell you what to do, but this is going to have to come from you. Follow your heart. That's all I can say. You know I'm going to give you my two cents' worth." She draped her arm around my shoulder. "Taking the safe road is good but sometimes you may miss what could be better. I'd rather love and get hurt than not love at all. Like the Tennyson poem goes, ''tis better to have loved and lost, than never to have loved at all.' Well, it's a good thing you'll be gone for a few days. Maybe it will help you clear your head, and you can decide what you want when you come back."

"I hope so." I pulled Becky in for a hug. She was my comfort, my voice of reason, my friend, and my sister. "Thanks."

"Always." She released my hold. "I'm starving. You must be too. Let's make dinner, and you need to start packing soon. Are you excited?"

"Beyond words. I'll send you pictures."

"Make sure to send me shots of all the hot male models," she said and headed out of the bedroom. "Come on, let's make dinner."

"Max made me sing 'Hallelujah,'" I blurted before she disappeared into the living area.

Becky swung around, arching her brows in bewilderment.

"No. I didn't sleep with him," I said before she had a chance to ask. "When he stood in front of me, I imagined his naked body on mine."

Becky's eyes lit up.

"It took every ounce of willpower I had to walk away from him," I continued. "I've never felt that with Luke—ever, or with any other guy."

"You know what you need to do. Singing 'Hallelujah' doesn't come easily." Becky gripped my hand and tugged me out the door. "I'm starving, and we need, girl." Then she started to belt out "Hallelujah" by The Canadian Tenors, making me sing along with her.

Becky had offered to take me to the airport, but I declined. Driving to the airport was bad enough, and I didn't want her to get stuck in traffic. After checking my bag and going through the security gate, which was hell, I sat comfortably waiting to board.

Thumbing through my texts, I saw Luke had arrived home late the previous night. I had texted him earlier to let him know I would be in New York for work over the weekend. He had called me early that morning wishing me a safe trip and said he would take me out when I got back.

I didn't know why I felt as if I had cheated on him; we were just dating, right? Sure, Max had preoccupied my mind even more since our so-called meeting, but we hadn't gone out.

Feeling a little antsy, I got up when a whiff of coffee tickled my nose and headed to Starbucks. After I ordered my favorite, hazelnut latte, I peacefully walked along. I took the moment by myself to clear my head—no friends, no Luke, and especially no Max.

Flipping through the magazines, I decided to buy a few and stuffed them into my oversized bag. I checked my watch and noted the time to board.

A lady scanned my ticket and I filed in line. I walked through the long jet bridge tunnel and then stepped onto the plane.

"Can I help you find your seat?" the flight attendant asked.

"Sure, thank you." After I handed her the ticket, I turned to the coach seats.

"Ma'am, you're going the wrong way."

I gave her a confused expression.

"You're in business class." She smiled.

I let out a nervous snort and followed behind her. _Wow._ I should have checked. I naturally assumed I would be flying in economy class.

Passing through a split curtain, I felt like I stepped onto a different plane. There were fewer seats per row and only about twelve in total. A few people were already seated, but it was fairly empty, while the coach seats were almost full.

"This is your seat, Ms. Mefferd. If you need anything, please let me know. I'll be serving cocktails and lunch soon after we take flight."

"Thank you." I took off my overcoat and hooked it around my arm.

Talk about luxury. Normally, I would have to scoot sideways to get to the window seat, but I walked right to it. Sinking into the plush leather cushion, I buckled the seatbelt, placed my overcoat over me like a blanket, and closed my eyes. With the stress of starting a new job and dealing with the men in my life, I felt exhausted.

When someone shuffled into the seat next to mine, I didn't want to make it obvious by turning my head, so I waited for the opportunity to open up. I didn't have to wait too long.

"It's good to see you again, Ms. Mefferd."

Heat spread through my body as that voice did crazy things to my insides. Slowly, I turned to him and shrank into my seat.

"Mr. Knight? What are you doing here? I mean, are you—will you—are we going to the same destination?"

"I believe so. You're part of my team. Didn't Mrs. Ward inform you?"

I didn't want to get her in trouble, so I played along. "Yes, she did, but she didn't tell me who was on the team. Megan and Jake left yesterday."

"I see." He reached over and tugged on my seatbelt to make sure it wouldn't unbuckle.

As I watched him being so kind to care about my safety, I continued. "Exactly who is on our team?"

"I'm not sure. I just go. I guess we'll find out at dinner tonight."

What he said didn't make sense. It wasn't on my agenda, but I wasn't going to question him.

"Are you comfortable? Would you like a pillow or a blanket?" Max asked.

I snorted. "Do you want me to take a nap?"

Max let out a chuckle. "You don't have to if you don't want to. But when I arrived, you had your eyes closed so I assumed you were tired. You'll be out late tonight. You may want to take a nap. Or maybe you should wait until after lunch since our flight is five hours long."

"Maybe after lunch then."

The words "five hours" rang in my head. I'd be stuck in the same space with Max. What would we talk about, and how could I think of sleep when I sat next to my boss's son?

Come to think of it, how would I even think at all when I'd be with him the whole trip? I had been hoping to escape from it all, and one of the things I wanted to escape sat right next to me. My fingers wiggled, itching to text Becky, but it would have to wait.

Sitting next to Max felt like a dream. Silence filled the space between us as we waited for takeoff. As the plane sped down the runway, getting faster by the second, my heart hammered faster.

My jaw clenched and my hands became numb from holding on to the seat tightly underneath my coat. I dreaded the way my stomach lurched when flying—the same way I felt every day on the elevator to my office.

"Are you okay?" Max asked.

He must have noticed the anxiety on my face. "Yes," I said.

Ascending higher, we broke through the clouds and I was completely awestruck. Nothing but the vast sea of clouds stretched beneath me. I felt like I had wings soaring to heaven.

"Beautiful view, isn't it?"

Max also looked out the window. When I turned to reply, our lips almost touched. I jerked back just in time to save myself from the embarrassment of what could have been.

"Yes, it is," I said.

"Would you like anything to drink, Ms. Mefferd?" the flight attendant asked.

"Water please."

"Make that two," Max said.

Reaching back into her rolling metal tray, she handed me a bottle of water.

After I drank, I took out a magazine and started flipping through the pages. Max peered over to see what I was reading.

"Interesting stuff?" he asked.

"Just something to read to pass the time."

"Hmmm, maybe you should be reading the company policy where it doesn't say you can't go out with anyone you work with."

I giggled softly. His determination was adorable, and he knew how to get a laugh out of me.

"That's because..." I paused. Company policy didn't say you couldn't go out with people you worked with, but I believed it. It would be unprofessional.

If it didn't work out, it could end up bad for both of them. Having this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity wasn't something to throw away for a crush.

"I see you don't have an answer so I must be right. Actually, come to think of it, I'm always right," Max said.

Saved by the flight attendant again, she came to bring our lunch. I had expected it to be the processed, plastic-looking meal I'd always gotten when flying. It actually looked delicious—a bowl of shrimp linguini, a mixed salad, a cup of vegetable soup, cheesecake for dessert, and even an extra bottle of water.

After lunch had been eaten and cleared, Max asked me if I wanted to watch a movie. I told him any movie was fine. He set it up to enable us to watch the same movie at the same time.

After placing the headset on my ears, I concentrated on the screen in front of me. I had only gotten maybe five minutes into the movie when my mind and body floated into a deep slumber. The combination of a full stomach and being tired from not getting enough sleep the night before caught up with me.

I desperately tried to stay awake. No matter how hard I fought, my heavy eyelids surrendered to darkness.

### Chapter 13

"Jenna," a soothing voice whispered.

What a wonderful dream. Max's voice murmured in my ear, and that alone put a smile on my face. My cheeks pinched and my lips curled upward.

Then it came to me. This wasn't a dream.

I opened my eyes to Max's gorgeous face when I heard my name again. We were almost nose to nose, but when I realized my head rested on his shoulder, I jolted upright.

"What time is it?" I asked, embarrassed, shifting back to my seat.

Oh God, my head was on his shoulder, but for how long? And he'd let me.

Leaning over, he brushed the corner of my lip with the tip of his index finger. "Drool much?" He chuckled.

Mortified, I ran my hand over where his finger had just been.

"I was just joking," he teased. "I just needed an excuse to touch you."

I drew back slightly irritated, unsure of how to respond. Though I was flattered, he was too smooth with his words, and I wondered how many girls' hearts or pants he'd sweet-talked his way into.

"Sorry to wake you, but we're landing," he added.

"Okay," I tried to remain professional, reminding myself why I was there in the first place.

New York was three hours ahead. By the time we got to our hotel, it would be close to eight. Through the window displayed the dazzling, colorful city lights of The City That Never Sleeps. Excitement fluttered in my stomach.

After we landed, we went to retrieve our bags and got into the same taxi. I checked my itinerary to confirm we were headed to the same hotel.

My heart raced with exhilaration and every fiber of my body had awakened. I looked out the window, knowing I was where I'd always dreamt of being.

Max must have noticed my excitement. Placing his hand on my shoulder, he gave me a warm smile. I gazed back into his eyes and kept them there a little longer than I had expected to.

I couldn't turn away as he locked me in place. I didn't know if it was from being in such a small space with him or the excitement of the city, but whatever the reason, my heart soared blissfully. I wanted to hold on to this feeling just a while longer before reality settled back in.

The driver honked his horn, cursing loudly as he jerked the car to the left and back to the same lane. "Everyone okay back there?" he shouted.

"Don't you lock your doors?" Max growled in anger. His arm around me tightened.

"Sorry." the taxi spat like it was no big deal.

"I should have asked my admin assistance to arrange a ride for us. I'm so sorry. My driver got sick."

He has a private driver? Of course he does.

Had Max not grabbed me, my head would have pounded against the window. Not only that, I had unintentionally opened the door when I grabbed the handle as the cab swerved.

The seat belt would've held me in place, but half of my body would have ended up hanging out the door. The thought alone terrified me.

Thank goodness Max had fast reflexes. From the intensity of his pull, my breast had collided with his firm chest, and my head slid perfectly into the crook of his neck. I sucked in a breath when I noticed my arms had draped around his neck.

"It's okay. You're safe," he said softly, caressing my back.

Unable to say anything, my shivering was my response. He held me, and I held him.

It felt so right, and yet so wrong, but I welcomed it because right then I needed to feel safe. When I tried to pull back, he wouldn't let go, so I relaxed my muscles. The truth was, I didn't want him to let me go.

Max smelled so heavenly. I wanted to indulge myself in the taste of him. A bubble of desire had built up too fast. I could feel myself losing control, especially when his warm breath tickled the side of my face.

"We're here," he released a soft sigh, seemingly fighting something in himself.

When his hand slid off my back, he directed my body forward. I was afraid to make eye contact, afraid of what emotion I would see. I needed to get myself under control.

The door swung open and I stepped out with my workbag.

The icy breeze stung my cheeks. Max's arm draped around my shoulders, guiding me through the entrance of The Plaza Hotel.

I shouldn't have let him hold me, but I was still shaken up from the cab ride. Lisa had warned me about the crazy taxi drivers. Well, she was on point. Max let go when we reached the front desk.

"Hello, and welcome to The Plaza Hotel. Do you have a reservation with us?" the receptionist asked.

"Yes." I gave her the information she asked for.

While I waited, I looked over my shoulder and saw Max standing by the sofa, checking his messages on his cell phone. He had already checked in. Was he waiting for me?

I cursed the unfairness. Why did he have to be my boss's son? And why did my heart thunder like crazy at the mere thought of him? Apparently, I wasn't the only one. He paid no attention to the ladies passing by, smiling and checking him out.

Finally, the desk clerk gave me the key and directions to my room. Trying to forget what had happened ten minutes earlier, I glanced around for Max, but he was already behind me.

"Ready?" He said.

"Yes." I smiled.

"I'll lead the way." He matched his pace to mine.

"Are we headed the same direction?" I asked.

"Mrs. Ward tries her best to book our rooms close together."

"Oh." I gulped, unsure why I was panicking.

As we headed toward the elevator, I glanced about the elegant hotel, adorned with the finest furniture and decor. I'd never be able to afford to stay anywhere so luxurious on my own. It was definitely an added bonus to work at one of the hottest fashion magazines.

Standing in front of the elevator, I reached over to push the button at the same time Max did. His hand accidentally touched mine. I pulled back and Max did too. In the process, his hand caught mine and stayed there longer than it needed to before he let go.

"Sorry." He gestured for me to enter when the elevator door slid open.

Stepping inside, I went straight to the right corner while Max pressed the button for the thirty-eighth floor. When he turned to me, he arched his brows in bewilderment.

"I don't like elevators," I explained.

"I could make the ride a whole lot better." He twitched his brows playfully.

Luckily the bell saved me, and he stood at my side when an elderly couple entered. We had stopped on the twentieth floor.

"It's going up," the old lady huffed with a frustrated tone. "See, I told you we got on the wrong elevator. We need to go down."

"What did you say?" the old man asked.

"Never mind. You always pretend not to hear me when I'm right."

"It's no wonder, I can't hear at all. You think you're right all the time."

Max and I exchanged glances, trying not to laugh.

Then silence filled the air as I felt the weight of his stare. When the elevator binged on our floor, Max held the door and waited for me to exit.

Max turned back to the elderly man. "Sometimes you just have to let it go. It's not worth the fight." Then he let the door close. "This way." He turned left and again he slowed to wait for me.

Such a gentleman. His simple gestures melted my heart. But how did he know my room number?

Strolling down the quiet hallway, I wondered where his room was, but we didn't have to walk far before I found out.

"I believe this is your room," he said.

He was right. I scanned the keycard and it made a clicking sound. Max opened the door for me.

"Thank you," I said.

"Your suitcase will be delivered to your room. Let me know what you would like to eat, and I'll have it sent to your room."

Max had people doing things for him, but he was going out of his way to make me comfort.

"Sure, but where's your room?"

"I'm right next door."

I didn't know why that made me nervous. It wasn't as if we shared the same room. After I thanked him again, I entered to set my eyes on a humongous, too-big-for-one-person, breathtaking room with a view to the dazzling city lights.

### Chapter 14

I woke up to my buzzing alarm. I didn't want to get up. The sheets, the pillows, all felt so soft and comfortable. Everything about the room was grand—from the large flat-screen TV, to the bathroom designed for a queen, to my bedroom that connected to the huge living room. Did everyone get a room like this?

Stretching and yawning while enjoying the peace, I plunked my feet down on the plush beige carpet, then slipped them into the luxurious white slippers provided by the hotel. Admiring the bedroom once more, I headed to the bathroom and stopped when I saw a white envelope that had been slipped under the door.

I opened it to find it was from Max.

Dearest Jenna,

Sorry I can't be with you this morning. I have a long meeting. I'll meet you at the fashion show. Your admission ticket is inside. Eagerly waiting to see you later.

Your favorite, one and only lunch buddy.

I didn't know what to make of the letter. It wasn't professional, but regardless, it put a huge smile on my face. As promised, I took a picture of my room and sent it to my friends. I considered telling them Max was there too, but I decided to wait.

The doorman opened the door for me and I climbed into the taxi. After I gave the driver the address, we pulled into traffic. Elated, I peered out the window as excitement surged through my veins.

I couldn't wait to see the fashion show. I'd been dreaming of this since—well, ever since I was old enough to remember. Thankfully, the driver wasn't the chatty type, so in order to pass the time, I observed the pedestrians on the sidewalk. An endless stream of people scurried to their destinations. Before I knew it, we had reached ours.

The wind swept me and I almost knocked someone over when I got out. When I apologized, she looked at me like I was crazy. That was New York for you.

I glanced around and noted how many people were already here. Weaving in and out of the crowds hanging about, I pushed my way to the front entrance.

I pulled out my ticket to show the lady.

"Thank you." The lady pointed to her right and handed me a pamphlet.

"Jenna." I heard my name from a distance.

I searched for the voice.

"Jake." I waved.

"You made it," he said and embraced me. "This is my team. And Jenna, this is Megan."

Megan was hired for the position I wanted.

"Yes, hello Megan." I shook her hand.

"What was your name again?" She flashed a coy smile.

"Jenna." I clenched my teeth from saying anything I would regret.

"Oh yes. I remember now. You interviewed for the position I got."

I wanted to scrub off her smirk with a spiky sponge. Way to sock it to me, and for what reason? But I wasn't going to let her put me down.

"I did, but they needed my expertise in a different department."

Megan had no retort. Instead she ignored me and waved at someone in the distance.

"Are we sitting together?" Jake looked at my ticket.

"I don't know." I glanced as his finger pointed to a number.

"You got the VIP seat? How did that happen?" His eyes beamed with excitement for me.

Megan shot her eyes at me. That got her attention all right. "Are you sure, Jake?"

"Well, she isn't sitting with us. We're on the opposite side. It makes sense. I'm with all the camera crews. But Megan—"

"We better get to our seats," Megan snapped and took off.

I glanced at my ticket and stopped at the number that matched my seat. I double-checked to make sure I had the right one and settled in. When I saw some movie stars, I wanted to squeal at the top of my lungs. I maintained my composure and excitement while I flipped through the pamphlet.

Too occupied with reading, I didn't realize someone had sat down next to me. A warm hand gripped mine, and I immediately knew it was Max. It had to be. No one else spread heat through my body that fast, and no one else smelled the way he did.

"You beat me here," he said.

It had been less than twenty-four hours since I last saw him, but the butterflies were still there.

"Yes I did," I said.

"I assume you got my note?"

"Yes." I avoided his eyes.

"Did you eat lunch?"

"Yes."

"You didn't replace me with another lunch buddy, did you?"

That got my attention.

I met his gaze and beamed a smile. "I—no."

His lips curled as he stared at me.

With much effort, I turned away, fanning myself with the pamphlet.

Breathe. Breathe. Breathe.

"You got a pamphlet?" His tone went up a notch.

Like a dummy, no words escaped my mouth. Instead, my eyes shifted to the pamphlet still in my hand.

I stiffened when his shoulder touched mine.

"I guess they only give pamphlets to beautiful ladies," he whispered.

Thankfully, the upbeat music blasted and the emcee came into view, breaking my nervousness.

Max reached into his bag and handed me a small notebook and a pen. "Here you go. Your job is to pick several dresses for the cover of our next issue, and I'll pick my favorites, then we'll compare."

No pressure there. It was the reason I was asked to go, I guessed.

"Thanks," I said and began to jot down a few things.

As the models gracefully strutted down the long runway, I felt lucky to be there. Model after model, dress after dress, designer names from Gucci, Dior, Dolce and Gabbana, and Oscar de la Renta—it was a heavenly show. And yes, there were hot male models, but I forgot to take pictures for Becky. She'd have to imagine it when I tell her about it.

I took notes on the dresses I thought would look great on the front cover of our next issue, but nothing could compare with the next dress. It was the most gorgeous gown I had ever laid eyes on. In a way, it reminded me of the red dress Julia Roberts wore in _Pretty Woman_ , one of the movies my friends and I had watched together. But this Gucci dress was a hundred times—no, a thousand times prettier.

The model wore it slightly off the shoulder. It hugged her curves and flared out at the waist with a long sexy slit up the front. Layers of sheer chiffon floated beneath the skirt of the dress, topped with a velvety sateen bodice.

"What do you think of that dress?" Max whispered.

"It's absolutely gorgeous. I'm in love with it." I gushed. "I believe that's the winner. It's my number one pick."

Her long hair swayed with the rhythm of her sexy stride. I wanted to be her. I wanted to be the one wearing that dress.

After the show, everyone stood and applauded for what seemed like forever.

"There is a gathering you need to attend tonight." Max leaned closer to tell me over the noise. "It's not on your agenda, but you need to be there."

I swallowed a lump of anxiousness. "I don't have anything to wear. I didn't bring—what time do I need to be there? Maybe I can go shopping for a dress."

_Oh God._ I started panicking and Max saw the expression on my face.

When he placed his hands on my shoulders, I immediately eased the tension.

"Don't worry. Go back to the hotel. I'll have several dresses brought to you. You can decide which one you like best."

I didn't know what to say. There was no refusing his suggestion. And having a dress for me to choose from, he was simply amazing that way.

"There's a limo waiting for you. My driver will be holding a white sign with your name on it. You should go now before the mad rush." He pointed toward the exit. His breath brushed up against the side of my ear as he said. "See you soon."

Quivering from the feel of his lips slightly touching my skin, my body levitated off the ground as I headed out.

### Chapter 15

As soon as I got to the hotel, I headed straight to my room. I contemplated texting Max. No dresses arrived. Had I misheard him?

I pulled out my black evening bag from my suitcase. It was just big enough to hold my cell phone and a couple of small items.

I noted I had several text messages from Becky and Luke. I had forgetting to turn the sound button back on?

Becky: _Hope you're having fun. Your room looks fantastic. I want to come._

Me: _Love it here so far. Tell you all about it when I get home_.

I couldn't wait to tell her. She would flip to hear about Max.

Clicking over to Luke, I flushed with guilt. I'd had a blast so far, and even though I hate to admit it, I was happy to be there with Max.

A soft knock on the door. I peeked through the peephole. A man held a long black garment bag.

"Yes?"

"I have your dress, ma'am."

Cracking the door open, I smiled. "Thank you."

"May I come in and place this down for you?"

I stepped aside. "Sure." Reaching into my purse, I fidgeted with my wallet as I watched him place the garment gently on my bed, along with a fancy box.

Eyeing me, he raised a hand. "Ma'am, that isn't necessary. I don't work for this hotel."

"Oh...umm, I thought there were several other dresses I could pick from." I tried not to sound like a diva.

"I was told to bring this one and this box."

"Oh." I felt like a dork. I hoped I hadn't offended him. "Then you came from—?"

"I work for Mr. Knight." He marched to the door. "Have a great time tonight, ma'am," he said and closed the door behind him.

I glanced at the clock. I had half an hour to get ready. Plenty of time.

Carefully I unzipped the bag and gasped. No, it couldn't be. How? Surely it wasn't exactly the same dress the model had worn. She was taller than me, unless they had extras with different sizes. Silly thought.

Without further hesitation, I opened the small box. _Holy sweet Jesus._ It was a necklace. The diamond pendant sparkled like a sunburst.

Was this real? Surely it wasn't a gift. Perhaps he borrowed it. Actresses did that all the time. And if by some chance it was a gift, I would return it to him. But it would be stunning with the dress.

The temperature was perfect inside the huge, rented building.

White lights hung on the walls and the decor, making the place seem magical. Soft music filled the air and the smell of the appetizers made my stomach rumble. With all the excitement, I had forgotten to eat dinner.

Striding toward the reception room, I was careful not to stumble on my dress. I wished it didn't drag the ground, mostly because I didn't want to dirty it.

Clutching my purse tightly, I proceeded across the room, looking for Max or anyone from our company. People turned their heads and stared at me. They must've thought the dress and necklace were beautiful too _._

With all eyes on me, I inclined my head, occasionally peering up. I almost wished I hadn't worn the dress.

Groups of people mingled, smiling, laughing, and truly enjoying themselves, but I felt alone as I stood there by myself, until my phone vibrated inside my purse.

It was a text message from an unknown caller.

Hello, lady in red. You look breathtaking. I could stare at you all night.

I blushed, probably just as red as my dress. _Who are you?_

You don't know? Shame on you.

Sorry.

You should put your hair up like that more often.

Why?

If you want to know who I am, look to your left.

Putting my phone back in place, I did as the text suggested. As if on cue, Jake stood in front of me. His eyes fell from my hair down to my heels.

"Jenna. You look absolutely beautiful. I mean, not that you don't every day."

His compliment made me blush, but the flush deepened when he gave me a tight squeeze and a kiss on my cheek. A part of me felt disappointed Jake had been the texter, rather than the person I'd hoped.

The phone buzzed again, but I ignored it.

"You look great too," I replied.

He kept staring at my dress. "Is that the Gucci dress from the runway?"

"To tell you the truth, I'm not quite sure." Before he could ask me tons of questions I couldn't answer, I changed the subject. "So, is your team here?"

"Yes. We just got here. They headed directly to the bar." He snorted. "And Megan is here somewhere." He spun around, as if searching for her.

Ignoring the phone buzzing again, I placed my hand on his shoulder. "It's okay. No need to find her. I'm sure I'll catch her sooner or later." Preferably later. Ever since she was snooty to me, I wanted to avoid her as much as possible.

"Jake, I'm so sorry. Can you excuse me? My phone keeps beeping."

"Sure, but don't forget to save me a dance later."

"There's dancing?" I mumbled under my breath as I reached in for my phone.

Not that left, the other left. And I hope you're not disappointed it wasn't Jake.

I scowled at the thought of him hiding somewhere, toying with me. At least the text wasn't from Jake, not that he wasn't attractive. And why was I even thinking like this?

Being far away from home, thoughts of Luke had faded. But it wasn't fair to him. Which reminded me I had forgotten to text him back. I made a mental note of it as I turned to the other left. What other left?

I guessed he meant his left. Confused, I just spun in the opposite direction of where I'd turned last time. Crowds of people held their cocktail drinks, but nobody approached me to claim the texts.

_Where? Do I even know you?_ I texted back, a bit frustrated.

That's not a nice thing to say. Look up.

My eyes followed the stairs and then up to my right, then...Wow, he made me breathless, froze me in place as he locked his eyes with mine. And with that smile he did so well, his expression said it all, calling out for me. Looking ever so debonair in a black tuxedo and a crimson tie to match my dress, he leaned forward to rest his elbows on the banister. I had simply died and gone to heaven.

Spellbound, my heart drummed against my chest. As he stared intensely, he strode toward me, graceful yet dangerous, like a predator stalking prey. I was immobilized, and he would have me for dinner.

_Oh God._ He was coming for me.

With every step he took, my heart pounded harder, wanting and needing him. I could already feel his strong, yet gentle hand on my face, his breath on my skin, and I quivered from his presence alone. Naughty thoughts began to dance in my head, filling me with blazing heat.

His gaze broke, and something purple filtered through my vision. With open arms, Megan approached him. In fear of what I may see, I turned swiftly as my heart dropped to the floor. She might as well have dug her heels through it.

I snapped out of the spell and headed to the bar. When I got there, I had no idea what I was ordering.

"Do you have something sweet with no alcohol?" Forget that. I needed a drink to cool down my anger, anger toward him and Megan, and toward myself for being stupid. "Wait. Something with a little alcohol, please?"

The bartender tried to hold in a laugh, most likely guessing my low tolerance level since I'd said "a little." He reached for a wine glass, poured some liquid from several bottles and handed it to me.

"Here you go. Something sweet, and not too much alcohol."

"Thank you." I turned on my heels to walk away and almost ran into Jake. Thank goodness he had jolted back, or I would have dumped my drink on him. But then again, he would have deserved it for sneaking up so close behind me.

"There you are. I've been looking for you."

I needed a distraction and Jake had perfect timing.

"Hey," I lifted my drink to him. "I'm here. I went to get a drink."

"Me too. And I also got one for you. It's red wine, nothing special."

"That was sweet of you. Thank you."

"Since you already have one, I'll hold on to it. You don't need to be holding two."

It went quiet for an awkward second as I glanced around the room for Max. I told myself not to, but I couldn't help it. When I didn't find him, I took a sip of my drink. Sweet, but I could taste the alcohol.

Most people wouldn't, but being a lightweight, I normally tasted the smallest drop. It had the usual effect when I drank a few sips. My chest and cheeks warmed uncomfortably.

A waitress holding a plate of shrimp headed in our direction. She caught me looking at her plate.

"Here you go." She handed napkins to Jake and me.

We reached in to grab some shrimp.

"Thank you," I said, already devouring it. I wanted more since I hadn't eaten dinner, but I didn't want to look like a pig. "They've done a great job with the decoration." I broke the silence. "I mean, even though it's just a bunch of lights and sofas here and there, it really looks beautiful. Don't you think?"

"Yeah, I guess. I don't care about the decor. I like their appetizers and free drinks, and now your company."

I should have said something but stiffened when I saw Max with another lady, perhaps one of the runway models. She was tall, blonde, and attractive, like the other models.

I wondered what he said to make her giggle. But every woman giggled like that around Max. Oh God, did I?

Telling myself to turn around didn't help. I probably looked like a stalker or a jealous girlfriend, but I was neither. Then something purple got in my way.

"Jenna. Where did you buy your dress?" Megan asked, without even a greeting or a smile.

I considered what to say. I had been so excited to wear it I hadn't questioned it. Max had told me to wait for a few dresses, but only one came, the one I had marveled at, the one I had told him should be on the front cover.

"Jenna. Is that real?" Her eyes were deadlocked to my necklace.

"Borrowed," I stated. I wished she would stop asking me questions.

From the corner of my eye, I saw the model's hand brush against Max's arm. Pure jealousy raged through me. What was wrong with me? Max caught my stare before I could turn away. He ignored the blonde and winked at me.

_Oh please, not the wink_. That wink produced all sorts of crazy flips in my stomach. Without responding or acknowledging him, I turned and gulped down all of my drink.

What had I done?

Any minute now I'd be as red as a stoplight. I needed water. When I turned, Megan still stared at me.

"So, you came with Mr. Knight? I mean, Max?" She started with her questions. "And now you're wearing one of the runway dresses. Hmmm, you do know what this means, don't you?"

"Excuse me?" I didn't like being grilled by her. It was none of her business.

Megan shifted her weight and took a sip of wine. Her purple dress was beautiful, but not on her.

"Well, there are rumors, and I don't know if you want to know, but—"

Jake gaped between Megan and me, then back to Megan. "I don't think she really cares, Megan."

She shot him an evil eye that made him back away. "As I was saying, I'm just thinking of you. This honestly doesn't concern me. Rumor has it Max likes to pick an apple, shine it up, eat it, and spit it back out when he's finished. So do be careful. You should stay away from him." Then she walked away, waving to someone from afar.

"Hey." Jake stroked my arm. "It's probably the alcohol talking. She isn't that—"

Before Jake could finish his sentence, I took the wine glass he held for me and gulped it down. Either I was tipsy or the phone buzzed in my purse. _Oh, whatever._ My head swam and the alcohol was helping me forget what Megan had said.

Forget Max...especially Max.

"Let's dance." I tugged Jake toward the band where people swayed to the music.

As Jake and I danced, Megan's words echoed in my mind. No way would I be the apple, and no way would I be the apple he would spit out.

What else had she said?

I couldn't remember anymore.

As I swayed to the music, strands of my hair that had been pinned up fell onto my bare back. When I twisted to the left, I saw Max. He had moved closer to the dance floor too, and he was still with the blonde chick and several others, but he didn't seem to pay attention to them.

Whatever. I didn't care. But I did care for only one reason: he stared at me intensely. He could've burned holes right through me. Or was he burning holes through Jake?

He clenched his jaw when Jake's hand went around my waist.

The music pounding through the floor changed its pace to a calmer one. A relief because I couldn't move another muscle. Plus, the room was scorching hot, like a harsh, searing summer in Los Angeles when temperatures climbed over one hundred degrees.

The room started to spin and a humming sound vibrated in my head. Everything seemed to move at a slower pace. I could feel my arms draped around Jake's neck, but I didn't remember putting them there.

I couldn't even register when Jake's mouth opened to say something. Even through my haze, I realized I was utterly wasted.

I turned to where Max stood earlier, but it took a great deal of effort to do so. My mind and body worked out of sync.

He was gone.

Then his sexy voice sang in my eardrum. It was not my imagination. Max stood next to me, and Jake's grip on my waist loosened.

Max's strong arms held me in place as he swayed to the music. I wasn't sure what I did, maybe just stood there. Somehow my arms rested on his.

"How many drinks have you had?" His tone was stern but gentle.

"I-I think...one. No, two?" I stammered softly, unable to look him in the eye. Basically, I spoke to his chest. I worried I had lost my job.

"You want to talk to my chest or do you want to look at me?"

I'd gotten myself in trouble, a huge amount of trouble. Not only was I buzzed, but probably red from head to toe, blending in with the dress. And clearly, my reaction was totally unprofessional.

I was ashamed I had let my emotions get the best of me. I had let Max get the best of me. Maybe he couldn't tell, I hoped.

"Look at me," he ordered.

I peered up slowly, squinting my eyes. My head throbbed, pulsating like my heart.

"Just as I thought," Max's voice was monotone.

"Sssorry. I'm sorry. I'm so hot." My slurred words sounded unclear and strange to my ears.

"You're hot in more ways than one," he said, gliding his arms to my back.

I quivered, aware of his hands on me.

"Geez, Jenna." His voice was loud, vibrating in my head, even though the volume of the music drowned out his voice. Max touched my cheeks and pulled me away with his fingers tightly gripped on my arm. "You're burning up." His arm was around my shoulders. "Come with me. I'm taking you out of here."

### Chapter 16

I couldn't recall how I had gotten here. It was quiet, away from the crowd, away from the noise, but I still roasted inside as if my body had been baked in the oven.

Something cold was underneath my bottom. I realized I sat atop a granite countertop and the slit of my dress exposed my legs wide open.

I groggily rolled my head and noted two sinks and three stalls. I was in the women's restroom. Someone walked out of a stall. No, I was in the men's room. What the hell?

"Are you okay?" Max's face loomed in my view. He braced his hands on the counter on either side of me, examining me with an amused grin on his face.

Thank God it was Max. What was I thinking? Not good at all. But better him than a stranger, I supposed.

"Hot, Maxxx," I slurred.

"You can call me that any time, babe." His lips curled up, brushing his hand against my cheek.

His hand felt so cool on my face, I welcomed it by letting out a soft moan. Did he just call me babe? It was the only thing I understood.

"Yes. I understand," he continued. "You feel hot. Are you okay? Do you need something? I should have gotten you some water, but I didn't want to leave you here by yourself."

Taking in his cool hand on my cheek, I grabbed it and placed it on the space between the necklace and my cleavage. It felt so good.

Max stiffened. "Jenna. What are you doing? I wouldn't do that if I were you. Now you're making me feel hot," he sighed, pulling back, creating a wider space between us.

I managed to let go, only to refocus on his tie. "Pretty. I-I...like ved." Then I yanked him closer to me and rubbed his tie on my face.

"I like red too," he chuckled. "But I like red on you. And you are not yourself."

"Soffffft," I mumbled, ignoring what he had said.

"Jenna." He pulled me back again. "How many drinks did you have?"

"No dinner...sooo hungry." I waved up three fingers and pointed to each one as I spoke. "Twoooo...one...two."

Max chuckled. "You're holding up three fingers." He closed one down. "There, two."

"Thanksss, Max." I pulled him in for a hug. "I-I like toussh you."

"I'd like to touch you too, babe, but you need to agree to go out to dinner with me first."

My head had made its way to his shoulder and it rested there. "Dinner hungry...yes."

"Okay. You said it. So only two drinks and this is how you are? Such a lightweight. With that look of a bad sunburn, you must be allergic to alcohol too."

"Aller...ic," I sighed deeply.

"If you knew what would happen, and knowing you with all your 'gotta be professional' talk, why did you drink?"

Only hearing some of what he said, I didn't answer.

"Jenna, answer me. I know you can hear me." His tone startled me so much I twitched. "Sorry. I didn't mean to scare you."

It was mostly the alcohol talking and a part of me screamed to hold back, to get a grip on myself. Perhaps because of the quietness or the intimacy of us being alone in a small space, I opened up.

"You." I poked him in the chest. My finger bounced back from his hard pecs. "Bad."

"What do you mean?"

"You and girlssss."

His face lit up with a smirk, seeming to like what I had said. "So you were jealous?"

"No...yes...no..." I shook my head, desperately trying to compose myself, running my hand down my face. What was I jabbering about? Then Megan's words invaded my mind, making me upset. "You eat aplesss...shine...spit." Trying to make a spitting gesture, I bit my tongue and blew.

Max chuckled. "You make no sense."

Sliding the palm of my hand from my face, down to my neck, over my breast, I moaned as I tried to pull down the dress. "Hot."

Max's eyes grew wider, then leaned closer. "Don't do that." He sighed against my ear.

The puff of air from his mouth felt soothing and cool.

"More," I ran my hand on his face.

Max pulled back and blew softly on my face, on my shoulders, and a little lower. I quivered. When he stopped, I pouted, my lips protruding out.

"Jenna, don't do that. You are just too adorable. Okay. I need to cool off." Max took sidesteps and splashed water on his face.

"Tired...hot," I groaned.

"I know, but I need to cool you down first." Max pulled out several paper towels, folded them into squares, and ran them under the faucet. After squeezing them, he placed them on my forehead, and a soft moan escaped my mouth.

"Don't make that sound, Jenna. You're turning me on."

"Hot."

"Yes. I know you're hot, but you're not as hot as I am right now." He sounded agitated and a deep growl parted his lips.

He ran the paper towel under water again. Instead of placing it back on my forehead, he placed it on my cheek, gliding it slowly down my neck, my shoulder, to my collarbone, and what he did next awakened my sex drive. He squeezed it, letting the water pour down the middle of my cleavage, sending crazy shivers through every part of me.

"Maaa," I moaned, reaching for him, but he caught my arm.

"No, no, no. You can't touch me and I can't touch you. You don't know how badly I want to take you right here and now, but it would be wrong, plus you have no idea what I'm saying to you. There is also the sexual harassment policy. We're here on business, not for pleasure, although the pleasure is mine to see you this way opening up and all. Hell, I should have given you a drink the first time we met. Yes. The first time we met, 'cause I wanted my hands all over your body. I know you won't accuse me of anything, but anyhow, not this way, not here. After you go out with me on a real date, then I can touch you anywhere you like."

As my head pounded, I understood most of what he said. I wanted to tell him I wanted him too, but no words escaped my mouth. I had already said too much, and I fought the urge to just seize him and kiss him madly, but there was that word again. He was my boss's son. And what the hell was I doing?

With a sigh, my head thumped on Max's chest. "Tired...hot."

Max stroked my hair, making me sleepy. "I know. Just hang in there. The redness has gone down. Don't worry. I'm right here. I'll take care of you."

"Sorrrry." I snuggled up to him.

In his arms I felt at home, safe, and in the most unexpected way, this felt so right.

### Chapter 17

I sat on the restroom counter with my legs spread apart.

"Jenna," Max called softly, pulling me into a trance. The way he said my name sounded so sexy.

He gave me that wicked grin, caressing my back and making their way down sensually. My dress had come undone, my breast expose. I shuddered from the cool air and unbridled lust. Somehow Max had unhooked my bra at the same time, but it didn't surprise me; he was good with his hands in more ways than one.

My nipples hardened, wanting and needing to be touched by him.

"You're beautiful, Jenna. I'll never get enough of you." He caressed my breast with his face, teasing me with a flick of his tongue.

"Oh, Max," I moaned as a fire ignited between my legs.

Desperately wanting more of him, I gripped a handful of his hair. When he sucked my nipples harder, I moaned louder, arching my back.

Max gripped my hair, pulled my face to his, and sucked my bottom lip. Then he slid his body between my legs while he continued to kiss me as if he couldn't get enough.

He let go of my hair, and his hands glided down to my breasts. When he pinched my nipples, both pleasure and pain erupted in me. He slid one hand lower to my G-string and rubbed his thumb right over my most sensitive area.

"Max, please," I begged through gritted teeth, throbbing and aching for him. I wanted him inside me.

As if he could read my mind, with a strong quick yank, he tore my underwear, which left me even hotter and panting for him even more.

"You want me, Jenna? I know you do. Show me," he demanded as he dipped a finger into my wetness.

I unbuckled his belt. Max released me, bent down, and stood up again. He was already inside me, moaning.

Oh God. He felt so good. With every thrust, my heart pounded with ecstasy, fulfilling my desire for him. Then he cupped my ass sternly and grinded deeper and faster, riding me. My body felt like it was about to explode, as I came near climaxing. Then, it all stopped.

Max disappeared and everything went dark, but the ache between my legs remained, pulsating like a thumping heart. It was worse than before.

I realized it had been a dream—an incredibly hot, wet, steamy, aching, needing-to-get-rid-of-this-throb dream. It felt wonderfully real and a part of me wished it were. It wasn't the first time I'd dreamt about him like that.

My throat scratched like I had swallowed sand. The urge to quench the overwhelming burning sensation in my throat forced me to sit up, but when I did, a moaning sound escaped my mouth from the throbbing headache. Not only that, the room spun so I kept my eyes closed.

I could get to the kitchen in my apartment with my eyes closed, so I headed out of my bedroom. _Bam!_ I ran into the wall. My eyes shot open. Then it dawned on me. I was in my hotel room—the expensive, beautiful room I'd probably never get to stay in again after today.

_Oh, this headache and..._ I needed water _. Why am I feeling this way_?

Trying to recall the events of the previous night hurt even more. I squinted my eyes to see the clock. It was close to ten in the morning, but since the curtains were still drawn, it felt like the middle of the night.

I spotted an open bottle of water, though I had no idea how it got there. When I reached for it, I froze. Next to the bottle, a small yellow sticky note read "Drink Me."

It looked like Max's writing.

The past night's occurrences vividly rushed to the forefront of my mind and my eyes flew wide open. I went to the party and got wasted. _Oh no._ This was terrible, so unprofessional. I had never drunk that much before. How much—two maybe? Then Jake and I danced...then Max. How did I get here?

I drank from my water bottle. It felt cool and refreshing slipping down my throat. Wanting to sit down for a bit, I turned, and there he was, sitting on the sofa, sprawled out comfortably, watching me.

He was gorgeous in the morning light with just a plain white T-shirt and cotton shorts on. Half the water I had just gulped spurted out of my mouth like a mini fountain, and the other half went down the wrong pipe.

As I coughed relentlessly, Max came to me. "Are you okay?" He massaged my back. "Here. Take another sip. It should help. You mentioned something about spitting last night, but I didn't think you meant it," he chuckled. "And you must have had one wild dream, or you were in awful pain to moan like that."

_Oh God._ My face burned and I was too embarrassed to look at him. If I did, he would know I had dreamt about us having sex in the restroom. I only hoped I hadn't said aloud all the things I had said in my dream, like calling out his name.

The horrendous coughing stopped and left me with only some lingering ones. "I don't remember. What happened? How did I get here? I mean—" How do you ask these questions to your boss's son? Not that he would squeal on me, but...

I sat on the edge of the bed and then realized I wore a plain white T-shirt that looked just like his. And to top it off, I had nothing on underneath except for my G-string. Not having had a chance to look in the mirror, I was horrified.

I imagined my makeup all smeared, and my hair resembling a bird's nest. Pulling the blanket up, I tucked the blanket under my arms.

Instead of sitting next to me, Max stood in place. "Everything is all right, Jenna. Don't worry about this, okay?" His tone was so tender I believed him, but I needed answers.

"How did I get here?"

"I brought you here. No one knows about this. You were red, bright red. Or 'ved' as you called it." He gave a devilish grin.

"I-I did not," I said sheepishly. Did I?

"Oh yes, you did. You also said a bunch of other stuff." Max sat on the bed, creating massive flutters in my stomach.

I gulped and closed my eyes, then opened them to ask him the question I dreaded to ask, "Did we...umm, did you and me...did you spend the night?"

He gave me a sideways glance. "Don't bite your finger, Jenna." He pulled it out of my mouth. I'd been totally unaware I was doing it. He seemed baffled by my question. "Depends on what you mean by 'spend the night.'"

Anger brewed inside me, in part because he hadn't given me a clear-cut answer. I tried to calm down, but it wasn't working. "Who changed me? And why am I wearing your T-shirt?" My tone came out a bit angrier and louder than I had intended.

Hurt and anger showed in his eyes, making me want to take back what I had said and how I had said it. Under those thick eyelashes, his eyes glared at me. I could tell he was mad by the way he wrung the comforter. He stood and ran his hand through his hair.

"You think I took advantage of you? You think I could be that low?" He paced back and forth. "First of all, I took care of you so you wouldn't make a fool of yourself. For someone who can't tolerate alcohol, you sure didn't care last night. That was unprofessional of you. You represent the company when you're at a function."

My headache throbbed again, but this time from guilt and shame. I should have been more careful with my words, and I should not have assumed the worst, but what was I supposed to think? Water pooled in my eyes, but I refused to shed a tear.

Max continued with a softer tone. "You were burning up last night. I was worried about you. I've never had an experience with anyone who couldn't tolerate alcohol, so I didn't know what to do. I sure as hell wasn't going to leave you by yourself. I didn't want to fumble through your drawers, so I gave you my T-shirt. I swear I didn't look, which is the reason why it is on backwards. You changed yourself. When I tucked you into bed, I managed to make you take a couple of sips of water. You were quite stubborn, by the way. Then you passed out. Just in case you needed me"—he pointed—"I slept on the sofa. Now you know what happened." Then he stormed out of my room.

The whole time he spoke, my head hung down in shame. I felt so awful. He had taken care of me and that was how I thanked him. The tears that had threatened to fall made their way down my cheeks.

When Max left I couldn't fathom the reasons why but my heart ached unbearably for two reasons: I felt bad and he'd just walked off, like we had broken up. A part of me said to stay put, but the other half said to run to him and apologize. The second half won.

"Max," I muttered under my breath and walked out of the bedroom into the living area.

I had forgotten I was half-naked, but I didn't care. I needed to apologize, and by the time I could've put my clothes on, it would've been too late.

Either he didn't hear me or he'd chosen to ignore me because he kept on walking through a door I hadn't noticed before. I didn't know our rooms adjoined. It was easy to miss because the place was too damn big.

Max stepped out of sight, so I sprinted. I had only turned my head for a second, when I slammed into something hard. Instinctively, I reached for something stable to stop myself from falling flat on my butt.

My arms wrapped around the nape of Max's neck, and I felt his warm arms against my ass. I tried to pull away, or maybe I didn't, but Max gripped me firmly.

Our bodies pressed so tightly together my nipples perked. Heat blazed through me, and I completely dissolved in his embrace.

Quivering, I stared at his manly, sexy Adam's apple as neither one of us moved a muscle. Knowing one of us had to do something, I slowly peered upward. His neck muscles stretched under my fingers as he stared down.

We were eye to eye, nose to nose, lips to lips, and heated tingling sensations shot between my legs.

"I'm so sorry," I managed to breathe out, worried if I spoke any louder he would hear how hard I panted.

He didn't respond to my apology. Instead, his angry eyes softened with tenderness and perhaps even desire. His heated breaths on my lips tantalized me.

With a sharp intake of air, I felt the tiniest, circular motion on my butt, causing an aching need between my legs. It got worse when his eyes shifted to my lips while he bit down on his bottom one.

As I concentrated on his lips I wanted to devour, I hadn't realized my hands had slid down to the sides of his neck. Taking in every angle and curve, I trailed my hands downward to his ripped muscular chest that was perfect in every way. He was beautiful.

When his clenched hand loosened on the back of the T-shirt, I knew he was finally letting me go. Reaching for my face, he blotted the wetness with his thumb.

"You were crying?" He sounded shocked. His relaxed body stiffened. "Shit. I'm sorry to blow up at you like that. It's just that..." He raked his hair back and parted his lips, apparently wanting to say something. Instead, he pressed his forehead against mine. "I'm sorry too. Don't cry. I don't like to see you cry. Go take a shower. I need one too, an icy cold one."

When Max twitched his brows playfully, everything slipped back to normal, except for the aching need lingering between my legs. I needed a cold shower too.

I pulled down the back of my T-shirt as I proceeded to walk out of his room. Though it fit me like a dress, I needed the security of knowing he couldn't see my butt.

"Nice ass," I heard him say. Whether or not it was said for me to hear, it produced a huge, giddy smile on my face.

In some twisted way, his words were hot, and I blushed like a school-girl all the way to the shower.

### Chapter 18

I needed a cold shower, but a hot one was even better. The beaded drops of water on my body helped relax the tension in my muscles. Though the headache had lessened, it still nagged, but food would take care of that.

I stood under the soothing water and watched the steam fog up the glass door. It put me into a trance and my mind wandered to thoughts of Max.

Why was my room so much bigger than his? For goodness sake, he was the boss's son. Hell, he practically owned the company. Then it occurred to me that the front desk lady had taken a bit longer than usual to check me in. And Max knew my room number before I did.

_Oh my God._ He did. He switched rooms with me so I could have the bigger one. I felt horrible, and guilty. He was just...and something warm bloomed in my heart.

I wondered why I was chosen to accompany Max on this trip. The team was just the two of us. That didn't seem right. Had Max arranged it that way? He knew how much I wanted to go from our lunch conversation.

I didn't know if I should be angry or happy about it, but I didn't want to ask him after he had taken care of me, and after the sweet things he had already done. I decided to do what Mrs. Ward had told me at our meeting—don't ask questions and just enjoy.

I opened the bottle of lavender-scented gel soap and poured it on the puffy bath sponge. I would miss the bathroom. It was twice the size of my bedroom. Gliding the soap down my neck, over my shoulders, down my arms, and over my breasts, I stopped. The aching desire returned.

Wanting the feeling to go away, I turned the cold knob, but I had pushed too far. _Ahhhh cold._ I jumped out of the shower.

I slipped into a white bathrobe and twisted my hair into a bath towel. Practically everything was white, except the warm caramel walls and the floors. After I washed my face and brushed my teeth, I felt refreshed and a whole lot better.

Max held the laptop as he stood in the living room area. His eyes locked on the screen as he headed toward me. Though I was completely covered I panicked. Neither one of us had closed the door. I hadn't given it much thought; after all, we were at opposite ends.

"Jenna," he called excitedly, peered up, and halted.

Max gave me a flirty sideways glance. His lips curled in a crooked, sly smile, but he didn't say a word. He didn't have to. I could only assume what went through his dirty mind because mine went there as well until I snapped out of it.

"Max." I tightened the robe.

"You okay there?" He approached closer and brushed my cheek with the palm of his hand. "Your cheeks are red."

Placing my hand where he'd just touched, I said, "I took a scorching-hot shower."

"Oh, let me show you something on my laptop." He sat on the edge of the bed and gestured for me to sit next to him. "Look at the front cover of our next issue. The lady in red. It's only a layout, and we need to have the model or an actress actually do a shoot, but I think it looks great. What do you think?"

It was the same red dress I had worn the night before and the same one I had told him should be on the front cover. He'd actually listened to my opinion. Not only that, he had taken my advice and put it into action.

"That's fantastic." Genuine excitement filled me. "It's absolutely gorgeous, though I think her hair should be slightly up with loose curls. Then she would be stunning."

"You mean the way you had it?" His eyes blazed into mine. "She wouldn't look half as beautiful as you did last night."

Max melted me with his sweetness. Speechless, I sat there dazed, staring back at him, until he looked away.

"Anyway, I'll show you the finished product," he added.

"Max."

"Jenna?" He gave me his full attention.

My hand had a mind of its own. It went straight to his forearm and it stayed there. "Before I forget, I would like to thank you for taking care of me. I've never been like that before, and it was terribly unprofessional of me." I didn't want to say the word buzzed or wasted. It sounded so adolescent. "Umm, it was my first time."

"First time, really?" His brows arched with amusement.

"Yes," I replied shyly.

"Are other things firsts with me?" He smirked.

"Shut up." I giggled lightly, pushing him away with my hand, but his hand caught mine and then he let go. "Anyway, I also want to thank you for allowing me to wear that dress. That was so sweet of you. And the necklace, I don't know what to say. Speaking of the dress and the necklace, I don't know where they are."

"I took the necklace off you, and before you get any funny thoughts, I didn't look. I helped you with the zipper on the dress, but that's all. After you got into bed, I took them to my room. They were picked up this morning when you were in the shower."

"Oh. How did you know my size? It was a perfect fit."

"They carry more than one size, and being in this industry long enough, I just know. All I need to do is examine your body, which I've been doing a lot lately." He winked.

Aaaak! My eyes went downward. I didn't know what to say.

"I'm hungry." Max brushed the tip of my nose with his finger. "You must be famished since you didn't eat dinner last night. Why don't you get ready?"

"How do you know I didn't eat dinner last night?" I fidgeted with the bathrobe belt. The thing was so long.

Max took it from my hands and placed it on the bed. "This robe is too long for you. Be careful. You may accidentally trip on it." He rose. "To answer your question, you told me lots of stuff last night, babe."

Did he just call me babe? Taken aback by his words and wondering what the hell I'd said to him, I stood up, too.

"Did I say a lot of crazy things?" I gulped nervously.

"What you said to me is a secret, so I can't share."

"What?" I glared playfully at him.

"We need to get ready. We can have brunch, then head out to the airport."

"Sure," I said, moving to my right while Max moved to his left. Bumping hard against each other, the momentum pushed me back. Max, being the gentleman he was, reached for me, but when he did, he stepped on my robe. Somehow the robe slipped down to my waist and Max fell on top of me on the bed.

His laptop thumped against the floor. Thank goodness it didn't sound like it had broken, but he didn't seem to care enough to check. His eyes pierced mine, heated and shocked, just as much as mine.

Topless, breasts exposed, my nipples flared through the thin layer of his T-shirt when I felt his chest, and the yearning between my legs exploded. My chest rose and fell rapidly and I struggled to control my urges and my breathing.

_Boss's_ _son_ , I kept telling myself, but it didn't work.

"I'm so sorry." Max chuckled. "You know, you don't have to get almost naked to get my attention. You already have that and a lot more." His muscles flexed, supporting his weight on his elbows. "I promise I didn't see anything. I mean, I'm sure there is much to see, but I didn't see what you thought I saw or might have seen." He sounded nervous. "Okay. So what I will do is—" He glanced around the room, looking for something.

"Max, can you just pick me up? Or maybe you can close your eyes." The truth was, my muscles felt so weak from his close proximity that I had lost control of my muscles.

"Well, if you're giving me a choice—" He didn't finish. He helped me up, keeping my body pressed against his. The towel on my head loosened, and my wet hair tickled down my back, producing a different kind of shiver, "—then I'll do it this way."

What was the matter with me? I could've pulled up the robe myself, but I couldn't move. I enjoyed his hands on my naked back, and the delicious, seductive heat that blistered through every inch of me.

Max hadn't seemed to want to move either. He stood there holding me when he could've let go. His feather-light touch smoothly glided down my spine, creating more dangerous pleasurable sensation.

"You drive me crazy. What am I going to do with you?" he whispered so low it was hardly audible. And a low groan from him sounded way too sexy to my ears.

Mas rubbed the robe against my skin as he fidgeted with it, most likely contemplating whether to drop it or pull it up. As much as I wanted him to let go of it, I was glad he didn't. My self-control deserted me completely.

Finally, Max pulled the robe over my shoulders, and he even fastened it for me. "Like I said"—he cleared his throat—"you may step on your robe and trip. We'd better get ready. I'll move first."

When he turned to reach for his computer, a cold empty space took his place. I didn't know how long I stood breathless and immobile...until Max brought me out of it.

"Jenna."

He was already out of my room so I followed his voice across from where I stood, still in my bedroom, him in his. Max was shirtless with a bath towel around his bottom half.

_Oh dear God._ I had imagined what his chest looked like underneath his sweater or T-shirt on many occasions, and he did not disappoint. With ripped muscles along the curves of his arms and his sizzling six-pack abs, he made my dreams come alive.

"Just to let you know, you agreed to go on a date with me," he said.

"What? I don't remember. Was it when I wasn't myself? 'Cause that doesn't count."

"Everything counts, babe."

My heart did a pleasant flip, and to be honest, I was scared of this feeling. "We'll talk about it later."

"There's nothing to discuss." Then I heard the water running from his side of the room. "What are you doing?"

"I'm going to take a shower."

"I thought you already took one."

"Babe, after what just happened, I need another one, and a lot colder this time."

### Chapter 19

Stretching and yawning, I woke up in my own bed. It was good to be back home and see the sun again, except I was back to reality, something both good and bad.

I arrived home late last night and Becky had already gone to bed. A part of me felt guilty for not replying to all of her texts, but she would understand.

Then there was Luke. Not that Max and I were an item, but I'd never felt with Luke what I had experienced with Max in New York.

The familiar footsteps told me Becky was awake. Jolting out of bed, I couldn't wait to see her.

I tiptoed to the kitchen and watched her fidgeting with the coffeemaker before I found the right time to make my move. Silently waiting...wait for it...now.

"Becky," I sang, draping my arms around her from behind.

She jerked back and panted. "Shit, Jenna. You nearly gave me a heart attack." She squeezed me tightly, then let go and placed her hand over her heart. "I knew you came home last night, but I thought you would still be sound asleep. Don't ever do that again."

"Sorry." I pouted.

"Don't pout. You are too darn cute. It actually makes me want to forgive you." She smiled. "So, how was New York? Was it everything you hoped it would be?" She placed the mug under the coffeemaker, and then opened the fridge to take out a container of eggs.

Leaning against the counter, I thought about how I would tell her everything that had happened in New York, and I mean _everything._

"The show was fantastic," I said.

Becky poured the oil in the small frying pan. "That's great." She looked up at me when I didn't continue. "I'm listening. I'm just starving. Want some eggs?"

"Sure."

"So go on." She cracked a few eggs. "Scrambled?"

"Sure. I got to sit in the VIP section, front row seat."

Becky stirred the eggs with the spatula. "You did? That's so cool. I wish I had been there with you."

I crossed my arms and braced for her reaction. "So. Max was there too."

"Are you serious?" She squealed.

"Becky, stir. You're going to burn the eggs." I took the spatula from her hand.

"What the hell, Jenna? Why didn't you text me? Oh my God. You're terrible."

With Becky freaking out, I had to intervene. Opening the cabinet, I took out two small plates. "I wanted to tell you when I got home so we could talk about it."

"Hell yeah, we're gonna talk about it. You're going to tell me every detail of every second, every thought, every everything," she rambled, still staring at me with her hands on her hips.

"You want to pour me a glass of juice while I take the plates to the table?" I asked. "And don't forget your coffee." Becky looked like she was somewhere else, so I reminded her of what she needed to do.

While we ate our eggs, I provided her with every detail and every emotion I experienced, including the fashion show, the dress, the hotel, Megan, and definitely the accidents. While I spoke her eyes sparkled, and she giggled like a schoolgirl. Most of all, she wanted me to thank her for cleaning out my underwear drawer.

Becky took a sip of her coffee. "What are you going to do?"

"I'm not sure." My fingers glided idly around the rim of the glass. "Max said I agreed to go on a date with him, but he hasn't actually asked. I mean, we don't have a date set yet. And I need to see Luke so I can be sure."

"I think you know the answer, but I understand. You need closure with Luke."

I swallowed the last gulp of my juice. "You're so sure of what I'm going to do?"

"Honey, your eyes are sparkling more than that diamond necklace you described. That speaks volumes."

I inhaled a deep breath. "I don't want to hurt Luke."

"Too bad." Becky's tone went up a notch. "He should've made you sing 'Hallelujah.' If you snooze you lose, and that's what's going to happen to you with Max if you pull that string too long. Anyway, don't forget we're doing ladies' night out this coming Saturday."

"I won't forget." I looked forward to seeing Nicole and Kate.

Becky was right. I always took her advice seriously since she had more experience with relationships than I did. After we cleared the table, we agreed to go shopping at the mall. She suggested I buy some new, attractive clothing. I had to agree once again, she was right.

My team welcomed me back with smiles. They asked me lots of questions about Fashion Week, but of course I left out many details.

Checking my emails and responding to customers took up most of my morning, but I couldn't help thinking about Max and wondering what he was doing. When I reached over to grab a pen, I saw I had a couple of text messages. Luke confirmed our dinner for Friday. And then the one from Max made me smile.

Good Morning. I _'m busy this morning, but I'll see you very soon._

After a quick bite to eat, I got right back to work. The office filled with the sounds of computer keys clicking away and phone conversations with customers.

My cell shook on the table.

Max: _What are you wearing? T-shirt or bathrobe?_

Me: _What?_

Max: _Come to my office._

Me: _No._

Max: _I guess I have to try harder. Please._

Me: _No._

I snorted, which I totally didn't mean to do, so I peered up to see if anyone had heard. Thankfully, they were too busy to notice.

My desk phone rang. The screen read Maxwell Knight. My heart did a backflip. When I had let it ring too long, my group all looked up at me.

"It's a wrong number," I explained.

The ringing stopped and I relaxed my shoulders. I looked at my computer screen and saw an email from Max. Should I click? With my hand over the mouse, I glided the arrow to open it.

Please come or I'll come and get you myself.

"Jenna," Lisa said, holding the phone receiver. "Mr. Knight asked me to tell you that you have a meeting in his office right now."

He called her too? This must be a real meeting and not a flirting meeting. _Crap, I need to get my butt down there and apologize to him._ How would I explain why I said no? I didn't even know what the meeting was for, and I certainly wasn't prepared to talk about anything work-related. And where the hell was his office?

After Lisa informed me which office was his—the last one on the right—I sped down the hall. The only sound I heard, besides the loud thumping of my heart in my ears, was the irritating clicking of my heels.

Brushing my hair with my fingers, straightening my black pencil skirt, and making sure my white blouse was buttoned, I knocked softly at the door that was slightly ajar.

"Come in. I've been expecting you."

_Grrr._ I hated how his voice alone could arouse emotions in me.

I walked inside. Max's eyes twinkled, apparently enjoying what he saw, and that beautiful grin lit up his face.

"I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to...I didn't know..." How was I going to explain? I stumbled over my unorganized thoughts.

Max sat behind a large mahogany desk. A few chairs were positioned in front of his desk, and a leather sofa was near a floor-to-ceiling bookcase filled with picture frames and books. To the right was a side table with a coffeemaker and amenities.

"Jenna, relax and take a seat."

It wasn't a long distance to the chair, but Max watching my every step made me nervous, and the darn clicking of my heels made it worse. He was so gorgeous in his suit and tie with his arms lazily on the armrest.

I sat stiffly and gave him a small smile. "Yes?"

With his arms folded on his desk, he leaned forward. "For someone so sweet, you can be extremely stubborn. After several texts, after an email, after calling you, then Lisa, you finally came. What are you going to make me do next time to get you to come to my office?" He chuckled.

I shrugged sheepishly. "I'm sorry."

"I didn't ask you to come so you can keep apologizing to me. Come take a look at what we have so far. I watched the shoot this morning. Your idea was fabulous. I'm going to give you credit for this."

My eyes grew ten times their size as I stared at him in disbelief. "Really? I don't know what to say."

"Don't just sit there, come take a look." He gestured with his hand. "It's on my computer."

I stood up with exhilaration and started to walk around his desk. Unexpectedly, I tripped over a small wastebasket I hadn't seen since my eyes were glued to the computer screen.

Max stood up to catch me, but the weight of my body caused us both to crash onto his chair. With his arms wrapped tightly around me, my skirt had slipped up, and I sat on his lap.

"I'm so sorry," I whimpered, my lips next to his ear.

"We gotta stop meeting like this, or I won't be able to control myself," he murmured as his chest rose and fell.

I pulled up a little, but I couldn't get myself to stand. Max wouldn't let go. Twisting my head to the left, I drew face to face with him. He was too beautiful. With perfect skin, a nice defined nose, warm-brown eyes that could melt you with one glance, and those kissable lips; I had to stop staring. My trance broke when Max spoke.

"I would like to take you out this Friday, but I'll be in New York. I'm leaving tomorrow. Waiting until next Friday is too long, so I would like to take you out on Sunday. We can sleep in late together, then have brunch if you like."

My mind told me to say no, but my heart told me to say yes, and so did my body. Becky was right. If I waited too long, I could lose him. And I didn't like the idea of Max being with anyone else.

Seeing Max with the blonde model had confirmed that, and those hot wet dreams that kept invading my mind and body—they said it all. Before I could change my mind, I said. "Brunch sounds great, but without the sleeping in late together."

"You said yes," he squealed happily, then arched his brows. "Get your mind out of the gutter, Ms. Mefferd. Sleeping together doesn't necessarily mean having sex, unless you can't handle yourself around me."

I smirked. "Are you challenging me, Mr. Knight? We can try one day." I couldn't believe those words had escaped, but with Max, it was so easy.

He wore a huge grin as he arched his brows in astonishment, most likely also in disbelief of what I'd just said. "I like challenges. You're on."

I swallowed my nerves. "Can I get up now?"

"You need my hand service. Let me help you," he said with a cool steady tone.

He caressed his hands down my spine. Then he slid them over the material that had gathered up.

I sucked in air hard.

Max had heard, judging by the satisfied grin on his face. His hands felt so sensual across my legs as he lifted me up, but I wasn't standing. His face was inches away from my chest. Worried someone may walk in, I turned my head to the door.

"Don't worry, Ms. Mefferd. It's locked. I made sure of it."

"I'm not worried." I struggled to get up, but as I gained my footing, Max twirled his chair and I ended up in his lap with my back toward him. I faced the computer, locked between the table and him.

How the hell had he done that so fast?

"Don't bite your finger, Ms. Mefferd." He guided my finger out of my mouth and kissed it. "Next time, it's going in my mouth."

My body stiffened from the quick kiss and the thought of my finger going into his mouth.

"Now that we can concentrate better, here is the front cover."

There it was, just as beautiful and stunning as I remembered it to be. The model did it justice, and so had Max with the fabulous layout.

### Chapter 20

My pulsed race. I didn't like hurting Luke, but it had to be done. I needed to break up with him in person and not over the phone.

Luke picked me up, but this time it was awkward, perhaps from knowing it would be our last dinner together. Instead of dressing up, I wore jeans and a sweater. Luke on the other hand had just gotten out from work, so he was clad in a suit and tie.

"How was your trip?" he asked, cutting his steak.

Thinking about Max, my face flushed. "It was great. I enjoyed it." I twirled my linguini with my fork.

"I figured you were busy with work since you didn't reply back much."

Guilt waved through me. "Sorry. I was swamped with work."

When my phone vibrated, I knew who it was. Max had called and texted me every day. We flirted a lot on the phone and by text, which made me miss him even more. Though we hadn't even kissed yet, the powerful raw emotion he stirred up inside me felt like we had, and a lot more.

Max: _What are you doing?_

Me: _Thinking of you._

Max: _Good. You know what I'm thinking of?_

Me: _What?_

Max: _You wearing my T-shirt or the robe._

Me: _Keep thinking that._

Max: _Not quite sure what that means. I have a surprise for you._

Me: _You don't need to give me another surprise. I love the roses you sent again._

Max: _There are a lot of fun things you can do with the rose petals on your naked body._

Me: _I'm sure there are. Gotta go._

I peered up to see Luke chewing on his steak, staring at me with an irritated expression.

"Sorry about that."

"That's okay," he said sharply.

I felt a sting of anger from him, so I took a sip of my water. While playing with my food, my heart pounded from nervousness as I built up the courage to tell Luke it was over.

"Max, I need—" _Oh God._

His eyes shot daggers at me and then looked away.

That was just great. I didn't need the evil eye. Flushing redder than his wine, I built up the courage again and continued as if nothing had happened.

"Luke. There is something we need to talk about."

"I need to talk to you too," he spoke with a full mouth. He didn't even let me continue, nor did he even look at me. "Listen, I don't think this is going to work. Don't get me wrong. I think you're attractive, but obviously we don't have much in common."

What?

I wanted to break up with him. He's breaking up with me? All that time I worried about his feelings, obviously he didn't care about mine.

_What the hell?_ Had I known he planned to break things off, I would have told him to meet me here instead of letting him pick me up, or just done it over the phone.

Why would he pick me up unless this wasn't planned? He didn't take me out to break up with me. He must have sensed it from my lack of attention to him and by my telling him we needed to talk, and especially since I had called him Max.

"We can still be friends," he continued, cutting his steak a bit rougher.

_Still be friends, my ass._ I didn't even want to see him after that. I wanted to stay cool about it, especially since he was my ride home.

I gave him a fake smile.

The rest of the dinner was awkward.

Silence filled the small space of the car, so I glanced out the window to pass the time. Only a few stars graced the sky, making it dim and sad looking, like me.

It wasn't the fact our relationship ended. It would be strange to run into him again after tonight, if that ever happened. And if we did, would we ignore one another? That was the saddest part of breaking up.

Sure, we could be friends, but come on—It was almost impossible to be friends afterwards. I'd seen it many times with my friends' relationships. And there I was, sitting in his car, thinking we'd never see each other again, and it upset me because in a way, he was my friend.

Luke wasn't like Max, but he hadn't treated me badly. He wasn't a perfect gentleman, but at least... _nah._ I didn't want to think of reasons to make him look better than he was.

Luke didn't say a word after he turned off the ignition. The lights behind us blinded me for a second from a flash of their high beams. Seriously, was that even necessary? We know you are parked behind us.

I stepped out of the car because Luke never opened my door. I swung around to see him in front of me.

"Jenna, look. What I said back at the restaurant, I didn't really mean it."

"What?" Did I hear him right? "Luke. Don't—"

"Please. I was upset. You didn't want to come with me to San Francisco, and you hardly returned my texts or my calls in New York. Then you called me Max. Who the hell is Max?"

"Luke, please. This is over, and you need to go."

"Just think about it, okay?" Luke's eyes pleaded. "I'm sorry I didn't call you enough or take you out enough. It's just that I wanted someone more driven, career orientated, someone bolder, with more self-confidence. Now I see that you are, but in your own special way. Just give me one more chance."

I couldn't look at him. It was too late. His words alone confirmed I didn't ever want to see him again. He didn't even see the real me, but Max did from the very beginning.

"I'll call you later. Maybe we both need to sleep on this." Without warning, Luke looped his arms around me so tightly I couldn't break away.

"Luke. I can't breathe."

"Sorry. Just think about it."

This was how I had imagined breaking up with Luke might play out so I focused my eyes on the tree across the street and contemplated my response.

"Jenna." Luke broke me out of my thoughts. "Maybe you'll change your mind after this."

Luke's lips crashed into mine. I was taken aback and it took me a few seconds to push him away, but his body weight on mine made it difficult. As I struggled to break away, he finally let go. Without a word he got into his car and took off.

I stood there flustered, wondering how that had happened. I hadn't even enjoyed it.

What happened next spun my world upside down. Max stood frozen with his body halfway out of the car, his eyes searing with hurt and anger.

I opened my mouth to speak, but nothing came out. To make it worse, my legs were planted to the ground and I couldn't run to him. I stood there wondering how much he'd seen.

"Max? I thought you were in New York," I managed to mutter and started toward him.

" _Stop._ Don't take another step. You sure were thinking of me, weren't you?"

Before I had a chance to explain, he got in the car and sped away.

My heart shattered to the cement. He might as well have run over it. I could fix this I thought as tears pooled in my eyes. But when I saw a dozen red roses on the ground where he'd thrown them, I welcomed the tears.

### Chapter 21

"Are you going to lie in bed all day?" Becky asked. "He'll come around. After you explain, he'll know what a fool he's been. Arrogant bastard."

I wiped my tears with a Kleenex. "I should have tried harder to push Luke away. I should have bit him, or kneed him. It happened so fast."

"I know. It's not your fault. Men are so stupid. Sure, just run away."

"The funny thing is, Max and I haven't even kissed. We haven't even gone on a date, but I feel such a strong connection to him, it's kind of frightening. I mean, look at me. I'm a mess as if we broke up after a long relationship." I let out a short laugh and blew my nose.

Becky walked to the door and leaned against the frame. "Nicole and Kate are coming soon. I'm going to make chicken. You lie here and mope all you like, but when they come—hell, whatever. Let's have a moping fest. I have some moping to do myself."

"Thanks, Becky. Next time I'll cook. I don't know what I would do without you. You know that, don't you?"

Becky dashed and wrapped her arms around me. "I know. And even though you think I'm here more for you than you are for me, you're totally wrong. You were there for me in college way more than I could ever make up for. You took care of me when I was wasted, you helped me through bad breakups. And don't forget how you helped me with classes I almost failed, okay? I'm just glad we have wonderful friends we can count on. You know what I mean?"

Still holding on to Becky, I nodded. I understood exactly what she meant.

"Nicole, Kate." I hugged them as soon as they entered.

"Missed you too," Nicole said.

Kate, the more affectionate one, kissed me on the cheek and handed me a bottle of wine. "So, tell us all about New York."

After packing our plates with food, the three of us grabbed a glass of wine, and water for Kate, who was still breastfeeding. We sat at the table in our usual spots. With all eyes on me, I told them everything that had happened in and out of New York.

"Sounds like Max was devastated to see you with Luke." Nicole stuck a fork into the chicken. "I don't blame him, though. If I had been there when it happened, I would've thought the same thing. I'm not siding with him, but he's been after you for some time, and when he finally gets you, well, you know what I mean. It's sort of like giving your heart away, expecting to have it handled with care, but instead, it gets stepped on, flattened on the ground, squashed, mutilated, ripped apart—"

"Okay. I think she gets the point," Becky intervened, seeing the crushed look on my face. "You're making it worse, Nicole."

"Sorry. I was thinking about the time it happened to me. I'm so sorry," Nicole apologized and placed her hand over mine.

"After you have a chance to talk, he'll come around," Kate mumbled with a mouthful of fruit salad.

"That's what I keep telling her, but Max doesn't answer her texts or phone calls. That's the problem," Becky explained, pouring a second round of wine in her glass and doing the same for Nicole.

"What did you say in the text?" Kate asked.

I held onto my wine glass and stared at the space where the vase of roses had been. I recalled the red roses Max had tossed on the street. In my shock, I hadn't had the energy to pick them up.

I wondered if I should go back out and look for them, but I couldn't get my legs to move. They were probably gone by now anyway. Knowing Max, he would have gotten the expensive kind, like the last two times he'd sent them to me. Surely someone would have picked them up. Those flowers weren't meant for me, not anymore.

"Jenna." Kate brought me back to our conversation.

"I texted that we need to talk and it wasn't what it looked like. I can't text everything I need to tell him."

"True." Becky poured more wine into my glass.

I hadn't realized I had emptied it, half of it anyway. I began feeling like I had been out in the sun way too long.

"I know you can't drink, but you're home, and we're here. Drown your sorrows, hun. We'll take care of you," Becky said.

I gave her a thankful smile. "After this drink, I won't be able to think or feel." That was fine by me. I didn't want to feel anything.

"Damn, Jenna. I've seen you turn red before, but you look like a lobster," Nicole snorted. "I see why Max was so worried about you. I'm worried for you right now. Are you okay?"

"Don't worry," I sighed, my heart pounding faster. Not only that, my head started to throb, my body burned, and every movement seemed slowed. Pausing for a second, trying to process my thoughts, I changed the subject. "Soooo, Kate. Are you stillll...breastfeeding?"

Kate held an amused smile. "Someone is wasted." She laughed, touching my cheeks. Her hand felt so cool on my face. Enjoying the sensation, I closed my eyes and opened them when she spoke again, "I'm weaning her off, so I still can't drink but once I'm done, no need to ask twice, girlfriend." She accentuated the word "girlfriend" with a funny twang.

With the palm of my hand on my cheek and my elbow on the table to support my head, I shifted my eyes to Nicole. The whole dinner conversation had been about me, and I needed to switch it around. Plus, I suspected my friends had things to share.

"How...about you, Nicole?" I wasn't sure what I had asked. Every word seemed like a slow echo in my ears.

Her whole face beamed while her body shuddered slightly. "I can't hide it any longer." She stood up, pulled something out of her pocket, and sat back down. Doing something with her left hand underneath the table, she smiled mischievously.

"Hurry up." Kate shook her hands.

I yawned and put my head down on the comfort of my crossed arms on the table.

"Be patient. I hope this is the last one I'll ever have," Nicole said excitedly. "I dare you not to get excited."

"Ahhh!" I heard the screams from all three of my friends.

I peered up. Nicole had raised her hand and something around her finger sparkled.

"Nicole?" I stood up and pulled her finger closer to me. It took a great amount of effort to peel my eyes open. From what I could tell, it was bigger than a karat, a round, gorgeous ring. "You're enraged?" I shook my head. "Ennngaged?"

Nicole squealed, "Yes, I'm engaged."

I embraced her with all of me. "I sooo hapeee for me—you," I slurred, running my hand down my face, trying to focus.

"When did this happen? Didn't you guys break up?" Becky asked, looking confused.

"Yes, but we did a lot of talking this past week. We spilled our guts and got everything out in the open. In the end, he said he couldn't live without me. We got back together, which I didn't tell you about. And then he proposed last night."

"We want details," Kate said with an impatient tone.

"Hold on, impatient one." Nicole snorted. "I need to ask you guys a question." Draping her hand over my shoulder, she gave each of us a heartfelt smile while water pooled in her eyes. "When I need a helping hand or when I'm down and I need someone to cheer me up, you're always there for me. I'm so blessed to have you guys in my life. It wouldn't be the same without you. Will you all be my bridesmaids?"

My friends sniffled and lots of arms wrapped around Nicole and me.

Bliss filled my heart. Though I was hot as hell from the alcohol, I welcomed this special warmth. How I loved my friends.

### Chapter 22

Sunday was the slowest day of my life. I looked at my phone constantly, hoping Max would call or text back, but he didn't.

Luke called me several times, but I ignored him. A part of me blamed him for what had happened, but I didn't want to think of him, so I brushed the thought of him aside.

Every time I thought about that awful unwanted kiss with Luke _,_ I saw Max's expression and it killed me.

Becky left a note, letting me know she would be back before dinner. She had gone out to run some errands since she would be traveling to San Francisco for a book convention.

I sat on the sofa with the cell phone on my lap, just staring. I looked pathetic. Tomorrow was Monday and I needed to be at work; I had to snap out of this funk.

I called my mom to hear a comforting voice.

"Jenna?"

"Hi, Mom." I tried to sound cheerful, but my lips quivered. I had to hold it together or I'd start sobbing on the phone. Mom would worry and then I would have to talk about my love life, which I wasn't comfortable doing.

"How are you, sweetie? It's good to hear your voice."

I took a deep breath. "It's good to hear your voice too." I've been better, I wanted to tell her but that would sound suspicious, so I lied. "I'm great, just busy with my new job. How's Dad and anything new?"

"Just the same old thing. Will you have a chance to visit soon?"

"Christmas for sure, Mom. I'll be there."

"Fantastic. I'll tell Dad. I can't wait."

"Me too." I pondered whether to ask her this question, but I needed to know. "Hey, Mom?" My voice sounded small and child-like.

"What is it, hun? Is everything okay?"

"Everything is fine. I was just wondering, did you love Dad when you first met him? I mean, how did you know he was the one?"

"I can't explain it. I just knew. I knew I couldn't live without him. So when the time comes, make sure to pick the one you can't live without. The one who lifts you up and never lets you touch the ground. The one who loves you so much, he'll put you first above anything else. The one who will love you on the sunny days, but love you most through the heavy, thunderous storms. Let him pamper you, shelter you, and romance you until he's given his all. And in return, love hard and give back everything he's given you. You deserve all the happiness, Jenna. Don't settle for anything less."

"Okay." I nodded, though she couldn't see me. As a tear escaped down my cheek, I wiped it away. Her words were enduring, and I took them to heart, glad that I'd asked her. It made me reevaluate the men in my life.

"Before I forget, Dad and I will be on a cruise for the first two weeks of December. We're doing a fourteen-day European cruise."

"That's great. That's in three weeks. It sounds fun," I said cheerfully.

"I hope we don't get seasick."

"You'll be fine, Mom. I know you'll have a great time. I'll talk to you again before the trip. Well, I better go. I'll call you soon."

"Okay, sweetie. I'll talk to you soon."

"And, Mom, thank you." I needed to hear her words of comfort, though she had no idea what was going on.

"Anytime. That's what mothers are for."

After the phone conversation, I felt somewhat better, so I did my laundry, cleaned the house, and took care of bills. Somehow I had to find strength because one way or another, I had to go to work in the morning, and I would run into Max, unless he found a way to avoid me.

I had dragged myself out of bed but had no idea how I got to work. Everything about the place seemed too big and too cold. I tried to act like nothing was wrong, smiling as often as I could. This only confirmed I had been right all along: never get into relationships with coworkers, especially the boss's son.

I checked my emails—it seemed like every minute—but no messages, or texts, or phone calls from Max. Curiosity got the best of me so I tiptoed down the hall to his office. It seemed obsessive of me, but I needed to at least explain to him what had happened.

The thought of him hating me filled my stomach with acid. Even if he didn't want to work things out, I would be okay with it as long as he knew the truth.

I walked up to his admin assistant. "Hi. I was wondering if Mr. Knight is in his office?"

"Ms. Mefferd, he's not in today."

I should've stopped asking questions, but I couldn't help it. I didn't know if I felt disappointed or relieved I didn't have to face him. But the dagger in my heart cut deeper.

"Do you know if he'll be in today or tomorrow?"

"I'm not sure. He's usually in the office by now, but he has several meetings out of the office this morning. Would you like me to leave a message for you?"

"No," I said quickly. Then I thought, _why not?_ "I mean yes. Can you please tell him I need to talk to him and it's urgent?"

"Sure. I can do that for you."

"Thanks." I turned on my heels to walk away. My body felt heavy and the clicking of my heels got louder as I headed back to my office.

The thick, heavy clouds loomed outside my office window with bellies so full they were ready to burst. As more dark clouds gathered, it got darker and colder. Then lightning flashed deadly, yet beautifully across the sky, followed by a loud explosion of angry thunder that shook the windows.

Rain pounded the ground, washing away the dirt, washing away the smog. I wished it could wash away my pain.

After work, I went straight home. Becky had left for San Francisco that morning, so I was home alone. Luke had called me every day— _now_ he called me every day—but I never picked up.

As for Max, he never replied. I laughed out loud at the irony. The three of us were somehow connected and doing similar things. I avoided Luke and Max avoided me. Luke wanted to get in touch with me, and I wanted to do the same with Max.

After eating the previous night's leftovers, I took a shower and went to bed early. I didn't know if the thoughts of Max wore me down or if I was coming down with something, but my body felt heavy and the blankets couldn't keep me warm.

The next day I went to work, feeling like a zombie. After some persuasion from Lisa, begging me to go home, I did. It seemed I had caught some kind of bug.

I snuggled into the comfort of my bed as I thought of Max and went to sleep without dinner.

My whole body burned as I shivered and sweat damped my forehead. I kicked off the blankets and then reached for them when I got cold again. I wished my body would make up its mind. Tossing and turning, I had a restless, uncomfortable night.

In the morning I didn't feel any better so I called in sick. Though I wasn't hungry, I needed something in my stomach. My feet dragged across the floor like they weighed a ton as I headed to the kitchen. After drinking a glass of water, I tried eating a toast but I couldn't, so I took some Advil instead.

I should've felt better, but I didn't. All I wanted to do was close my eyes and sleep because even Max wasn't on my mind.

My throat burned and I felt like a bus had hit me. Forget Luke, forget Max...forget...need sleep. As I started to drift off, my heart hammered against my ribs so fast I thought it would burst right through.

Something besides my head pounded as I drifted in and out of sleep. It sounded like it came from the kitchen, but I didn't care. I didn't have the energy or the strength to get up and see where the sound had come from, or maybe my current condition made me delusional.

Something cool touched me. I welcomed it on my cheek. I let out a soft moan and shifted my head from side to side.

"Jenna." A male's voice echoed in my ear. "Are you okay? Shit. She's burning up."

This must be a dream. I missed Max so much I was dreaming about him, but I didn't mind. Hearing his voice somehow soothed me. At least it gave me a temporary escape.

The cold hands left my face.

"Nooo," I moaned.

Max faded. Come back.

"Should we call an ambulance?" another voice said.

I didn't want to hear him. Who was he?

"She'll be fine. I had the same thing. I'll take care of her. Thank you for letting me in," Max replied.

Max wanted to take care of me. This was too good to be true; it had to be a dream. The voices faded in and out.

"I'm not supposed to be doing this, but since her mailbox was full, and since she didn't pick up the phone, I needed to find out too. Did you say she works for you and hasn't returned your phone calls either? It's something to be alarmed about. I'm glad I could help. She looks sick as a dog," the other voice said.

"Here's my business card," Max said.

"Wow, are you _the_ Mr. Knight from Knight Magazine?"

"Yes, but my father is the founder."

"Why didn't you tell me in the first place? I'd better go now. I'm sure she's in good hands."

Then I heard the sound of retreating footsteps and cold hands on my face again. And my dream ended.

### Chapter 23

I open my eyes to the warmth of the sun. Though my muscles ached, I was feeling much better. I lay there trying to recall the dream I'd had about Max and some stranger, but it all seemed foggy.

The painful knot in my heart that had been temporarily pushed aside came back full force. And it dawned on me I had no idea what day it was. How long had I slept?

I only had to reach over to my nightstand to get my cell, but I needed to use the bathroom. Getting out of bed wasn't as bad as I expected, but my legs were unsteady.

I had only taken a few steps when a high-pitched scream ripped through the apartment. Becky had come home. Wondering why she yelled, I ran out of my room.

Becky stood by the front door. Her mouth gaped open, like she had seen a ghost. I followed her line of vision and... _oh my God._ Max stood there, holding up both of his hands in surrender.

Max wore jeans and a black sweater, so I assumed it was the weekend. But Becky was due back on Thursday, so it had to be Thursday.

My heart skipped a beat. Even in casual clothing he looked so good.. He seemed a bit younger and less serious. But his five o'clock shadow indicated he hadn't shaved in days, and the bag under his showed he hadn't sleep well.

What was Max doing there? I couldn't recall any of it. I wondered when and how he had gotten in.

They both stood there in astonishment until I broke their stare.

I cleared my throat. "Max. What are you doing here?" My voice was hoarse, but I said it as gently as I could.

Hurt and anger still shadowed his eyes. I wasn't sure if he wanted to talk to me. God, I needed to talk to him, and fast. Seeing him like this made me ache even more.

Max's gaze lowered to my T-shirt. I wore only his white T-shirt with undies underneath. I realized he could see my nipples, so I crossed my arms. Since he hadn't asked for his shirt back, I'd kept it. Needing to stay positive things would work out I'd worn it to bed. I only hoped he didn't think it belonged to Luke.

He continued to stare and didn't answer, but Becky held a giant smile. She walked toward him and extended her hand.

"Hello, Max. I'm so sorry. I'm Jenna's roommate, Becky. I thought you were...I'm so sorry."

He snapped out of his daze, shook her hand, and then let go. "Becky, it's nice to meet you. It's okay. I would've screamed too if I saw a stranger in my apartment, but not like a woman of course." His tone was sweet and charming as usual.

Becky let out a soft laugh and things got awkward afterward. Max wouldn't look at me. He didn't even answer my question.

"Well." His eyes went straight to the front door. "Now that you're here and she's in good hands, I'll be on my way home. It looks like you just got back from somewhere. A business trip, perhaps?"

"Yes. I just got back from San Francisco."

"You're not leaving again, are you?"

"No, not for another month."

Max nodded. "Your landlord let me in. Jenna had called in sick for two days and her assistant, Lisa, needed to ask her an important question, but she never returned the phone call. I—we were worried. Several of us who just returned from the New York trip called in sick too, including myself. I guess we caught the same nasty bug."

I had been knocked out for two days? Max had been sick too, but he came to take care of me?

Max added, "She didn't have her family nearby. It's our policy to take care of our employees. Anyway, I should go."

"Thanks for taking care of her," Becky said.

"Of course. There's a bottle of antibiotics on the countertop that the doctor left for her. I had my doctor friend come check on her. I hope that was okay?"

Becky's eyes grew wide and she nodded with admiration. "Sure, of course. Thank you."

"I had to crush the pills so she could sip them, but I think she's okay to swallow pills now. Please make sure she finishes the remaining three. Since the dosage is high, she needs to make sure she takes them on a full stomach."

Why was he talking to Becky as if I wasn't there? Did he hate me that much? He'd crushed my pills?

I hated myself for hurting him. I just needed a chance to explain.

Max still wouldn't look at me. After Becky thanked him again, he headed straight for the door. My heart pounded in my chest from the rejection. He called me stubborn, but he was worse. As I debated what to do Becky gave me a "what the hell are you still standing there for" look.

"Max," I called but it came out too soft. Maybe it hurt too much to say it.

He finally turned to me when he heard my footstep. Just as I reached him, my weak legs gave out. I almost stumbled to the floor, but Max caught my fall with one arm as if holding me with two arms would be terrible.

"Why are you running in your condition?" he scolded.

I didn't answer. He held me tightly against the side of his chest, and the electric tingling came alive. Staring at his chest, I couldn't look up, especially when his hand wrung my T-shirt tightly.

Either he was mad or he was fighting something. I wished I knew which.

"Max, please. I need to talk to you. It's not what you think."

My eyes became teary. No, I won't cry in front of him. It will make me seem pathetic. This wasn't working. When he didn't answer me, I slowly craned my neck, passing his sexy Adam's apple and the stubble along his jaw that I wanted to touch so badly.

His eyes gazed into mine without even blinking.

"Please. I tried to call and text you, but you wouldn't answer." It sounded like I was begging, but at that point I didn't care. He would leave with that look in his eyes, and I couldn't handle it.

"I know," he whispered. Releasing a deep sigh, his eyelashes lower.

Was that all he had to say after he had wanted to be with me? That dagger twisted in my heart again. One tear found its way down my cheek.

He closed his eyes and inhaled a deep breath.

"You can hate me all you want, but let me explain. At least give me that." My lips quivered.

He flashed his eyes open as if my words had surprised him. With his free hand, he wiped my tears. "Don't cry. You know I can't stand to see you cry."

_Don't let me and do something about it,_ I wanted to yell at him.

"Not here. Not now. I don't want to talk to you here with your roommate, and I don't want to talk to you in a restaurant. I'll text you my address. I'll let you know what time. Don't go to work tomorrow. I've already called in sick for you. You should be a lot better by Sunday. We'll talk then."

I nodded as he shifted to steady me.

"You okay to stand?" His eyes fell to my breasts.

If I covered them with my arms, he would know I caught him looking— _awkward_. I couldn't help the thought of his hands on them. Trying to be as subtle as possible, I ran my hand through my hair and crossed my arms.

Max blinked. "I better go. Don't forget to take your medicine and eat something before you do."

I reached over and opened the door. "Max. Thank you for being here. I'll pay for the doctor's bill and the medicine, and whatever that—"

He didn't let me finish. "See you on Sunday," he said wearily, then walked out the door.

Trying not to make it obvious, I stuck out my head just enough to see him walk down the hallway and enter the elevator.

### Chapter 24

Sunday couldn't come fast enough. Max had been at my apartment on Thursday so I had to wait three days to tell him my side of the story. As for the nasty bug, I felt a whole lot better, thanks to Max.

I had been blown away by his care for me. Though he'd mentioned it was his company's policy, there was no such thing. He had been worried about me. This gave me hope that things could work out.

I didn't know Lisa tried to reach me, but then again, I couldn't recall the phone ringing and my cell had died.

Becky had a lunch date. She suggested we exchange stories that night, and she would give me more details about the possible new man in her life. I couldn't wait to hear all about him.

As I stared for God-knows-how-long at my closet full of clothes, I saw nothing worth wearing. How was that possible? Becky and I had gone shopping recently. Running out of time, I yanked on a pair of jeans and a red button-up sweater.

After slipping on my coat and a pair of boots, I hurried out. Max didn't live far from work. I had expected to end up at a house, but instead I found myself standing in front of a tall building. He lived in the penthouse.

My heart thundered the ride up the elevator. Standing in front of Max's door, I inhaled deeply and rang the doorbell. After a long few seconds, the door cracked open.

Anxiety flooded through me, and I felt as if I would pass out. Most of the anxiety went away when I saw his gorgeous smile. At least it appeared genuine.

"Hi, Jenna. You look—" He paused. "You look better. Come in."

Max wore cotton shorts and a plain white T-shirt, just like the one I'd kept, and he was barefoot. He still hadn't shaved, which made him even sexier.

I had to stop staring. After Max took my coat, I took in the breathtaking view from his window which took up the entire back wall.

The city lights dazzled against the black sky. A multitude of colors shone like Christmas lights, holding their vibrant hues. As my boots clicked on the dark wood floor, I followed him to the living room.

The furnishings were simple but elegant. His place was spacious and had an open floor plan. You could even see the kitchen from the living room.

"Sit anywhere you like." He gestured with his hand.

Already standing next to the sofa, I plopped myself down onto the expensive leather cushion.

"Would you like anything to drink?" He poured himself some liquor into a wine glass. "Some water or juice perhaps?"

He had only given me two options since he already knew my lack of alcohol tolerance. "No, thank you," I replied.

I didn't want to be there longer than I needed to be. The longer I stayed, I might not want to leave.

Max cleared his throat after taking a sip of his drink. "What did you need to talk to me about? You made it clear before that we shouldn't date, and you made it even clearer by being with him that night. From the way you've been acting, I have to say you were right."

His words pierced my heart with a sharp sting. Looking at my fingernails that suddenly got interesting, I nodded.

Be brave and get this over with.

This was more difficult than I'd expected. It would have been easier to express myself directly after it happened. But to reveal everything I felt a week later, especially after having been so sick and hearing him say we shouldn't be dating, would take all my nerves.

He made it clear, I had lost my chance.

Placing my purse down next to me, I rubbed my palms on my jeans and focused on my hands. It was easier to look at them than into his eyes.

"I needed to tell you that night...you didn't see what you thought you saw." I paused. "I called Luke so I could end things with him in person. We went out to dinner so I could tell him, then he brought me back home. I told him good-bye and that's—that's when he kissed me. I was completely shocked and not expecting it at all. I tried to push him away, but he was too strong."

Max's body tensed and his hands balled up tightly. "Did he hurt you?"

"No, yes, I mean, he hurt me in the sense that I hadn't given him permission, and he wouldn't let go. I didn't have a choice. He held on so tight. I tried hard to push him away but..."

Max's shoulders relaxed and something had changed in the way he looked at me. I wasn't sure if it was for better or worse. Standing up, he headed for the window.

"If what you are telling me is true, then I was a fool not to let you explain. But you have to understand, I'd wanted to take you out since the first time I saw you at the restaurant. I remember seeing you there with Becky. After all the times you said no and all the reasons you gave for why we couldn't go out, you'd finally said yes and made me the happiest man.

"I was supposed to be in New York that weekend, but now I wish I hadn't cancelled just to surprise you. I didn't want to wait another week to see you. I rescheduled for this week, which I rescheduled again because I found out you were sick. When you didn't call Lisa back, she let me know. I was concerned about you. I didn't mean to step over the line, but I needed to know you were okay, especially when you weren't answering your phone. I didn't want to leave you a text message. I needed to see for myself.

"Going back to that night, the only thing I saw was that—Puke..." He had the most disgusted look on his face.

I wanted to laugh so hard, but I didn't want to correct him. He knew Luke's name and calling him "Puke" was hilarious and kind of cute.

Max continued, "...kissing you like there was no tomorrow, and the fact I told you I would be out of town." He stopped pacing and surprisingly sat on the floor in front of me. Taking my hand, he gently caressed the back of it, seemingly apologizing through his gesture. "I'm so sorry. I didn't let you explain, and I didn't mean to go all possessive on you like that. It's just I've never felt like this with anyone before."

When Max's hand cupped my cheek, I let out a soft sigh, trying so hard not to lean into his palm.

"I was a wreck," he added, placing his hand back to mine. "We haven't even gone out, and yet you make me feel this way. I don't understand. You have this hold on me that's exciting and terrifying at the same time. But if I had held on to my fears, then I would never have taken the leap, but I did. I wanted to dive right into your heart and stay there permanently. I fell for you the first time I looked into your eyes. That's all it took. I'd found the one I've been waiting for all my life."

I wanted to say I felt the same way, but the words wouldn't come out. My lips were sealed shut. For the last week I'd lived through hell because of him, and like he said, we hadn't even dated.

Was this wrong? I only went there to explain so he wouldn't hate me, but his confession confused me. After that night, I considered looking for another job.

When my free hand went straight to my mouth, Max pulled it away. "Don't do that, Jenna. You have no idea what that does to me." Then Max pushed his way between my legs, reaching closer... _oh please don't._

His hands cupped my face. "I'm sorry for being a jerk. Let's start over again. Hello, I'm Max, and I really want to get to know you." His brows twitched playfully, looking so adorable.

My eyes grew wide, trying to hide my smile, but it curled up enough for Max to see it. I hadn't expected that at all. He already "had me at hello," but I had to talk some sense for the both of us. We weren't thinking clearly.

"Max, after what we've both been through, I think we ummm"—he surmised what I would say so he placed his hands to his side and furrowed his brow—"like you said before, we work together, and if things don't work out, then it would be difficult. As you indicated, it wouldn't be good for—"

"It's too late, Jenna." He placed his hands on my arms. "I know you feel something. I can see it in your eyes, and by the way you respond when I'm close to you. And because I know this, there is nothing I won't do to convince you now. I'm not letting you slip through my fingers again."

Somehow I stood. How did he get me to stand without me even knowing? Darn his eyes and how he made me get lost in them.

"Look what we've been through, and we haven't even gone out." I pointed out.

"I don't know, Jenna. I told you what I've gone through, how I feel." His eyes widened and those lips of his curled up wickedly. "So tell me, did you feel the same way as me when I didn't text or call back? Did you miss me as much as I missed you?"

"I-I..."

He stood so close. I couldn't speak. I couldn't breathe. It had played out differently in my mind. He wasn't supposed to ask me about my feelings.

"Jenna, tell me. Did you miss me?"

Since he wouldn't back down until I gave him an answer, I lied.

"No," I said sternly and ran to the front door.

The word stung me more than it might have him, and my eyes pooled with tears. I hated that I had so many emotions with him. No, I take it back, I liked it. I liked all the emotions I experienced with him, the ones I'd never felt with anyone else.

The emotions made me come alive. They made me want to be naked in bed with him, to touch him, to feel him inside me. I needed to stop thinking.

"You're lying." Max stood behind me. "You're just afraid I might give you something great. You're afraid to fall in love with me."

"I'm not afraid to love you," I snapped, and I couldn't believe the words that came next. "I'm more afraid of losing you."

Max pulled me in so tightly his hard muscles flexed against me. His piercing eyes locked on mine with so much conviction it terrified me.

"You haven't given us a chance to even know what losing means. You think you're the only one afraid here? Does life just revolve around Jenna Mefferd? My heart isn't made of stone. I feel pain, anger, and I feel every emotion you do. You don't think I'm afraid of losing you? Yes, someone like me, who's got it all, is afraid of losing what I want the most. I've wanted you since the day you captured my heart. You looked at me with the same look I'm giving you right now, the look of want and need and searching for something great. Yes, you are something great. Can you see what I want you to see in my eyes? My body aches when you're not around. I have your image in my mind, and I see so much in our future, but we can't get there if you're too afraid. I'm fighting for you. I'm fighting for us. So what are you waiting for?"

From his beautiful words and his body touching mine, I lost my breath. The erotic heat blistered through my body. I wanted him. I wanted us. All my life I'd played it safe—no risk and no adventures.

Changing jobs had been the first step to something better and having Max in my life could be the beginning of something great.

At that moment, I realized I hadn't lived to my potential. Life was about taking risks and to learn and grow from those risks. What good was it if I was too afraid to try?

I would never know the meaning of happiness or experience true love. If I got hurt in the process, so be it. There was no holding back at this point.

As my eyes found his again, I gave him the permission he needed. "I don't want to wait anymore, Max."

### Chapter 25

My back hit the wall when Max claimed me with his lips, those lips I'd been wanting to taste for so long—and he did not disappoint.

As the urge between my legs awakened, his tongue danced with mine, taking me to another level. I gripped his hair, letting him know I wanted more than just a kiss. He let me know too when he pressed against me.

His hardness drove me wild as his hand slid down my back and cupped my ass.

"Mine," he growled as he continued to kiss me. "I can't get enough of you."

His possessive words had me spinning out of control.

My hands trailed down the curve of his firm chest and stopped at his waistband.

Max groaned and pinned my arms against the wall above my head. With a naughty grin, he leaned in and tenderly kissed my neck, slowing things down.

Making his way downward, he released my hands and put his hands on my waist. When his tongue played with the swell of my breast, I moaned. I arched my back, and the ache between my legs intensified a hundredfold.

"Do you want more, Jenna? Tell me you want more or I'll stop."

"More," I panted.

His tongue slipped inside my sweater. When he dug in deeper, his stubble brushed my nipple. I quivered from the ache and how it made me feel so good at the same time.

When coolness wafted over my skin, I stiffened. Max was unbuttoning my sweater with his teeth and was already halfway down.

"My lady in red...you...are...beautiful," he said, asking my permission to continue with his eyes.

I began unbuttoning the remaining three buttons. After he helped me take off my sweater, he unhooked my bra. Taking in my breasts with his eyes, he pulled off his T-shirt and crushed my lips into his.

With one of his hands caressing my breast, his tongue soothed the other. Flicking, nipping, and then sucking harder, sent me over the edge. I could not control the burning, wanting sensation anymore.

I ran my hands down his chest and I accidentally brushed his enlarged hardness. With a deep groan, he sucked my nipples harder, and then looked up at me.

"Don't do that, Jenna. You'll have me begging. I didn't plan this. We can stop. I wanted to take you out. You're not a one-night stand. You're more than that. I didn't mean to do this. I want something great with you. We don't have to—"

I wanted Max. No more fighting my feelings for him.

"I know, Max," I said, panting and taking him in with a mad passionate kiss as my hand went straight down to his hardness.

He shuddered and groaned, and I was thrilled I could make this beautiful man so completely weak.

"Just so you know"—I said between kisses—"I don't do this, ever, not until I at least—"

"How many?" he asked, kissing me back. His hand gripped my legs and pulled me up. My legs wrapped around his waist as he headed toward the stairs.

"Just one."

"Just one?" Burying my face into the space between his neck and shoulder as he climbed higher, he asked another, "When was the last time?"

Too embarrassed to tell him I didn't have a lot of experience, I murmured into his shoulder, "Three years ago."

"Shit. It's been three years?" He sounded completely surprised.

I nodded.

"Then it's like I'm your first." He gave me that sly grin. "Let me make those three years worth the wait. I'm going to brand every inch of your body with my hands, my lips, and tongue, so your body will know only me. You'll be begging me to stop because I'm going to give you pleasure like you've never known before."

That shot another tingle right to my core, lighting fireworks to every fiber of my being.

Kicking the door with his foot, he carried me into his bedroom. Not only was it spacious with a breathtaking view of the city, it was fit for a king.

Max had the biggest bed I had ever seen. I wondered how many women he had brought there but pushed the thought aside.

Who cared?

For tonight he was mine and mine alone. He wanted me as much as I wanted him.

He ripped the blue satin bedspread back and lowered me to the mattress. Cupping my face, he kissed me softly, then headed toward my neck.

"I'm going to make your first in three years the most memorable," he growled. "I'm going to make you come all night long."

It took me a second to register what he had said. He had already lowered me down to the bed, taking in my breast. I barely held it together.

Max unzipped my boots, then my pants, and managed to take both off with one single swoop, except my G-string.

"I like red on you," he said and took off his shorts.

Knowing what came next made me nervous—a whole lotta nervous.

After all had been stripped down, there it was—long, hard, and as beautiful as him, and he had no problem showing it.

Hovering over me, he used his elbow to anchor his weight and laced his hand through my hair. "So beautiful. Are you ready?"

Withering underneath him, I nodded.

Max took his time kissing one spot at a time, starting from my neck until his lips found my undies. He used his teeth to move them aside and flicked my clitoris with his tongue.

"Max," I exploded. I had died and had gone to sex heaven.

The ache became stronger and I needed a release. Squirming with ecstasy, I pulled my legs up. I couldn't take it anymore.

He enjoyed watching me come undone, and I loved how he was making me feel. I had imagined and dreamt how it would be with him, but never in my wildest dreams did I envision this.

"Do you want me?" Max asked, teasing me with his erection grazing the entrance to my vagina.

"Yes," I breathed.

"We don't have to. We can just hold each other." He placed his hand where his dick was. "You're so wet, baby."

"Max, I want you inside me," I begged, breathlessly. My fingernails dug into his shoulders, pulling him closer. "I've dreamt about this."

Max's eyes gleamed. "You did? But you didn't dream nearly as much as I dreamt about you."

He reached inside a nightstand drawer and pulled out a condom. As I watched him apply it with ease and precision, I wondered again how many other women had been there before me. I had to stop thinking about that.

Max started to insert himself into me. "So tight, babe." Gripping my legs, he pulled them up, and my legs spread even more. With several thrusts, he penetrated deep into me, and I moaned with pleasure.

"Are you okay?" he asked sweetly.

"Yes." I quivered, taking him in, but I didn't get a chance to say anything after that.

Max devoured me with his lips as his hips moved slowly, and then gradually moved faster.

"You like that, babe? Tell me what you want. I'm all yours."

I didn't even know what to ask for. "Max," I cried.

His eyes never left mine as he pumped faster.

My head spun, filled with pleasure that drove me to the edge. My arms fell back on the mattress and I clawed the sheets.

"Max," I again cried out loud...about to climax...I couldn't take any more. It was too much—too much of him—needing him to stop, but wanting more. And "Hallelujah" rang in my head. God, I didn't know it could be so good.

"Jenna," Max groaned.

Pleasurable sounds escaped his mouth as he threw back his head. Then his eyes came back to mine with intensity. Embracing me in his arms, he gave me more of him. Time lost meaning, and I reached another level of nirvana.

Max slowed things down. Sweat trickled down his forehead. He was so sexy I couldn't help myself as I gently cupped his face.

"You feel so amazing, Jenna. I want to see your beautiful face when I come." His tone was deep and blazing hot.

Before I could reply, he thrust harder and faster than before. I had utterly lost control of my thoughts and my body.

My eyes fluttered as my back arched with intense pleasure. I couldn't believe the sounds that escaped from my mouth. When Max pulled out, our eyes radiated with fulfillment and my sex continued to pulsate. I was too weak to move and I believed Max was too.

After pulling off the condom, he dropped it on the floor, and snuggled me into him. Hot air blew out of his mouth as his chest rose and fell rapidly with mine.

"I didn't think it could be better, but it was. Because of you." He anchored his leg over mine and held me tenderly. "I'm glad we made up. No more misunderstandings, okay?"

"Okay," I said, catching my breath. "That was...I never felt like that before." My voice was muffled by his chest. Completely exhausted, I lay there, unable to move.

Max let out a chuckle and my body moved with his. "My sweet Jenna. It's one of the things I like about you. You're different. You're not like the other women I've dated."

Hmmm, what did he mean by that? "Is that a good thing?"

Max's finger lifted my chin so my eyes angled toward his. "It's the innocence I saw in you that drew me to you, besides your sexy body and beautiful face." He winked. "I can tell you're beautiful inside and out. You're a diamond in the rough. My once-in-a-lifetime chance, and I'm not letting you go."

His genuine words tugged at my heart. Not only had he called me sexy and beautiful, but he'd said tender things too.

Was this real?

I couldn't believe someone like him would want someone like me.

### Chapter 26

"Do you have family here?" Max asked.

I was still tucked in his arms. We hadn't moved.

"My parents live in San Francisco. My father is a dentist, semi-retired. My mom never worked."

I trembled slightly.

"Are you cold?"

Max didn't wait for me to answer. He pulled the sheet over us. It glided soft against my body.

"It feels good," I said.

Max's eyes shone with amusement and that playful look crossed his face. "I can give you something to make you feel better."

I snorted and waggled my eyebrows.

He continued with his questions. I wasn't sure if he sincerely wanted to get to know me or if the guilt of not taking me out before we ended up in bed bothered him.

"Do you have any brothers or sisters?"

"No. I'm an only child."

"Really?" Max's thumb ran across my cheek. "So soft. I could touch you all day." He paused for a second, then continued with his questions, "What kind of food do you like to eat?"

"I'm not picky. I eat all sorts of food."

"That's perfect." He caressed my hair, making me sleepy.

Since he'd asked me tons of questions, I thought it was fair that I did the same. "I've read an article on your parents. I know you have a younger brother, but I don't know much about him."

"Ms. Mefferd, you did your homework. My brother is younger than me. He is somewhat irresponsible, but I guess I can't blame him. Being the younger one, my parents spoiled him from the day he was born. You'll meet my family soon."

Meet his family? So soon?

"Max."

"Yes." His finger trailed up my back.

"What time is it?"

"Why? You going somewhere?"

"I have work tomorrow, and so do you. I'm sure it's close to ten."

"Don't worry about going to work tomorrow. I'm going to tell them you have a meeting with me."

"But—"

"No buts, Jenna. You're spending the night with me. I want you to stay."

His pouting melted my heart, and I didn't have the strength to turn him down.

"Okay, but I need to work a little in the morning, and I'll call Lisa. I've been out so long, being sick and all."

"Sure. And Jenna?"

"Yes."

"I'm glad you said yes." He sounded so happy.

"I can't say no to you when you pout." I poked him in his chest.

"That was the plan."

"You..." I tickled him a little. "But seriously, what time is it? I need to text Becky to tell her I'm not coming home. She'll worry about me."

"Babe, it's past midnight."

"What?" I'd arrived at Max's at eight. "We've being doing...I mean...that long? I didn't—"

Max let out a full-blown chuckle, obviously finding this amusing. When he chuckled, his Adam's apple vibrated. Without thinking, my hand went straight for it.

Max stilled, apparently enjoying my touch. Then I moved my fingers along his strong jawline, touching every inch of it, trailing upward to his hairline, curving along his thick dark eyebrows, and down his perfect nose to his lips.

When I felt his hardness against me, I unknowingly stuck my finger in my mouth, looking right at him.

Max moaned. "Jenna." My name rolled off his tongue in a smooth, deep, yet scolding tone.

I never knew it could sound so sexy.

"Does your finger taste good? I bet it does. I told you not to do that." He pulled it out of my mouth and sucked my finger.

I tried to pull it out, but his suction was stronger, and when that pleasure shot down between my legs, I wanted more. Letting go of my finger, he shifted his mouth to mine, and his dick slowly rubbed against me.

I got wetter with each stroke. I couldn't take it anymore. Was it possible to climax again so soon? I guessed I'd find out.

"I told you the next time you did that it was going straight into my mouth," he said in between kisses. "Do you want more, Jenna?"

How did he expect me to tell him to stop when his hand played with my breast and warmth emanated where his dick touched me?

"More, Max." I panted into his ear. I had never asked my ex for more before, and in a way I was quite shy about it, but Max's touch put me over the edge.

He spread my legs apart with his knees, and hovered over me with a condom on, and then he messaged my clit.

"You're so wet. I love how I make you wet." With his body slightly pressed on mine he moved up and down, but not inside. "You want this, babe?"

"Yes, Max." The ache between my legs throbbed, and I needed him to release it badly.

With one thrust, I sucked in air and Max filled me. Max rolled us to the side while still inside me and rode me faster and deeper. I followed his rhythm with my hands on his hips.

Having already done it once took me out of my shyness, and the second time was even better. When his mouth covered my nipple, I shattered even more.

"Are you exploding, Jenna?" Max asked, groaning.

"Yes," I whispered, gripping his hair tightly.

I got my answer—it was possible to climax again.

Loud sounds escaped my mouth, and I bit my bottom lip as tears dampened the sides of my face. Why was I crying? But they were blissful, fulfilled, can't-take-anymore tears.

"Louder, baby. No one can hear you. Scream for me. Cry for me," Max panted in my ear as he pumped even faster...faster...never-endingly faster.

I screamed louder, and I would have sworn the whole world heard me. He was that good.

"I'm coming, babe." Within moments, he dropped next to me, and hot bursts of air blew out of his mouth.

My breaths matched his as my body pulsated, making me weak all over. My need had been fulfilled, if not more.

After a short while, Max stood up. "Take a shower with me, then we can go to bed, or not." He twitched his brows seductively. "I have extra toothbrushes and a bunch of toiletries under the sink."

"Okay," I complied, then wondered how many girls had spent the night and needed to dip into those supplies.

I had to stop thinking those thoughts.

I couldn't believe I was doing this. I didn't want to be one of those girls on his list. I never slept over when I hardly knew a guy, but in a way I felt like I did know Max.

Max broke my thoughts when he reached out his hand. When my fingers touched his, he scooped me up into his arms.

It was thrilling and exciting, but my face flushed with embarrassment. Though he had seen all of me, standing there in the shower fully exposed was not my cup of tea.

"Don't be shy. I've seen everything. You're beautiful, Jenna. And I can't take my eyes off you."

I blushed even more. Max's words were so sweet, making me feel comfortable, sexy, alive, and at home.

### Chapter 27

Soothing silk sheet bathed my naked body. Where was I? Perhaps in a dream. When I managed to peel my eyes open, I recognized Max's room, and his extra-large king-sized bed.

Where was Max?

I glanced around.

What day was it? Monday.

What time was it?

I reached for my cell phone as I blinked my sleepy eyes to clear. There were several texts, one from Lisa and another from Becky.

Instead of calling Lisa to let her know I would be staying home for one more day, I decided to text her, worried she'd hear the lie over the phone. I was paranoid. Her return text said she was out sick too and for me to rest up at home. This terrible flu must be going around.

When I turned off the screen, I noted it was close to noon. _Yikes._ Max had let me sleep in that late? But then again, we were at it all night.

Naughty thoughts fluttered in my stomach until hunger pangs pushed them aside. I hadn't eaten well the past week. Now that I was on the mend, my stomach ached for food.

I got up to find my clothes, but they were nowhere to be seen. I spotted his white T-shirt, slipped it on, and headed for the double doors. Hearing his voice, I found him just outside the door, talking on the phone.

Max turned around and stared at me with a sparkle in his beautiful eyes and a smile like I'd never seen him have before. His gaze anchored me where I stood, making me turn hot all over. Just the sight of him made my lips curl.

"Sure," he said to the person on the other line. "Maybe next weekend. Yeah, I'm loving the view right in front of me too." Max winked at me, and knowing I was his view made me smile even bigger. "Listen," he continued, "I gotta go. I'll talk to you after I ask her, okay? Bye."

Ask her? Who is her? Then my heart tugged a little and not in a good way.

"Good morning," he greeted, his eyes never leaving mine as he came for me and gave me a tender kiss on my forehead. It warmed my heart.

"Good morning." My voice sounded hoarse. "You let me sleep in so late."

His fingers played with mine. "You must be starving."

"I am." I flashed my teeth. "And I can't find my clothes."

"I want you in my T-shirt all day, or maybe naked. You can decide, but I'm not giving your clothes back until you're ready to go home. Although I'd prefer to keep you here forever." He held me tightly, rocking us slightly back and forth.

What could I say after that? "I like your T-shirt. It's so soft."

"You can have it."

"But I already stole one from you," I said.

"You stole one?"

"I kept the one you gave me when we were in New York."

"Uh-huh, I see...thus the T-shirt when I was in your apartment. But I already knew that."

"How?"

"I had a feeling. I also checked for the tag and there was none. And it has my initials on it, MK. I had it specially made." Max must have seen the question in my eyes. Before I could ask, he said, "Don't worry, I'm not a pervert or anything. I didn't look anywhere else, except at your beautiful face. You looked like an angel sleeping. As much as I wanted to climb into bed with you, I didn't think you would approve."

I smiled, again grateful for his care.

"Let's go feed that stomach of yours before you eat your finger." He enclosed my hand in his and led me to the dining table.

Max pulled out a chair for me.

Plates filled with bagels, eggs, bacon, and all sorts of fruits had been laid out. Max poured some juice for us and sat beside me.

"Hi," he said, grinning like a schoolboy. Then he placed a napkin over my lap and a plate in front of me.

I snorted. "Hello."

"What would you like to eat?"

"Everything." But I didn't mean it.

"Everything it is." He filled my plate with food.

I gulped half of my juice. Then I picked up the fork and went straight for the blueberries. "Did you sleep well last night?" I tried not to be shy about the whole situation. This wasn't something I'd done before.

Max swallowed a bite of bagel and nodded. "How about you?"

"Good, thank you. Your bed is so comfortable."

Max leaned over, creating that heat again. "You know you can sleep in it every night if you'd like. We can be sleeping buddies and breakfast buddies too."

I smiled and looked away, not knowing how to answer or if I was meant to answer it. I also wasn't sure if he meant it or if he was just flirting.

"What's wrong?" He seemed concerned.

"I—it's just that I've never slept with...I mean, we didn't even date..." I turned red. I felt so hot, I wanted to take his shirt off.

"Jenna, it's okay." Max's hand rested over mine and idly rubbed my knuckles. "I know you don't do one-night stands or jump into bed on the first date. I can tell. And I know you take relationships seriously. So don't worry. And I'm not so bad that I would take advantage of you like that."

I gave him the biggest smile. Max knew me, unlike Luke. And I believed him when he said he wouldn't take advantage of me. Feeling less embarrassed, I happily took a bite of the bagel with cream cheese. Max had been sweet enough to spread it on for me before I could reach for the container.

"Do you have plans next Saturday?" Max asked, placing his glass down after taking a sip of orange juice. "That was my brother on the phone. I'd love for you to meet him."

"Ummm." I was happy at the thought that when Max had said 'I'll ask her,' he'd meant me. "I think I'm free."

"Good," he said excitedly. "I'll pick you up before we go to my parents' house."

"What did you say?"

He gave me a sideways glance. "My parents," he repeated slowly. Then he blinked, the realization hitting him. "I'm sorry. Is it too soon?"

It was a little too soon, but seeing the sparkle leave his eyes, I couldn't say no.

"No. I'll be okay. Just as long as they know I'm coming and they are fine with it."

"Of course they will be. But I don't want to wait a week before I see you again. Let me check my schedule so I can take you out on a real date."

"I would love to go on a date with you," I said between chewing. "And...going to your parents...is it for a special occasion, or simply because your brother is in town?"

"Just because." He shrugged.

"Should I wear something special? A dress?"

Max chuckled. "This is why I adore you. You care. You can wear jeans and a sweater if you like. My parents are humans, not gods. Don't worry too much. They will love you. But if you're asking _me_ what you should wear—" He arched his brows playfully.

"Never mind." I smiled giddily. "Eat before your food gets cold."

Max leaned over, smacked a good kiss on my lips and pulled my bottom lip with his teeth. The glass of cold juice wouldn't be enough to cool me down.

### Chapter 28

"You're meeting his parents?" Becky shrieked. She had changed into the sweatsuit she had bought when we went shopping together. Hers was purple and mine was black. " _The_ Mr. and Mrs. Knight? Already? Wow."

I settled on the sofa with a mug of hot green tea. "He made it sound like it was no big deal."

"No. You're trying to make it sound like it's no big deal." Becky sat next to me and took a sip of her tea.

"I don't know. He's moving too fast, maybe 'cause I gave him permission by sleeping with him so soon." I groaned, burying my head in the palm of my hand, then looked up. "I've never done that before."

"I know." Becky took another sip. "I was shocked when you messaged me you were spending the night. Anyway, it's nothing bad. You know my history. I've had a couple of those 'relationships' in our college days. Two consenting adults fulfilling their needs, I think it's perfectly fine. But I understand, 'cause"—she took another sip and sighed—"I know you."

Taking in the warmth from my mug, I sank in deeper as I thought of Max. "I'm okay with it, but only because he makes it okay for me. I mean, he says the sweetest things. He knows I'm not like that. At least he says he knows." I blew into the mug and took another sip.

"Just be careful. I'm not saying he's going to hurt you, but I've been with enough men to know a guy doesn't take a girl to his parents' house unless he's serious."

"He said he wanted me to meet his brother. It's just that I'm now officially dating my boss's son, which I tried to avoid."

The realization hadn't hit me until I left Max's penthouse. I would be officially meeting the couple I'd looked up to since I first wanted to work in the fashion industry. Though excited, a part of me was extremely uneasy about the whole situation.

"Who cares, Jenna? Don't worry so much. Just take it one day at a time. It may actually turn out to be something great. Anyway, it's after nine. I need to get some work done, and you need to go to work tomorrow since you took Monday off."

"I know." Those words again: something great. I wanted him to be my something great.

Becky was already up and walking toward her bedroom door. "Oh, don't forget, we're going out to lunch this Sunday to celebrate with Nicole."

"I won't forget. Good night, Becky." I headed to my room.

"Good morning," I greeted my team, and then I went straight to my desk.

"You feeling better, Jenna?" Lisa asked. "You must have been really sick. It seemed like everyone who went to New York got the bug."

"Yes, I heard." My cheeks slightly flushed with warmth. I wondered if they could see right through me and knew I was out yesterday with Max. Not liking the attention on me, I changed the subject, "Are you feeling better too?"

"Yes, thank you. I had a twenty-four-hour bug."

Work had piled up since I hadn't been there since last week. I thanked Lisa for taking care of things while I was out. I made a mental note to get her something extra special for Christmas.

I typed a reply to an email and jerked when my cell vibrated. My face warmed when I looked at the caller, and I wondered if my team could tell.

Max _: What are you doing?_

Me: _What do you think?_

Max: _Are you naked?_

Me: _No._

Max _: Do you have any plans for lunch?_

Me: _No, but I need to work. You know, because of yesterday._

Max: _Would you like me to repeat yesterday?_

Me: _Hmmm, yes. Maybe. NO. We're at work._

Max: _I'_ m coming.

That could mean a few different things, but it sounded kind of hot. I didn't need to wait long to see what he meant. After a few minutes, the sounds of footsteps increased. Max walked through the door.

"Mr. Knight," Lisa said quickly. "How may we help you?"

"Hello, Lisa, Rachel, Dan, Eric." He smiled at each of them as he said their names.

I loved how he was professional and still friendly with his employees, unlike some bosses I'd worked with before.

Max turned to me, trying to hold in a smile. "I'm actually here to see Jenna."

"Sure." Lisa turned her head to the computer, but she peeked from the corner of her eye.

I swallowed down my nervousness and tried to be professional. "Mr. Knight. Won't you please take a seat?"

Max settled into the chair and scooted himself forward, sitting on the opposite side of me. I wondered what I had done wrong. When he gave me his biggest grin, my shoulders relaxed.

"Lunch," he whispered.

I didn't say a word as I wondered if any of the others had heard him. Not wanting to speak, I shook my head. Max stood up, pulled his cell phone out of his pocket, sat back down, and started texting.

In a way I was glad his attention shifted away from me. I had hoped he would be called away for a meeting or something—anything. Nobody knew I dated Max.

My cell vibrated. Wondering who it could be, I checked the screen. Since Max was busy I didn't think there was any harm in it.

Come to lunch with me.

Max sat in front of me, texting me. My lips perked up as I tried hard not to laugh. I texted back.

I can't. I already told you.

If you don't agree to come with me, I'm going to carry you out of here. You decide.

He had asked me to decide, but he hadn't really given me a choice.

Oh God. He wouldn't, would he?

I didn't want him to pick me up in front of everyone, so I opted to go to lunch with him. Secretly, I wanted to go with him. I just needed an excuss.

I didn't know Max that well, but from what I'd experienced in the short amount of time I'd been with him, there was no stopping him whatsoever.

When he wanted something, he would find a way to get it.

Where are we going?

I have lunch ready in my office.

Why didn't you say so in the first place?

What would be the fun in that? And by the way, I'd rather have you for lunch. That dress frames your body nicely. Not to mention easy access.

I started blushing, giggling—giggling aloud—then realized I was in Max's world and not in reality. Turning to my left and right, I met several sets of curious eyes, most likely wondering why we were texting and not speaking, if they even guessed we were doing that.

"Ms. Mefferd. I'll see you in five minutes." Max rose.

"See you in five, Mr. Knight." I tried my best not to reveal my red face to my coworkers.

After a few minutes, I asked trying to sound causal, "Are you going to lunch, Lisa?" I didn't know why I had asked. Out of nervousness? To be polite?

"Do you want to come to lunch with us?" Lisa swung the purse strap around her shoulder, ready to leave.

I headed for the door. "I believe it's a lunch meeting. Thanks though. Have a good one."

"Okay," Lisa said in a funny tone. "You have a good one too." Her tone was even stranger.

"Mr. Knight." I knocked even though the door was slightly ajar.

"Come in." Max was on the phone, gesturing with his hand for me to come in.

After I closed the door behind me, instead of heading to the chair in front of his desk, I went to the bookcase that took up one side of the wall.

I stared at the photos and spotted his parents first. Max took after his father, but with his mother's eyes. And his younger brother, Matthew, looked like his mother, but with his father's eyes. Regardless, they were both handsome.

I didn't know how old his parents were, but they appeared younger than they could possibly be, especially his mom. She was blonde, which explained Matthew's lighter hair. Max had his father's hair—full, thick, and dark.

I thumbed through the books that lined one side of the bookcase and ran across more framed pictures of him, some with his brother and a group of friends. Happily, I didn't see any photos of any women that may have been a former lover. But then again, they would have broken up, so why would he still have them up?

I gasped when I felt Max's chest on my back. His warmth spread blissfully down to my toes.

"I missed you all day," he said, turning me to face him. His loving eyes met mine, and he cupped my face with his hands to give me a tender kiss.

"I missed you too," I murmured, already heating up from his kiss.

"Let's go eat." He guided me to a table behind his desk that I hadn't noticed when I came in.

Arranged on the table was a bowl of seafood salad and a platter of grilled salmon.

"Max. This is so nice. Thank you. Do you eat lunch like this all the time?"

"No. I'm usually eating lunch with a client or I go out to eat. It depends."

Knowing he had done this especially for me, I felt grateful. "Thank you." I said.

"Are you hungry?" He ran his hand down my black silk blouse. "Your blouse feels almost as soft as your body." His eyes filled with desire, calling out to me.

How could I be hungry when all I could think of was him inside of me?

"I can eat, but I'm not starving if that's what you're asking," I managed to say as his thumb brushed against the side of my breast.

Then a little higher...Oh God...then purposely crossing over my front. The ache between my legs throbbed. Knowing how good it felt to have him inside me, I wanted more, now. But we were at work. He had to stop, or I would have no control over what I swore I would never do.

There was no point thinking about that now. Max had lured me in with his lips, enveloping me with mad, hungry kisses. His tongue touched every part of my mouth as if it were his hands caressing every inch of me. Pulling away, breathing heavily, his kisses trailed lower and lower as his hand slid down with him.

I had no recollection of him unbuttoning my blouse, and somehow my bra came unhooked. I squeezed his forearm tightly and moaned when his tongue caressed my breast. When he sucked hard on my nipple I quivered, utterly out of control.

"Max." I pulled away, dazed. "We're at work." My breathing was so heavy, I didn't know if he'd heard me.

"The door is locked. Everyone is out to lunch. This room is soundproof, but we don't have to—"

I didn't let him finish. Grabbing a fistful of his hair, I slammed my lips to his.

"Oh, Jenna." My mouth muffled his words.

Needing more of him, I took charge. I sucked on his tongue the way he had sucked my breast. He responded by sliding his hand down my back and then stopped on my butt. His massaging it drove me wild.

Breaking out of the kiss, he sat on his chair and pulled me to him. His hand easily slid up my leg since I had a skirt on, and when his finger found my slick opening I achingly shuddered.

G-string undies sure came in handy. With each flick, with each stroke to my clit, I moaned, wanting him inside me now.

"Max," I cried, pulling his tie, silently telling him what I needed.

"Are you ready for me?" he asked, standing up. "This isn't going to be slow and sweet. I'm going to fill your need."

When he whipped me around, my chest lightly mounted on his desk. When he pulled down his slacks, I heard the tearing of the condom wrapper. Then unexpectedly, I felt his tongue on my vagina.

"Oh, Max," I moaned loudly. That felt so unbelievably good.

He moved my G-string to the side with one finger. With a quick thrust, he was in. Holding my waist with both hands, he rocked, then faster...faster, so fast I thought my heart would leap out of my chest.

Covering my hands on the edge of the table with his, he took me somewhere I'd never gone before. The ache between my legs melted away, and he pushed me beyond the point of exploding. Ecstasy made me breathless, made me feel weak and dizzy.

Just when I thought I couldn't take anymore, Max slapped my ass, not hard, but enough to make me climax harder. I had never been slapped playfully before. I liked it and I wanted more.

Just after I climaxed, Max pulled out and held me from behind. We were both out of breath.

"That was incredible, babe," he heaved. "That was the best lunch I've ever had in my office."

Blissful laughter sprang out of my mouth. I had completely unraveled this beautiful man, and I enjoyed doing it. After we looked presentable, he served me lunch. Then he lowered me into his lap and showed me the front cover page.

"I love it," I said.

"I'm proud of you. You picked the dress and gave me your suggestion. And in the article, you are given credit for the front cover."

"Thank you, Max."

"My pleasure. I know a talent when I see one."

"Thank you," I said, processing his compliment. "Aren't you going to eat?"

"I'll eat later. I need to approve a page." He scrolled down.

Eating by myself didn't sit well with me, so I stabbed my fork into the seafood salad and fed it to him. With a look of surprise and a huge grin, he graciously took it. Surely, at least one of the ladies he had gone out with had fed him this way, but I didn't want to think of someone else feeding my Max.

_Oh God._ I just thought of him as _my_ Max. Well, at least for now he was. And I had to agree with him. It was the best lunch I'd ever had.

### Chapter 29

The rest of the week went perfectly, though that was the only lunch date we had all week. Max wanted to take me out to dinner Friday night. Since he was across town for a meeting, I told him I would meet him at the restaurant.

He didn't like the idea that he wasn't picking me up and taking me there directly, but I refused to let him drive all the way back to work and then back to the restaurant.

Not only was it a waste of gas, it was a waste of time, though Max wouldn't have driven, he would've had his driver do it.

Following the address he had given me on my GPS, I got there in plenty of time. The Japanese restaurant was cozy and small but elegant. The dim lighting gave an air of romance, and I had to admit I overflowed with awe.

"We have a reservation under Mr. Maxwell Knight," I said to the hostess.

She studied me for a second, then gave me a big smile.

The hostess told me I could wait at the bar for Max so I headed there. Several seats were taken, probably people waiting for their tables as well. With a quick smile to the strangers, I sat with my back to the door and admired the clock on the wall.

Just as the big hand touched the number twelve, a body brushed behind me, the scent of his expensive cologne intoxicating. It was Max—just in time.

He nibbled on my ear and whispered sweet nothings to me. "Hey, beautiful. Everyone has an addiction. Mine happens to be you. You're my only addiction, and I don't ever want to find a cure."

"Max," I gushed, recalling him saying something like that to me the first time we met.

Then Max twitched at the sound of his cell phone. "Sorry, let me check." A frown crossed his face.

"Who is it?" I asked. His unpleasant facial expression worried me. Though it was none of my business, and I shouldn't have asked, I couldn't help myself.

"Nothing, babe." He shoved the phone back into his pocket and held my hand. "Let's go to our table."

I expected him to take me to our table. Instead, he took me into a private room set for two. After Max helped me take off my coat, he pulled out my chair, and sat across from me.

Always a gentleman.

"Do you own this restaurant?" I asked, hanging my small purse behind me. The hostess hadn't escorted us in. It was unusual to walk into a private room without being shown there by someone.

"My parents do, so I'm not sure how to answer that question," he said lightly. "They weren't coming here tonight for dinner, so here we are. How was your day without me?"

The waitress walked in with two glasses of water and a glass of wine for Max.

"Good evening," she smiled warmly.

I smiled but Max greeted her, "Hello, Ana. How have you been?"

"Good, thank you, Max."

A strange knot twisted inside me, and I wondered if they'd had some kind of relationship in the past. I guessed it would be natural for them to know each other, but the fact she was pretty with a gorgeous body, plus she had called him by his first name, and the way he smiled at her—I stopped myself.

What is the matter with me?

I needed to trust him. He hadn't done anything wrong. Anything between them was in the past, if there was anything there in the first place.

After placing the drinks on the table, she gave us each a menu. "I'll be back to take your orders."

When she turned, I expected Max to turn to check her out, like most men would have, but he didn't. He turned to me with an even bigger grin. In a silly way it put a smile on my face.

"So, as I was asking, how was your day?" Max continued, opening my menu for me. "Pick whatever your heart desires, or I should say your stomach."

"Same old, same old," I said, referring back to his question. "But, yes, I have to admit, I did miss you a little."

Acting as if I had thrown a dagger at him, he placed his hand over his heart and gave me a playful "hurt" expression. "Just a little?" he frowned. "That's okay. I'm not afraid to say I've missed you more."

His words tugged at my heart.

I wasn't sure what to order, so Max ordered lots of sushi, sashimi, and several other things I'd never tried before. I'd never been the adventurous type. I stuck to the same old safe stuff. But I was glad Max ordered new things for me to try.

Max wrapped his long legs around mine under the table. He used his legs like arms, wrapping me inside his hold and keeping me there. It was the sweetest thing, like he couldn't get close enough.

I was falling, falling too fast and too hard.

Max raised his glass. "Sorry, no wine for you."

Blushing with embarrassment, I recalled the night in New York when I got so wasted. "Don't you want to take advantage of me?" I teased.

"Babe, I don't need to get you wasted for that. I'm pretty sure you're high from my presence right now. And if I could close the door and put up a 'do not disturb _'_ sign, I would have you on this table, stripped naked, and I'd eat sushi right off your body."

Heat burned inside me, and his words made my clit ignite like fireworks.

"You're turning as red as my wine," he teased, and changed the subject, "Let's toast." He held up his glass again and I did the same. "To being lunch, cuddle, sleeping, breakfast, and finally dinner buddies, and to our first official date and more to come."

With a clink, I gulped practically the whole glass of water.

"Do you have a favorite?" Max asked, taking a bite of the tuna.

"I like the _ikura_ one." I held it up and carefully placed it in my mouth to look ladylike.

"Why? Do you like the taste or the texture?"

"I like the taste. It's kind of silly of me to say, but I like how they squirt in my mouth."

That did not come out well. Max had the most amused grin on his face. I sank into my chair.

"Do you now?" His glistening eyes reflected in the candlelight. "Would you like for me to squirt in your mouth sometime?"

I wanted to hide under the tablecloth. "Max," I whispered, sweltering.

Max only chuckled. He knew how I would react. He enjoyed seeing me all tense and yearning.

"Sorry. It just slipped out. I didn't mean to make you blush. It's so sweet how you look so innocent like that."

I took another sip of my cold water and shoved a piece of salmon into my mouth so I couldn't talk anymore. I wished he would do the same.

"Oh, referring back to your question about taking advantage of you—yes, I do want to, though not here." He winked.

I almost choked, not because his words were inappropriate, but because of how he made me feel.

During the rest of dinner, we talked mostly about our families. Max told me a nanny had practically raised him, and his parents were always busy traveling. Getting deeper into the conversation, he disclosed he hadn't really had a choice of professions.

His dad wanted him and his brother to take over his pride and joy, the company. Seeing no alternative and not wanting to disappoint him, Max had followed in his father's footsteps. Matthew, on the other hand, did so only for a short period of time, and then walked away from it.

At times he'd wished he had other options, but finding me was the best part of his experience with the company. He partially blamed Matthew's irresponsibility on his mother. Since she was hardly around and Matthew was the youngest, he'd gotten everything he wanted growing up. Max, however, wanted more out of life and didn't want to be spoiled like his brother.

I told Max all about my family. My dad worked six days a week as a dentist, and Mom stayed home. Max said he envied that my mom was around instead of a nanny, and I felt for him. It only proved love and support were more important than having all the riches in the world.

I opened up to him about how being an only child had been lonely at times, and how much my friends, Becky, Nicole, and Kate, meant to me. They were my family.

After dinner, we ordered dessert, green tea ice cream. While we ate, Max's phone buzzed several more times, but after he checked to see who had called, he ignored it.

I couldn't help but wonder who it was. He had that same disturbed look he'd had earlier. Since he'd turned back to me with a smile, I didn't pester him with questions.

After dessert, Max took me home. He wanted me to spend the night, but I told him perhaps another night. I had done it once, but I wanted to wait, and the fact I would see him the next day made it easier to say no.

The plan was for him to pick me up by ten in the morning to head to his parents' house for lunch.

Thumbing through the hangers in my closet, I decided I had nothing to wear. How was it possible I couldn't find one decent sweater? Everything I had seemed so plain.

Then a flurry of thoughts ran through my mind. Would Max's parent know we'd slept together? Were they aware I was one of their employees?

Something that sounded vaguely like our doorbell interrupted my jitters. The sound was faint so I paused to listen. Becky's music blasted in the living room, so it was hard to tell. Ignoring the racket, I continued to rummage through my closet, singing and dancing.

"Jenna?"

When I heard my name, I froze. Mortified that Max had seen me shaking my butt, I dared not turn.

I buried my face in my hands as I tried to build up the courage to face him. Covering my front with my arms, since I only wore a bra and a pair of skinny jeans, I turned halfway.

"Max. You're early. Like, an hour early." I tried to sound casual, but I was burning with embarrassment.

Max closed the door. "Jenna. Don't stop on my account." He smirked. "The music and dancing becomes you, not to mention being almost topless." With both of his hands on my waist, he turned me around and gave me a kiss. "Hello," he said, gazing at me with such tenderness while his hand had a mind of its own, and a dirty one at that.

His finger started at my collarbone, slowly making its way down my breast, causing me to shiver like crazy.

"I-I was looking for something"—I stuttered but paused when he tugged my bra and his tongue started to caress my nipple—"to wear."

"I can help you...in that...department," he muttered in between kissing me.

"Max." I gripped his dark-gray sweater that conformed to his chest in a delicious way. I was glad he'd worn jeans too.

Max pulled up and turned me around to face my closet. Panting and blistering inside my undies, I stood there dazed.

Max reached over me, slid some hangers to the left, and pulled out a pink sweater with ruffles down the front. "You look pretty in pink."

After I put my arms through the sleeves, he buttoned from the bottom, but when he reached toward the top, he purposely brushed his knuckles on the side of my breast, making me ache for more.

"There you go." He closed my closet door. "You're all set."

### Chapter 30

"Hello, Mrs. Knight." I smiled warmly, and stepped onto the hardwood floor. "These flowers are for you, and I brought dessert."

With a high ceiling and a staircase on either side of the wall, the foyer was just as big as I had envisioned. The crystal chandelier sparkled like a star—no, brighter than the stars—from the sunlight reflecting through the window above the front double doors.

I turned to Max who held a mixed bouquet of flowers and a box of cheesecake.

"I'll hold them for you," Max said to his mother.

Max's mother hugged me and smiled when she released me. "Welcome, Jenna. Thank you so much. It wasn't necessary, but it was so sweet of you. Max has told me so much about you. Please, call me Ellen."

Ellen took the flowers from Max's hand. "I'll put these in a vase." Then she took the box. "I can take this too. Take Jenna into the family room."

Ellen was even more gorgeous in person than in the photos. Her beautiful blonde hair reached just below her shoulders. Compared to the pictures, she had lost some weight.

Max draped his arm around my shoulders, guided me through the foyer.

"Is Matt here yet?" Max asked.

"He's in the kitchen, helping Carlo cook."

They have a cook?

"Max." Matthew practically tackled Max.

Matthew was just as tall as Max, with lighter hair. He was handsome too, but not as gorgeous as my Max.

"Nice to see you too, little bro." Max chuckled, then let go. "Matt, meet Jenna."

Matthew raked his eyes over me from head to toe. His gaze made me a little uncomfortable, like he undressed me with his eyes.

"Where have you been all my life?" he said.

Max socked his brother's arm. "Snap out of it. She's mine."

"Hello, Jenna." Matthew gently wrapped his arms around me, as if worried he would crush me, then let go. "Max and I share everything. Don't we, Max?"

"Shut up." Max pushed him out of the way and led me into the family room.

It was like walking into a home and gardens magazine. With the finest of furnishings, the area had definitely been decorated by a professional. It was all color coordinated, from family pictures mounted on the wall, down to the crown molding I loved so much. It was the finest house I'd ever seen.

"Dad, this is Jenna," Max said.

As soon as I heard the word "Dad" I bristled.

"Mr. Knight, it's a pleasure to meet you." I extended my hand.

A tall, handsome man with salt-and-pepper hair stood in front of me. It was amazing to see how much Max resembled his father.

"The pleasure is all mine," Mr. Knight said. "Call me Rob." He shook my hand. "Please, have a seat. I'll be right back." Then he went to the kitchen.

"My dad likes to cook too. At least he tries," Max said, sitting next to me. He obviously wasn't shy about displaying affection in front of his parents. "In our house, men do the cooking."

"Really?" My eyes grew wide. How sexy was that? "Whatever they are cooking in there smells delicious. And who's Carlo?"

"He comes when my mom calls. She wanted everything to be perfect, so that meant she wouldn't be cooking." Max chuckled lightly.

Matthew headed our way with open beer bottles in his hands. Max took one.

"I'm fine," I said politely when Matthew offered.

"Then two for me." Matthew sat across from us. Leaning back into a comfortable position, he crossed his legs.

"Babe, would you like anything to drink?" Max asked after taking a sip.

"No, thank you." I didn't want Max to leave my sight. Being under the microscope with Matthew was nerve-wracking enough.

"So how long are you in town, Matthew?" I asked, breaking the ice.

"Actually, I'll be in town for a while." Matthew looked at Max when he replied.

"Really?" Max seemed surprised, raising his tone a bit. "Do Mom and Dad know?"

"They know. I've been doing a lot of soul searching on my trips. I know I need to settle down and help my family, especially since Dad wants to retire," he said, running his thumb over his bottle. "I'll be coming back to work soon."

"Good," Max said. "It's about damn time."

How lucky he was to have the luxury to travel.

"So"—Matthew's brows arched—"how long have you two been..." He paused, waiting for an answer.

Was he going to ask how long we'd been dating, or something else? Surely not the latter, but just from the little I knew of him, he would be the kind to be blunt. Max felt me twitch and looked at his brother.

"None of your business." Max snorted. "And get your mind out of the gutter."

"What?" Matthew laughed out loud. "My mind wasn't there, but now I know."

As red as I turned, I might as well have drunk the beer. To ease this awkward conversation, I broke in with a question

"Matthew"—I cleared my throat—"Max told me you've been backpacking through Europe. Did you go by yourself?"

Matthew scooted forward, sitting at the edge of the sofa with his legs spread apart. "I went with a friend. You should go sometime. It's an amazing experience." He twirled the almost empty bottle.

"I've always wanted to. I've known a couple of friends that have gone, and they say the same thing, but I think I would prefer to stay in a hotel instead of other people's houses."

"We can go some day soon, babe," Max said.

"If Max doesn't take you, I will." Matthew winked.

"Hey, mine I said. Stake your claim on someone else," Max chuckled.

Never having a sibling, I liked seeing the two brothers go at each other. Their ease and comfort with each other was exactly like what I had with my circle of friends.

Max looked up when his mom walked in.

"Time for lunch," she said.

Max followed his mom with one hand behind my back and Matthew followed behind us. Knowing Matthew was staring, walking straight was almost impossible. I felt like he was studying me.

Had Max not brought anyone home before? Perhaps Matthew was protective of his brother. But that seemed strange since Max had told me Matthew was the irresponsible one who would never settle down and hold a job. Max must have been overjoyed to hear his brother announce he was going back to the family's business.

Grilled halibut, assorted vegetables, baby rack of lamb, pasta salad, and even my cheesecake were all presented beautifully on the table. The flowers I brought had been placed in a vase and presented as a centerpiece.

Mr. Knight took off the apron he wore and sat across from Max.

"Carlo, this is Jenna," Mr. Knight introduced while Carlo went around to fill the glasses with water.

"Hello, Jenna," he said with an Italian accent.

"It's nice to meet you." I watched him fill my glass. "Thank you."

With a nod, he left for the kitchen.

"Eat away," Mrs. Knight said, sitting across from me.

Max helped me fill my plate and everyone else followed. As we ate, Max's parents asked me questions about where I went to school, my parents, and where I lived. From the corner of my eye, I saw Max give his parents funny looks. Though I was comfortable answering them, I sensed Max didn't like it.

During dessert, Mr. Knight spoke about how he'd started the company and described his vision for the future. I was all ears, but everyone else seemed bored. He must have told the story a million times.

As I listened in awe, I jerked, caught off guard by something touching my thigh. Max had placed his hand on it, and his pinky gently rubbed me. Trying not to make it obvious, I slipped my hand under the table as I nodded at what Matthew talked about without looking at Max.

I could tell Matthew knew what was happening under the table when he chuckled and raised his brows at Max. As I continued to smile, I tried to move Max's hand away, but he wouldn't let me. His grip was too strong, but at least that dirty little pinky of his stopped moving.

Luckily, I wore jeans and the material was thick, but it didn't matter. Max obviously didn't like that I gave his brother lots of attention and ignored him. In fact, his family fully absorbed my attention. They fascinated me.

They lived a lifestyle most people only dreamt about. Having the best and the finest things in life, going anywhere on vacation and not having to worry about money—who wouldn't dream of that?

Besides spending lots of money, they were involved with several charities, which made me love them even more. Max's parents were almost like mine: good people, down to earth, except more financially well-off, and then some.

The money part didn't matter to me. But the fact that they treated me like part of the family, though I was an employee who dated their eldest son, touched me deeply.

After lunch, Carlo and another lady cleared the table. Max's parents excused themselves to attend a function, and Max and I spent the afternoon with Matthew. As the brothers gave me the grand tour of the house and their amazing backyard, they told me all about what they did growing up: the sports they'd participated in, the mischievous pranks they'd played on their nannies, and a slew of other stories to make me laugh.

Matthew had plans for dinner with his friends, so Max and I had dinner at his house. I assumed he would try to seduce me, but he behaved. After that darn pinky rubbing incident, I thought for sure he'd try something, but it was not the case. He stole a few kisses here and there, but impressively, sex wasn't always on his mind, and he took the relationship as seriously as he claimed.

Max walked me to my apartment. I wondered if I should invite him in, but luckily he spoke first.

"You made me really happy today." His fingers played with mine.

"Just today?" I played along. His look of desire made me crumble.

"You know what I mean. I was afraid you would back out on me." His hand trailed up my arm, over my shoulder, caressing the side of my neck with his fingers.

Max was afraid? "Why would you think that? I told you I would go."

"I know." His eyes became dreamy and sparkled against the light. It was hard to resist devouring him. "It's just that I don't want to scare you or push you away. I've never moved this fast before, so just tell me if I am, okay?"

I nodded.

Max continued, his eyes deeply rooted into mine, "I'm a lucky man to have found you. I've never fallen so deep and so fast. You've cast a spell on me. I'm going to be good, to be the man you want me to be, the man you deserve and will want to have a future with. I know your heart is delicate, but you have to trust that I'll take good care of it. It will be my amazing treasure, and I will hold it as my keepsake forever."

"Max," I managed to say when his finger slid down farther as he stared at my lips. His beautiful words filled my heart, but his touch left me famished.

Taking his time, he slowly inched his lips toward mine. He knew exactly what to do to drive me crazy. I shuddered as his hands shifted to my sides and gingerly kneaded my breasts. As the anticipation of his kiss grew, my heart hammered and heat blistered through my body.

"Sleep tight, Jenna. Dream of me making love to you all night, anywhere you like, 'cause I definitely will be dreaming of you," he whispered.

His breath against my lips inflamed the urge between my legs.

My chest rose and fell rapidly. I thought I would faint. Then Max pressed his body to mine. His kiss was tender and leisurely. We made out in the hallway like teenagers. Then he pulled back slowly, his eyes half closed in a dream-like state, until he blinked to gather himself.

"You better go inside before I kidnap you."

Waking up from my own daze, I shoved the key into the lock and opened the door.

Max ran his fingers through his hair and released a sigh. "Go inside so I know you're safe and then I'll leave."

"Okay." I gave him a fast peck on the cheek.

"See you on Monday." He gently shoved me inside and closed the door.

Trying to cool down, I leaned my back against the door, but I hadn't heard Max leave yet. I peered through the peephole. Both of his hands were on the door and his head bowed.

This was too adorable, too sweet, straight out of those romantic movies. The sound of his footsteps signified he was leaving, and I felt empty.

What do I do? My heart had taken over my mind. I opened the door to see Max walking funny. I guessed he had what Becky had mentioned to me before. She'd called it "blue balls"—when a man got really hard and was unable to release the pressure.

Giggling softly, I watched him near the elevator as I tried to make up my mind.

"Max."

He whipped around. "Get back inside, Jenna. I need to know you're safe."

My heart pounded. I had never asked a man to spend the night in my own bed. I was exhilarated yet frightened because it meant I had already gifted him my heart.

"Spend the night with me?" I asked.

Max's lips slowly curled into a huge grin. He didn't walk toward me. He ran.

### Chapter 31

It was a thrill to wake up next to Max. He slept soundly, giving me the opportunity to study his handsome face. Not wanting to wake him, I carefully slid off the bed.

Max's phone vibrated, and shamefully I took a peek. It was a text.

Call me! From Crystal.

No need to panic. She's probably a client.

Blood drained from my face, sending me back to my college years. Since trust was one of the essential components of having a successful relationship, I had to trust Max. Just because my ex cheated on me didn't mean Max would. I had to give him the benefit of the doubt.

Brushing it off, I went to the bathroom and closed the door. After washing up, I stepped out to hear Becky's loud scream. My bedroom door was open and Max was out of bed.

"Max? Becky?" I ran out.

Becky's hand covered her heart. Her body shook from her labored breathing.

"Sorry." Max's shoulders slumped. "I didn't mean to scare you, again."

"That's okay. We always have half-naked men wandering about the apartment."

Becky tried hard not to stare, but how could anyone resist him? She finally noticed me.

Max turned to me with a smile. With a brush of his hand on my cheek, he went into the bathroom.

"Jenna?" Becky gaped.

Thank goodness Becky was dressed. "Becky. I'm so sorry. You weren't home last night and I didn't know—"

"It's okay. I'm just a little shocked. I don't know if you got my text, but Nicole had to switch it for lunch. And..." Her eyes shifted to my room, then to me. Then they sparkled as she tried to hold something in, maybe a laugh. "In all the years we've been living together, you've never let a guy spend the night. This must be serious."

I didn't answer right away. Twisting my head toward my room to make sure Max wasn't by the door, I sighed and said, "I hope so."

Max left, and shortly after, Becky and I went to meet with Nicole and Kate.

"So"—Becky began, keeping her eyes on the road—"do you and Max talk about his past?"

"I know enough," I said, wondering where this conversation was headed.

Becky inhaled deeply, looking uncomfortable. "I'm just going to say it. This question is none of my business, but do you know about his sex life? Like how many women he's slept with, or how many long-term girlfriends he's had? These are things you should talk about with the new man in your life."

"Don't worry, Becky. I know enough. I don't want to know any more. He's had a few one-night stands and dated many models. He had one serious girlfriend before, but he didn't want to talk about it much."

Becky signaled, then turned the steering wheel to the left. She nodded, apparently satisfied with the answer. "Does he know about yours?"

"Yes, he does. But you already know I don't have much to tell. Basically, I told him I don't mess around. I don't like messing with people's hearts, and I certainly don't lead them on. I told him one-night stands are fine when mature adults agree, but I'm not that type. Also, I told him I have gone on several first dates, but the little spark that got me interested died quickly."

"Does he know about your ex?"

"My one ex? Yes, he knows. He knows Peter cheated on me and I have trust issues." Anticipating the other questions Becky would ask, I answered, "Yes, he knows I haven't been with anyone in three years." I lightened the mood a little, "And yes, he knows if he ever hurt me, you, Nicole, and Kate would hunt him down."

Becky turned to me for a second, then looked back at the road. A light chuckle escaped her. "You bet your ass we will."

And they would, especially Becky. She was the sister I'd never had. Living together for the past four years had brought our friendship to a family level. Knowing we had each other made new adventures not so scary. We could get through anything, even heartbreak.

"Your ring is beautiful," the waitress said to Nicole, setting down glasses of orange juice and champagne on our table.

"Thank you," she said, glancing at her ring with a big smile.

Since it was a buffet brunch, we each headed our separate ways. There were so many different types of cuisine to choose from—Italian, Mexican, Japanese, Chinese, Korean, and many others. It was my first time, so I put a bit of everything on my plate.

Nicole and Kate were already eating and Becky followed behind me. As soon as I sat down, I dug right in.

"Have you picked a date yet?" Becky asked.

"It's going to be a spring wedding, maybe April or May, but after Easter for sure. Keith and I have already started planning." Nicole sounded so excited. "I'll let you know as soon as I pick out the color and style for the bridesmaid dresses. Will you all come with me?"

"Sure," we said in accord.

Kate took a sip of her drink. "It'll go by fast. It's already the beginning of November. That only leaves you with five months. You'd better get going."

"I know," Nicole said with a full mouth. "I'll let you know soon."

"How's Max?" Kate asked, surprising me by changing the topic.

"Good," I said, flushing. That came out a little too chirpy and gushy.

Kate's eyes burned through me. "Oh my God. You did it. You really did it. He must be some kind of wonderful 'cause we've tried to set you up with guys we thought were highly qualified for our mighty queen, and nothing. When did this happen?"

I blushed even more. Did I make it that obvious?

"Recently," I mumbled, gulping down my orange juice. I wasn't good at discussing this topic, mostly because I had little experience. Was something wrong with me? They could talk about sex so freely, like it was no big deal. Maybe I needed to get with the program.

"Did he make you sing 'Hallelujah?'" Nicole giggled, slipping a slice of beef into her mouth.

I closed my eyes for a second and then opened them, knowing I shouldn't be embarrassed. I beamed a smile, and my eyes probably glistened like Nicole's engagement ring as I thought about the times in his bedroom, dining room, family room, bathroom, on the stairs, my room, and—I couldn't believe it—in his office.

If only my friends knew, they would probably have a collective heart attack.

With a shy grin plastered on my face, I said. "And then some."

My three friends squealed.

Nicole threw up her hands halfway into the air. "He's a keeper. When do we get to meet Mr. Great?"

Being at work on Mondays was no longer a drag. It meant I got to see Max—when he could get away. On occasion I was still his lunch buddy. Other times, I would eat lunch in my office to catch up with work, or have lunch with Lisa and Rachel.

"Hey, Jenna," a familiar man's voice greeted.

I looked up to see Matthew racing toward me with a big grin. "Matthew?" Getting out of my chair, I headed toward him.

Lisa and Rachel's eyes practically popped out of their heads.

Matthew squeezed me in his arms. "How've you been?"

After he released me, I smiled. "Good, and you?"

"Good." His eyes wandered around the room. He greeted Lisa and Rachel with a smile and nodded to Dan and Eric. "I'm a floor above you. I settled in last week. Max told me to find you and take you to lunch. I mean, the three of us are going to lunch together."

Matthew grabbed my purse and coat. With his hand on my back, he guided me to the door. He was just like Max, such a gentleman.

From over my shoulder I spotted Lisa.

"He's hot," she mouthed.

### Chapter 32

Matthew was a sweetheart, and so was his Porsche. I didn't know the specific model, but who cared? I should be used to it, since Max had one too.

Max was almost twenty-seven and I found out Matthew was my age, twenty-three. He didn't ask many personal questions. He mostly spoke about his trips and Max, telling what a great brother he had, and how he looked up to him.

Hearing Matthew talk about Max that way confirmed what I already knew; Max had an amazing heart.

"We're almost there." Matthew checked his rear-view mirror, then changed lanes. "How's work treating you? And what do you do exactly? I mean, I know your job description, but I want to hear it from you."

"Our team makes sure the magazines are delivered on time, answers any questions, and fixes problems. We're the customer relations group, the go-to people. We take especially good care of companies that are not satisfied." I let out a short laugh.

"You have such a sweet voice. I don't think anyone could get mad at you," he said lightly, then turned left.

"Thanks. But unfortunately people do. I haven't had any problems at this company so far. Everyone seems so professional and respectful."

"Good. If you have any problems, make sure you tell Max, and if Max isn't around, let me know. I'll take care of it. Max speaks highly of you, and he cares for you like I've never seen him care for anyone before. You are nothing like his bitch ex-girlfriend. I'm so glad he moved on. Crystal was such a—" He became quiet, then he cringed. "Sorry, Max told me to watch my mouth around you."

"You don't have to be careful around me," I said, but I stopped listening after he said Crystal.

Recalling the text I had seen on Max's phone, my mind began to wander. I never asked the names of any of the women he'd dated, but I knew one now.

Not only had he dated her, but she was the one serious girlfriend. She wanted him to call her, but why? Did she want to get back together? Was he dating her behind my back?

Did he have lunch or dinner dates with her when he wasn't with me? I had to stop obsessing or I would drive myself crazy.

"Thanks, Matthew," I managed as he drove into valet parking. There were several cars in front of us so we had to wait our turn. "Enough about me. How do you like your job, and what do you do?"

"I do absolutely nothing." He chuckled. "Just kidding. Before I took off on my little adventure, my team and I supervised page layouts, which order or what model to schedule in. It sounds easy, but there is a lot of work, especially since our magazine is issued on a monthly basis."

"I can only imagine, but it actually sounds like fun."

Matthew's eyes lit up and so did his tone. "Jenna, why don't you join my team for a couple of days and see if you'd like what we do? There are so many departments in our company. You should check it all out to see where your interests are. I know you are great with customer service, but Max told me you went to New York with him."

There was no reason to believe Max had told him about what happened between us, so why did I blush? "Oh, what did he say?" I swallowed.

"He said you helped him with the front cover, and you have a great eye for that. He also suggested what I just offered, and I thought it was a great idea."

"Really?"

"Anyway, I know you're good at what you do since you have experience from your previous job, but here you have unlimited possibilities. Just keep that in mind. It does help that you are dating my brother who happens to think the world of you."

"Okay." I smiled.

When my side of the door opened, my high heel contacted the ground first, and I braced my hand on the side of the door to get out when I saw his hand.

"Max," I said blissfully smiling up at him. The ice-cold wind brushed up against my legs.

"Hey, babe." With one strong pull from him, my body pressed into his. Burying his face against mine, he held me tightly. "Missed you, babe."

He blocked the wind, and the warmth traveling to my heart just from the sight of him relieved my chills. As I breathed in his scent, I repeated in my mind, _Please don't cheat on me._

"Hello," the waitress cheerfully said as her eyes shifted from Max, then to Matthew. "My name is Amy and I'll be your waitress. What would you like to drink?"

"Hello there, Amy." Matthew's tone was friendly and inviting. Leaning back in a cool, relaxed manner, his eyes traced the curve of her body.

The way he checked her out confirmed what I hadn't asked; he was single. I had hoped so for Becky's sake, thinking they would make a cute couple.

"Water all around please," Max said quickly, then looked back to the menu.

"Sure. I'll be right back." She flashed a flirtatious smile at Matthew and left.

Matthew ordered the gourmet hamburger, Max ordered sea bass, and I chose the blackened salmon. We each got a fresh green salad as our lunch was served.

Matthew was hilarious during lunch. I couldn't stop laughing at his stories about his European trip. He also told about how Max had looked after him when they were young.

Max had gotten in trouble in sixth grade when he punched a bully who picked on his brother. Now Matthew claimed Max needed him more. I wondered what he meant by that.

Upon leaving the restaurant I would switch cars and travel with Max so he could drive me back to work. Matthew left for a meeting right after lunch, but Max and I decided to stay for a cup of coffee.

"Excuse me." Max checked his phone. His forehead crinkled. Shaking his head with a frown, he closed the phone.

"Is everything all right, Max?" What kind of message would make him appear so distraught? And why did he keep getting them?

"It's nothing, babe." He returned his gaze to me. But I could tell something bothered him. "Drink your coffee before it gets cold." His tone was stern, but kind.

He reached for something inside his workbag and placed a little box in front of me.

"What's this?" I placed my cup down. Excitement traveled through me like a child who was about to unwrap a Christmas present.

"I just want you to know you're my something great." Max had a huge smile on his face. "Open it."

Trying to contain my excitement, I opened the box and pulled out a key, attached to an engraved key chain that read, "Something Great."

Before I could say anything, Max jumped in, "This is the key to my place. I know you might think it's too soon. If I could have my way, you would be living with me, like yesterday, but I don't want to push you too fast." He twitched his brows. "But I want you to come and go as you please. My place is yours. You can even walk around naked. I don't mind at all." He smirked.

"Max, I..." I ran my fingers over the engraved words.

It was so sweet of him. I became overwhelmed and tears gathered in my eyes. No guy had ever made me feel the way Max did. The insecure part of me wondered how long it would last, but I had to stop thinking such negative thoughts. They would prevent me from fully enjoying the present. "I don't know what to say. Thank you."

Max's shoulders relaxed, looking less nervous. He radiated a smile and let out a sigh of relief. "Believe me, it's my pleasure. Don't forget to use it."

After we finished our drinks, I placed the key inside my workbag. Before I had a chance to grab my bag, Max picked it up from the floor and carried it. Such a gentleman.

It was hard to get used to at times, but I had to admit, I loved the attention from him.

Before we parted ways at the office, Max reminded me about our plans for Thanksgiving dinner. Though I hadn't forgotten, the reminder made me nervous.

Thanksgiving was meant for family to spend time together, and I wasn't sure if his parents wanted me there.

### Chapter 33

"Becky. You sure you don't want me to take you to the airport tomorrow?" I asked, watching her shove her clothes in her suitcase.

"No. I'll take a taxi. It's not a big deal." Becky paced to the closet and stared. "I can't believe I have nothing to wear."

"Sometimes I feel the same way."

"Didn't we just go shopping recently? How is that possible?" She snorted and pulled a black sweater off the hanger. After folding it, she placed it in her suitcase.

Sitting on her bed, next to the suitcase, I straightened some of the clothes for her. "You're only going to see your parents, right?"

Becky slowly turned. "Yes, but my parents' friends will be there with their son, whom I've had a crush on since high school. His name is Ryan. He was in college when I met him, so he didn't pay attention to me. Since the age difference doesn't matter anymore, just maybe..." Becky paused. "What if he has a girlfriend? Whatever. I'm just wearing anything.".

After she zipped her suitcase closed, she placed it by the front door. Then she plopped back onto the bed next to me.

"Dinner with the Knight family, huh?"

"Yeah." I didn't sound excited as I should be.

"I'm glad you have Max while I'm off to see my parents. I know he'll take good care of you." The last sentence came off too playfully. "We should communicate more often. You're here during Thanksgiving and I'm not. How did that happen?"

"I'm not sure. I guess we just didn't think about it." I draped my arms around her.

"Don't miss me too much while I'm gone, okay?" Becky hugged me back. "You have the whole apartment to yourself, so you can do whatever you like." Her tone was suggestive.

"I just might do that." I twitched my brows playfully.

"You have changed, my dear. Max is bringing out the wild side in you. Little Miss Angel is turning into Little Miss Devil."

Even though Becky was teasing me with her words, I playfully pushed her off the bed.

Max picked me up early Thursday evening. On entering his home, his parents and Matthew greeted me with open arms. A few of his uncles, aunts, and cousins had also come to dinner.

Max hadn't told me there would be other relatives, but then again, it was Thanksgiving so I should have assumed. As an only child, and with cousins who were already married with children of their own, our extended family didn't get together for Thanksgiving.

Long rectangular tables were set outside with outdoor heating lamps. Tiny white lights hung around the patio, creating a lovely ambiance against the dark sky.

A table adjacent to ours was filled with traditional Thanksgiving dishes—the biggest turkey I'd ever seen, ham, mashed potatoes, green beans, corn, Caesar salad, cranberry sauce, and gravy. Max was in charge of carving the turkey. Instead of being social, I stood in the corner where Max couldn't see me.

My eyes settled on his biceps. I couldn't stop watching the way they flexed as he stretched his arm and pulled back, slicing the knife through the meat. And the way he bit down on his bottom lip, as if concentrating, was too hot.

I never thought carving a turkey could be so sexy. However, Max looked hot doing nothing at all. As hungry as I was, I should have drooled over the turkey, but I drooled over Max instead.

"Hey, Jenna. Are you going to fill your plate, or are you going to stare at my brother all night?" Matthew teased.

I jumped and heat shot to my face.

Max, having heard Matthew's words, caught my eyes. Flashing a satisfied grin, he winked at me. "I'll be right there, Jenna. Go fill your plate."

I took the plate Matthew offered and followed behind him.

Before we ate, we all stood around the table as Matthew said a prayer. "Thank you for our family and friends, and for this wonderful meal we are about to receive. Let us not forget how precious life is, and how every day should be lived to the fullest. As families around the country gather around their tables to celebrate the meaning of this special day, let us not forget the ones we loved who've passed away. Grandma and Grandpa Knight, and others who meant..." He paused, choking up with emotion.

Max wrapped his arm around his brother, then with a pat on Matthew's shoulder, he let go. I wondered what that was about as he finished the prayer. Afterward, we all sat and ate.

I assumed it might be awkward for Matthew, but he played it cool, as if nothing had happened.

As dinner progressed, I expected Max's relatives to ask me a bunch of questions, but they mostly kept to themselves. With a smile here and there, they were friendly but not overbearing, which I appreciated.

"Do you have any plans for Christmas?" Matthew asked me after wiping his mouth with a napkin.

"My parents live in San Francisco. I'll be visiting them for Christmas." Max and I hadn't spoken about our Christmas schedules, and I wondered how he would take my news.

"You'll be gone for Christmas?" Max sounded disappointed.

My body stiffened when Max placed his hand on my thigh, creating warmth, spreading when he slowly moved his hand upward. Thank goodness the tablecloth was long enough to hide his caresses. Even Matthew couldn't tell.

Placing my hand on top of his, I tried to push it off me, but as always, he was too strong. And if I struggled any more, Matthew would know something was going on underneath the table.

Sheepishly I shrugged my shoulders. "Sorry, I know we didn't talk about this. Maybe you can come with me?"

I wasn't sure what he would say or if he would even consider it, but I'd decided to ask anyway. This would be a great opportunity to have Max meet my parents, since I didn't know when I would see them afterward.

"Let's talk about this later," Max said as his eyes lit up brighter than the surrounding candlelight.

His hand, already on my thigh, started to caress the area between my legs. I guessed he was happy I'd asked him.

The material of the sweater dress I wore wasn't thick enough to protect me from Max's naughty little pinky. It purposely stroked the sensitive area, causing the heat and my desire to flare.

I had to make him stop. I had a difficult time answering Matthew's questions. Standing up abruptly, I excused myself to find the bathroom.

Footsteps followed me, but I didn't think much of it, until they followed me to the bathroom. I turned. With my back against the door, I looked up to see Max. His hands were set on both sides of the doorframe as his eyes seemed to pierce through me with hunger and desire. Every time I was in the circle of his arms, I felt protected.

"I believe this is my stop," he said softly, weakening me with just his words sliding off his tongue like melting ice.

Thankfully, we were down the hallway, away from everyone else.

Quivering, I recalled the last time he'd said those words to me and how he'd made me feel that night—how he was making me feel at this moment. Back then I couldn't do anything about it, but today was a different story.

"I think you should go in there with me," I said playfully, gliding my hands up his dark-gray sweater over every curve and toned muscle.

Max leaned in to my ear while placing his hand by the side of my breast. In a circular movement, his thumb rubbed against it, making me moan.

"I've been wanting to do something with you all night." His whispering hot breath made my knees weak.

"To do what?" I asked, closing my eyes and enjoying his soft nipping on the side of my neck.

"Invite me in and I'll show you," he dared, sucking my bottom lip, then biting down with his teeth.

Somehow my hands found their way to his waist. With one hand behind me, I managed to find the doorknob and clicked it open. I hooked his jeans belt loop with my finger and pulled him in.

Once inside, Max didn't wait after he locked the door. He lightly slammed me against the wall and crushed his lips into mine. His hand lifted my dress and sensually ran up my thigh to grip my ass.

The cowl neck of my dress gave him easy access. He tugged at the fabric to expose the right side of my bra. Tugging my bra to the side, his tongue taunted my nipple, blazing more heat between my legs. When he sucked harder, I could no longer stand on my own two feet. Max pressed me against the wall with his hardness, and he was ready for me.

"You want me inside you?" Max breathed, kneeling before me.

He lifted my leg with his hand and bent my knee until my vagina was exposed. When he teased me with his tongue, I couldn't take it anymore.

"Max...yes...please," I whispered, my back arching.

It was too much. I muttered incoherent, broken phrases. I pulled him up and sucked his tongue the way he had done to my clit and unbutton his jeans.

The anticipation of him being inside me drove me crazy. I wanted and needed him, but part of me hesitated. We were in his parents' house.

_What if someone knocks on the door?_ But part of me didn't care. I wanted to do something I hadn't done before, and my intense yearning for him overpowered all rational thought.

Max turned on the faucet to drown out the noise. I took this opportunity to caress the front of his jeans. When Max moaned, it gave me pleasure knowing I had power over him.

As I wondered if we were really doing this in his parents' house, the phone in his pocket rang. Even after he turned the sound off, it kept vibrating. It would not stop.

"You should get that," I told Max, breathing heavily. "What if it's an emergency?"

With a frustrated groan, Max picked it up. "Hello?"

The look in his eyes said it all. His face turned pale and he walked out without a word, leaving me to wonder who had called.

Max seemed distant toward me after the call. Though he sat next to me and smiled, something felt off. Thinking I worried too much, I brushed it aside, though I couldn't help but wonder if it had been Crystal on the phone.

Using the excuse of being tired, Max and I left first before the other guests. On the drive to my house, he was quiet too. Perhaps he was truly tired, but he hadn't seemed so in the bathroom.

When he walked me to my apartment door, I couldn't take it anymore. I had to ask the question.

"Max, is everything okay?"

I also wanted to ask him about Crystal, but I bit my tongue and shut her out of my mind. It would make me sound jealous, and I didn't want to be that way.

Max didn't answer at first. He looked at me tenderly and brushed my cheeks with his hands. "Everything is fine," he said softly, running his thumb along the line of my bottom lip.

"You can tell me anything, Max. It doesn't seem like everything is fine. Is it work? Your family?"

Instead of answering, he kissed me deeply, passionately, until I wanted to rip off his clothes. When he pulled back, the worried expression was still there, so I tried to lighten the mood.

"Becky went home to her parents. Want to come in?" I asked wearily.

Max slowly gave me that smirk I loved, but then a second later, it faded. "I'm kinda tired. I promised Matthew I'd go golfing early tomorrow morning. Why don't we meet up Saturday or Sunday?"

His rejection stung. He had never turned me down before, not that I had offered many times.

"Hmm, sure."

"I'll call you soon," he said. "Go inside so I know you're safe."

I took out my key from my purse and opened the door. "Max—" I'd try one last time.

Max jumped in before I could say another word, "It's nothing, Jenna. Everything is fine. I'll call you soon."

There was nothing I could say afterward. I wouldn't push his buttons and add more stress to his problem. He'd assured me everything was okay, but I did wonder if he was getting tired of me and didn't have the guts to tell me. But he wouldn't have done what we did in the bathroom if he felt that way.

The phone call he'd received troubled me. There were many other times he'd seemed distracted after receiving a text. What was going on?

### Chapter 34

The dark-gray clouds spread across the sky, full and thick, getting ready to release more of what was already pouring down. Shivering at the sight of lightning from my apartment window and the booming sound of thunder that always followed, I took a sip of my hot tea.

"Come sit with us," Becky said.

Kate was breastfeeding Kristen, her four-month-old daughter. Bringing her along meant she could stay longer, and we didn't mind. She was a joy to have around, but Kristen also reminded us we were not ready to have children.

Gazing out the window, though not focused on anything, my mind drifted to Max. We had spoken on the phone and he had texted every day, but something wasn't right.

It could be just my imagination. After all, I'd only seen Luke once a week when we dated. Perhaps I was used to having Max around more since we both worked at the same place. Whatever the reason, I had to stop thinking negative thoughts. It wasn't like he had stopped paying attention to me. He was buy with work, right?

After I placed my mug on the table, I sat next to Nicole. I couldn't believe she was getting married.

One minute they broke up and the next week they were engaged. It didn't matter why, when, or how it all happened. As long as he treated her well and she was happy, that was all that mattered.

"I was thinking, we can go shopping for bridesmaid dresses after New Year's," Nicole said.

"Sure," Kate said, gazing into her daughter's eyes as she fed her.

Kristen's tiny hand wrapped around Kate's index finger. It was the sweetest thing I had ever seen.

"Just let me know when," Becky said, holding on to her mug of coffee. "So, do you ladies want to just hang out here all day and watch a movie on demand? I can order pizza. It's still pouring outside."

"Let's just do that. I don't want to take Kristen out if I don't have to," Kate replied.

I didn't blame her. The wind howled and uplifted everything in its way. The Weather Channel said it would be like this all week.

"I'll order the pizza," I offered as I headed for my room to retrieve my phone.

It was almost noon and I was famished. A text message flashed on the screen. One was from Luke, which I ignored. I guessed I should let him know I was officially seeing Max, but I didn't want to talk to him, let alone text him, so I let it go. The other one was from Max. It made me smile.

Max: _Hello, my lady in red and my lunch buddy._

Me: _You're too cute._

Max: _I know._

Me: _I guess you didn't learn the word humble._

Max: _Haha. I invented the words arrogant, greatness, awesome, super._

Me: _LOL._

Max: _What are you doing?_

Me: _My friends are over._

Max: _What are you wearing? G-string? Bathrobe? My T-shirt? Naked?_

My face flushed.

Me: _You'll have to come over to find out._

Max: I don _'t think your friends will like that._

Me: _True, and I don't want to share you._

Max: _Then come over anytime. You have the key to my heart._

Me: _Awww, you're so sweet._

Max: _I know._

Me: _Humble. Be humble._

But I was joking. I liked him just the way he was.

Max: _Don'_ t go outside today. It _'s raining like it's the end of the world._

Me: _You too._

Max: _I'll let you go. Think of me touching, kissing, licking, and sucking all over your body._

An electrifying jolt rushed between my legs as if he was actually doing it.

Me: _Already feeling you._

Max: _I'm going to take a cold shower. Kissing you like crazy. TKLS_

Me: _What's TKLS?_

Max: _Touching, kissing, licking, sucking._

Me: _Got it. Now I'm going to take a cold shower too._

Staring at his text, I knew I had imagined things. I had worried for nothing, I hoped.

"Did you order pizza, Jenna?" Kate asked. "I'm starving."

"Oh, I'm on it." I snapped out of Max's world and called for pizza.

With a good restful sleep, I got up early and decided to finally use the key Max had given me. He had told me many times he didn't want to rush me. Perhaps it was one of the reasons why he seemed a bit distant lately. Since it was early Sunday morning and Max would likely still be in bed, I wanted to surprise him.

I left a note for Becky and slipped out of the apartment. As my excitement brewed, my heart pounded at the thought of how surprised he'd be.

As the elevator sped up to his floor, I held the key in my hand. When the door slid open, I stepped out and turned left. What I saw next turned my whole world upside down. Completely shocked, I froze as the blood drained out of my body and I felt my heart rip out of my chest.

A gorgeous blonde paraded down the hallway toward me, buttoning her blouse. Upon seeing me, her eyes went to the key I held and she plastered a huge devious smirk on her face.

Standing in front of me, she said, "You have one too. Well, you're right on time. You must be his Sunday. Don't forget the bananas, chocolate, and whipped cream. He really likes that." Then she got on the elevator.

His penthouse was the only apartment on that floor, so she had definitely come out of Max's door.

I lost my breath. The walls closed in on me and started spinning. As I gasped for air, I turned and pushed the elevator button with my trembling hand.

I needed air. I needed to leave quickly, to get far away from Max.

It was all too clear—the texts and the phone calls. They had to have been from the blonde, and she must be Crystal.

Max was...I couldn't even say the word. I wasn't enough for him. Perhaps he needed someone more experienced, someone who could satisfy whatever his needs were.

Rapidly pushing on the button, I felt unpleasant heat rush to my face. I wanted to vomit as acid filled my stomach. Just as the elevator door opened, I heard Max's voice.

"Crystal, you forgot your jacket."

I think he yelled. I wasn't sure. I winced as he confirmed her identity.

All I heard was the voice I no longer cared for. The voice that used to be soothing and calming sickened me, burning inside me with hatred.

"Jenna?" He sounded shocked.

Blood rushed to my head and my pulse raced as I panicked. I couldn't look at him. I didn't want him to know I had given him my heart by being there and decided to use the key.

"Jenna. Jenna, wait," he called again.

I wanted to look at my Max, the Max I had fallen in love with, but I couldn't. I didn't want to see the Max I hated, the Max who had hurt me to the point of no return.

We were broken, unfixable. Not only did I not have him, I had lost the job I loved as well. Tomorrow would be my last day. I would give some reasonable excuse and quit. How could he do this to me, to us?

Fast footsteps thudded toward me, and he called my name multiple times with desperation, pleading. As I stepped into the elevator, I dropped the key, but I didn't care. I would never need it again. Then I heard a loud _thump_ on the elevator door from Max, apparently hitting it just as it closed.

What was he angry for?

Outside, the harsh wind lifted my hair. I should have felt cold, but I felt nothing. I didn't even feel the pounding rain soaking me, drenching my clothes.

Somehow I managed to take out my key and get in my car. As I pushed the gas pedal, I saw Max running out of the building, barefoot and topless.

What was the point of running after me? How stupid was he?

No, how stupid was I?

As I sped up, trying to get away from him, the blonde kept invading my mind. I saw his lips on hers, his hands all over her body. Things he did to me, he must have done to her.

Everything I'd shared with Max—his touch, his kisses, us making love—felt disgusting. All I wanted to do was get home and wash him away, out of my mind, out of my heart.

Incoming texts pinged like hail and my phone kept ringing. Knowing it was Max, I didn't bother to check. The lightning blinded my eyes, followed by the angry roar of thunder, and the rain poured harder.

I wanted the lightning to strike me, to take me away from this unbearable pain. It should have struck me a while back, to knock some sense into me. The fastest speed of the windshield wipers wasn't fast enough. I wasn't thinking—no, I thought only of Max and what he had done.

As my trembling hand dialed Becky's number, it hit me hard. The hurt crushed against my chest, squeezing my heart in agony. Max had cheated on me.

The words came easily to my mind once I fled his place. Having the initial shock wear off put me back into reality, and tears started to fall, harder by the second, blinding my view.

Sobbing relentlessly, I heaved and gasped for air. I tried to wipe the tears drenching my face, but more gushed out, burning my eyes. It hurt so much I wanted to rip out my own heart. It pumped with misery, making my muscles weak.

My coordination and self-control were diminished as my grief had destroyed them. A hole occupied the space where my heart should have been. Although I should have been numb, I felt absolute, agonizing pain beyond words.

"Jenna?" I heard from the speaker on my cell phone. I didn't know where my Bluetooth was, and I didn't bother to search for it.

"Hello, Jenna? Can you hear me?"

"Becky...Max." My lips quivered so much I could barely get the words out. "He—" Heaving, I was out of breath and endless tears streamed down my face, strangling my words.

_Oh God._ He lied to me. All those smooth, sweet words he'd whispered were lies. He was supposed to be my something great.

How could he do this? Why?

It was my fault. I let him in. I was the fool.

"Jenna, are you okay? Are you crying?"

"Becky...Max...Max..." I couldn't even say the word "cheated." I gasped for air and choked when I tried to speak through uncontrollable tears. "She...blonde...Crystal...Max."

"Jenna, calm down. Are you driving?"

"Yes," I managed to say between loud gasps. My tears poured as hard and fast as the rain. I couldn't think. I couldn't see.

"Stop the car! I'll come and get you. You shouldn't be driving right now. Tell me where you are."

I only heard a little of what Becky said. I was almost home, though the road looked unfamiliar under the puddles. As I tried to focus and wipe the never-ending tears, my phone flashed and beeped.

It was Max, making the ache and the tears worse. Even seeing his name affected me. I blinked and turned away for a split second—one crucial split second.

"Jenna. Are you there?"

It happened so fast there was no time to react. My car hydroplaned to the right when I pressed the brake pedal as hard as I could. The oncoming car, which had the right-of-way, had nowhere to go as I came toward it and our cars collided.

On impact, I felt the air bag explode in my face, jerking my body back in full force. The car tumbled multiple times, and I was sure death would find me as I fell into darkness.

### Chapter 35

I realized I was in a hospital room. Trying to recall what had happened, I reached over to call for a nurse, but my eyelids were so heavy. I had no control as they closed again.

As I floated in and out of consciousness, I made out bits and pieces of conversations around me. If I was lucky, sometimes I heard a full sentence.

"What the hell did you do?" Becky's tone was stern, but she spoke softly as if she didn't want to disturb me.

"This is my fault. I should have told her when it happened."

Max. He had followed me to the hospital. The space that had held my heart was utterly empty. My feelings for him burned to ash when I left his place.

Their voices jumbled together and confused me. I wanted to tell them I was okay, but I couldn't move or open my eyes. Perhaps it was from the drugs they had given me.

Or— _oh God—please don't let me be paralyzed._

"You could have avoided this. Why didn't you stop her from leaving?"

Becky sounded like she was yelling, but her voice was low. She was obviously furious at him. Since I couldn't scream at him, I was glad she did it for me.

"I tried. But she was already by the elevator door. I followed her, but it was difficult to find her in the rain, and I think she got lost. When I heard the ambulance, I had this bad feeling and I followed the ambulance. Did you call her parents?"

Becky let out a deep sigh. "No. They're in the middle of the ocean somewhere. I can't get ahold of them."

"It's okay. I'll take care of her."

"The hell you will. I'm here. You can leave." There was a long pause. "Sorry, but you should've told her. She's a big girl. She's not as fragile as you think. We can take turns staying with her, but I don't want you here when she wakes up. She'll probably fall back into a coma just from the sight of you. Not until after I explain, or you explain to her first—or I don't know. You weren't on the other end of that phone call. You didn't hear her crying. You didn't feel her pain like I did."

Why was she being nice to him? And what did she mean by explaining it to me? Explain what? There was nothing to explain.

I thought Becky was crying, and I cried too, at least on the inside because no wetness trickled down my face. I couldn't feel my body at all.

Throughout the day, as I drifted in and out of sleep, I knew Nicole, Kate, and even Matthew had visited me.

Poor Matthew. I wondered if we could still be friends. Maybe not. It would probably be too painful.

He would remind me of Max and his family. This proved to me, more than ever, I needed to quit my job.

"Max, go home. I'll call you if there are any changes." Becky said resignedly.

"No. I'm staying here. I'm not leaving her. Why don't you go get something to eat? Or you can go home and rest."

"Okay," Becky said. "I'll go to the cafeteria and get something for both of us."

Why was Becky nice to him? What was wrong with her? Didn't she hear what I had tried to tell her over the phone? Then I wondered if Max had fed her lies.

My hand was lifted off the bed, and I knew it was Max. I wanted to yank it away, but I couldn't no matter how hard I tried. I didn't want to be touched by him.

"Jenna," he called softly as he stroked my hair away from my face. "I don't know if you can hear me, but I need you to know. I'm just going to say it and hope you can hear me even though your body isn't responding."

There was a pause and a sigh. "I didn't cheat on you. I swear on my own life, I didn't. The woman you saw was my ex-girlfriend. Her name is Crystal. She had the spare key to my penthouse and when we broke up, I asked for it back. She gave it back, but apparently she made another copy. It's the only explanation I can think of. Anyway, she let herself in and snuck into bed with me. I thought it was you at first, but when I realized who it was I kicked her out.

"She left her jacket, so I ran after her because I didn't want anything of hers in my home, especially since I'm with you. When she found out I was dating you, she kept on texting and calling. She threatened to break us apart. Not only that, she threatened to charge me with sexual harassment. Knowing her, she would follow through with her words.

"You see, Jenna, you replaced her at work. Mrs. Ward probably told you the lady before you took a permanent leave of absence. That wasn't the case. Mrs. Ward fired her shortly after we broke up, not because of the breakup, but because of her work ethic. I should have told you what was happening from the start, but I wanted to protect you from all of it. I didn't know it would turn out like this. I swear nothing happened. Please don't let her win. You and I are meant to be together. I feel this to the depths of my heart and soul. We belong together."

Max gripped my hand tighter, holding it against the side of his cheek. "I'll beg. I'll get down on my knees and crawl to you if I must. I'll do all this and much more, just to show you my love for you. Please, wake up. I need you, Jenna. I've never needed anyone the way I need you." His voice was closer. It sounded like he was right in front of me.

"I don't ever pray, but I'm praying now. If God could just give you back to me, I'll never ask for anything else. Please come back to me. We've only just begun. We can get through this. We're not broken. This can be fixed. I'll fix it for us. I've never felt this strongly for anyone before. I can clearly say, with all my heart, I love you. I know this seems too soon, but I can't help the way I feel. I feel like I've known you all my life, and every life before, if reincarnation is real. And if it is, I can say with certainty I've loved you all the lifetimes before this one, and never stopped loving you even after death. Every lifetime, I searched for you, my something great."

Max loved me? As I let all of his words sink in, the hole in my heart started to fill up—fill up with his words, his love, and his tears that fell on my cheek. The clarity of everything that had happened covered my wounds like a bandage.

My Max cried. He needed me. I should have stayed and listened, but anyone in my position would have run. Ironically, it could have been avoided, just like when Max took off when Luke kissed me.

Misunderstandings and bad timing had definitely gotten in our way more than once. We had to stop this. I needed to tell him how I felt and move forward with our relationship.

He was right. We weren't broken. We could fix this, if only I could wake up. And the thought of being paralyzed scared me to death.

What if I was? I would have to let Max go. It wouldn't be fair for him, though if the roles were reversed, I would still be with him. I couldn't be.

Oh, please God, give me one more chance. Then something worse came to mind.

_What if I never woke up?_ _Please God, not now. I want to live. I want to live a full life with Max._

I had people who needed me. My parents, my friends, and even Max. I needed them too. But I couldn't think anymore. I couldn't hold on any longer. I fell back into the blackness of sleep, or worse, coma.

I didn't how long I had been out, and I didn't know why it happened, but my toes and fingers twitched. Max must have felt it while he held my hand.

"Jenna?" He sounded excited. "Can you hear me?"

I couldn't speak right away, but I managed to squeeze just a little.

"Squeeze me again," he ordered.

With all the strength I could give, I did.

Max let go of my hand and kissed me on my lips. "I'm calling the nurse."

By the time the doctor came into my room, I was groggy and weak but awake. I blinked my eyes while my vision slowly cleared. Focusing on the person in front of me, I was disappointed to see a doctor instead of Max.

Where is Max? Was it all just a dream?

"How are you feeling?" the doctor asked, flashing a bright light into my eyes.

"I'm not sure." My barely audible voice came out garbled and slow.

"Can you move your legs?"

With all my effort, I bended my knees.

What a relief.

As the doctor asked more questions, he examined me and informed me I had been out for two days. Becky stood off to the side smiling while her eyes sparkled with tears.

After the doctor deemed I would be just fine, he left. Becky didn't waste a second, giving me the biggest hug, along with some tears.

"You're going to be okay," she assured me. "Nicole and Kate came by earlier. I just called them. They know you'll be fine. We were so worried. Why didn't you listen to me? I was on my way to pick your dumb ass up."

"Sorry," I looked up at the IV bag. I felt so bad for causing trouble and making everyone worry.

"Anyway, the doctor said he wants to observe you for twenty-four hours and then you can go home. You have a bad concussion. I didn't call your parents."

"Thanks."

Seeing the worried look in her eyes disappear, I felt much better and less guilty. "Becky, where's my car?"

"Jenna, you're gonna need a new car."

"That bad?"

Becky nodded. "You're so lucky you didn't end up like your car. Don't think about it now, okay? You need to rest."

"Okay," I said.

I also didn't want to think about the cost yet. It would only upset me even more.

"Becky, was Max ever here?" I asked timidly.

I wished with all my heart it wasn't a dream and all he had said was real.

"Yes. I told him not to be in here when you woke up. I didn't want him being here to affect your recovery. I thought if you saw him first, you might purposely slip back into a coma." She laughed lightly. "Before you say anything, it wasn't what you thought. Please, just listen to what he has to say."

Becky's words confirmed Max had explained his side of the story to her and explained why she wasn't mad at him when I heard bits of their conversation. And happily, I believed everything I heard from Max was real.

"Okay. Can you tell him I want to see him and can you give us a moment?"

"Sure. I'll go get him."

"Hey," Max said softly, standing by the door with one hand in his pocket and holding a small brown paper bag with the other. He looked so worn out with his five o'clock shadow.

I was embarrassed that I had foolishly run away instead of...but what could I have done? "Why are you standing all the way over there? Come closer," I said softly.

Max moved toward me after he closed the door behind. His smile was gone when he placed the brown paper bag behind him. He sat close to me, but not next to me, as if he was afraid I would hurt him, or maybe he would hurt me.

Max raked his hair back. He folded his hands together as if almost begging and released a heavy sigh. "Jenna. I need you to listen. Please don't shut me out. You need to hear everything before you sentence me to death." He spoke slowly, cautiously, as he studied my facial expressions.

I raised my brows over his last sentence. He had exaggerated of course, but somehow he made it sound sweet.

"Max, before you start, I already know some of the things you're about to tell me. I heard you when I drifted in and out."

I could have let him stew a little and make him wonder if I would forgive him, but I didn't have the heart to be malicious.

His eyes lit up and a hopeful smile appeared. He scooted the chair a little closer to me. "Let me start from the beginning so you will get the full story. I don't want any more misunderstandings between us. My past isn't rosy and full of lollipops like yours. I didn't do anything bad, but I had fun. You're the angel and I'm the devil, I think, sort of, if you want to define the differences between our pasts, that is."

Max held my hand and explained everything again. We apologized to each other and agreed we had to learn to communicate better. It was the key to having a successful relationship.

He told me Matthew helped him take care of changing the lock to his place, and he had also taken care of Crystal. Basically, he had paid her off. Max didn't tell me how much, and I didn't want to know. I just wanted the past behind us.

Max admitted they hadn't gone golfing that day, instead they'd had a meeting with a lawyer regarding the company sexual harassment policy.

He also said nobody at work knew what had happened. He told my team I was on a special assignment, and I would be working from home for a week or more. It was thoughtful of him. It would come in handy, too, since I needed to shop for a car.

I felt relieved to know that his parents didn't know what had happened, especially since his dad was my main boss.

After he had told me everything, we sat in a long comfortable silence as he held my hand and looked at me as if he hadn't seen me in months. Since all was well, I wanted to be in his arms again.

"Max."

"What is it, babe?"

"Lie down with me."

Max stood up and eyed the bed. As I scooted over, he grabbed the brown paper bag and lay on his side next to me. My back touched his front, and the curve of our bodies molded perfectly together.

His arms around me made it all real. From one loving touch to another, I knew we would heal.

"Max?"

"Yes, Jenna."

"What's inside the bag?"

Max chuckled. "This was my backup plan. It's your favorite. If my words didn't convince you how I felt, maybe the heart-shaped Rice Krispies Treat could."

As I giggled, I heard rustling sounds. Max took it out of the bag. He propped me up and placed it in front of me. "Lunch buddies share feelings, stories, and goodies, and unfortunately, sometimes they share tears and heartaches, but they never forget why they were lunch buddies in the first place and what sharing truly means."

As tears trickled from my eyes, his words tugged at my heart. I'd almost lost that feeling and the person who held me. I had done something stupid, and I vowed never to run away again.

"Don't cry." Max wiped the tear with his thumb before it fell to my pillow. "You know I don't like to see you cry."

"Don't worry, Max. These are happy tears."

"Jenna?" Max said softly, lying back down after placing the Rice Krispies Treat back into the bag.

"Yes, Max."

"As much as I hate what happened, I was happy you came."

"I know, me too."

"Don't run away next time."

"Next time?"

"I'm joking."

"You—"

"I made you smile."

"No need to crack a joke. Just the sight of you makes me smile."

Max held me tighter. That was his reply, but his reply intensified when he found a way to slide his naughty hand through the open slit of my hospital gown. I gasped when he stroked my stomach, inching higher and higher, sending shivers everywhere he touched.

"Max?"

"Yes, Jenna?"

"What are you doing?" I yawned and tried to stifle it. Though I was tired, Max's hand kept me wide awake.

"I'm not doing anything, Jenna. It's my hand. Bad hand. Shall I tell it to stop?"

His hand reached the base of my breast. His index finger gingerly caressed back and forth, making me moan and want him even in my weakened condition. I wanted to say no, but he stopped.

"Sorry. I couldn't help myself. Every part of me missed you, my heart, my mind, and my body." His tone was so somber and sincere, I felt the depth of his sadness. Then his tone changed, "I had a talk with my naughty hand. It didn't want to stop, but I told it there would be another chance."

Snorting, I intertwined my hand in his, feeling the same. I'd missed him more than he could possibly know.

"Hot, Max," I said.

"I know." He chuckled. And though I couldn't see his expression, I knew he held a smirk. "You can call me that anytime, babe."

Drained from what I had endured, I sensed myself drifting off to sleep. But before I did, I needed Max to know. I needed for him to hear it from me.

He had expressed how much he cared many times, and though I may have spoken through my actions, which spoke volumes, hearing the words would touch his heart.

"Max."

"Yes, Jenna."

"You're my something great, Max."

He released a breath as his chest rose and fell on my back. He squeezed me tenderly, and that was his reply.

### Chapter 36

A day later, I was released from the hospital. Max picked me up and drove me home. I asked him to stay, and he happily agreed. When I opened the front door, I was completely speechless.

"Welcome home," they all shouted in unison.

Becky, Nicole, Kate, and even Matthew waited by the door. Max must have told them we were on our way. I had seen him texting when we stepped inside the elevator.

My eyes glistened with joy in seeing those people I called my family. Not only that, the familiar scent I loved filled me up. Multiple vases of red roses were set everywhere.

"Max?"

"They're not just from me. Your friends wanted to be included."

After the hugs, we sat around the living room. An hour later, Nicole and Kate left.

When dinnertime came around, Matthew ordered from a Chinese restaurant their family frequented. Though they didn't do home delivery, they made a special exception for us.

Max wouldn't let me get up except to use the bathroom. He propped me up with pillows behind my back and placed my plate on my lap.

Max sat next to me and occasionally he even fed me. He was so sweet.

I was perfectly capable of doing everything for myself, but he insisted I take it easy. After dinner we cuddled on the sofa. Becky and Matthew sat on the opposite side of the room, but chemistry crackled between them.

Sometimes Becky's eyes shifted to Matthew and when he'd gaze back, she would quickly focus on something else. They traded shy stolen glances and the conversation was minimal between them.

Max and I looked at each other, and I knew from his expression we thought the same. It wasn't just my imagination.

Max lifted me off the sofa.

"Max," I squealed.

"Time for bed."

"What? I'm not tired."

"Let's rest in your room." Max winked and gestured his eyes toward Matthew. Then I understood.

"Thanks for coming, Matthew," I said.

"See you later, Jenna." Matthew smiled and gave me a kiss on my forehead.

"Later, Becky," I muttered.

Becky gave me a lost-puppy look as if to ask what she was supposed to do with Matthew. Instead of saving her, I winked at her. She pouted and it only made me laugh. I'd never seen Becky so nervous.

After Max took us into my room, we didn't go to bed. We stood by the door peeking into the living room like two mischievous children.

"Excuse me," Becky said politely to Matthew, bumping into him.

Matthew had stood up just as Becky passed him to clear the paper plates off the coffee table.

"That's okay. You can pretend to bump into me anytime," Matthew said playfully.

With paper plates in her hands, she turned. "What?" Becky's brows arched with confusion. "I didn't pretend," she huffed lightly and shook her head as if it was the most ridiculous thing she'd heard. Then she headed toward the kitchen. "You wish I did. Maybe you got up purposely to bump into me," she mumbled to herself, but Matthew heard since he trailed right behind her.

"Oh, I know you did," Matthew said.

Becky swung around, slamming the used paper plates into his sweater. Her eyes grew wild. It looked like an accident. Either that, or she was a great actress.

Not only did the scraps of food smear on his sweater, the leftovers dropped to the wooden floor.

Matthew just stood there with his eyes wide, not moving a muscle. Instead of apologizing, Becky went straight to the kitchen and came back with paper towels. She gave one to Matthew and got down on her knees to clean up the mess.

Standing above her, Matthew brushed off the leftovers stuck to his sweater with the paper towel. They fell into Becky's hair.

She bit her lip in irritation and lifted her head which put his precious jewels right in front of her face. Though I couldn't see Becky's expression, I could imagine her cheeks turning a bright pink.

"Nice view, isn't it?" Matthew chuckled lightly.

Becky's fists folded as she stood up. Crossing her arms, she glared straight at him. "I've seen better."

"We'll see about that." A hint of challenge.

"I don't think so," she snarled, leaning on one side of her hips.

Unexpectedly, Matthew slipped out of his sweater.

Becky froze with her eyes focused on his chest. Matthew's chest was just as firm and sexy as Max's.

Max had one arm around me, but he used his other hand to cover my eyes. "You don't need to see that."

"Max," I whispered.

I tugged his hand away. I wasn't interested in seeing Matthew. I wanted to see what Becky would do next. This was like watching a soap opera.

"Are you going to stand there and undress the rest of me with your eyes, or are you going to help me wash this off? I have a date, and I don't think she'll appreciate me smelling like Chinese food."

Becky peered up again with a heated expression in her eyes. If steam could have come out of her ears, it would have. "I'm not going to help you wash your sweater. It was your fault in the first place," she snapped. "Go to the kitchen and wash it off yourself—or better yet, ask your date. I'm sure she'd do it since she's dumb enough to go out with you." Then she headed to her room.

"Don't be jealous. I can cancel my date and go out with you instead." Matthew's tone was smooth and relaxed. He obviously enjoyed seeing Becky get wound up.

"Jealous?" Becky turned around after she opened her bedroom door. "If you were the last man in the universe, I still wouldn't go out with you."

The loud bang of the door echoed through the apartment.

Matthew shook his head and chuckled. "Bye, Max and Jenna. Yes, I see you watching. Invite Becky to our family dinner next time. I'm going out. See you later." Then he was out the door.

I turned to Max, snorting. "Is your brother this charming to all the girls?"

"Not this much." Max rolled his eyes.

He held my hand and led us to my bed. Pulling the blanket aside, he gestured for me to get in first. As we snuggled, we laughed again.

"Matt hasn't dated seriously in a while," Max said. "About two years ago, the girl he fell in love with died after a car accident. Her name was Tessa. They had a fight and she ran off in the pouring rain, just like you did. You'll have to excuse him for not being there for you much this last week. He did stop by, but he couldn't stay. It was just too hard for him."

"That's okay, Max. I didn't even expect him to come. So what happened?"

Max laced his fingers through mine and kissed the back of them. "She fell into a coma and she never woke up. Afterward, he was a mess. He drank his sorrows away and bummed around. I don't blame him. I would've done the same if that had happened to you. It's why he left for a year. My parents and I thought it would be good for him to just get away from life. We hoped he would heal and find himself again. I think it did help him. I just didn't expect him to be gone so long. Anyway, before Tessa, Matt was irresponsible, but when he dated her, he was a different person. I really liked her. She was good for him. I know he's still in pain, but I also know he's healing."

I recalled the night of Thanksgiving, when Matthew had said the prayer before the meal and got choked up. He had thought of her. How difficult it must be for him.

I remembered the pain when I thought Max had cheated on me. Matthew's pain must have been a thousand times worse. I couldn't imagine losing Max.

"Thanks for sharing Matthew's story."

"I wouldn't share this with just anyone, Jenna, but you aren't just anyone, you understand?" He tilted my face by placing his index finger underneath my chin and tenderly stroked my lips with his.

"Yes. I understand." I glided my hand over the curve of his bicep.

"Don't ever do anything stupid like that again. I thought I'd lost you. Sometimes we'll have obstacles in our path, but it doesn't mean things can't be fixed. Yell, hit, or punch me. Just don't get yourself hurt, or I'll never be able to forgive myself. I'm not saying there will be a reason to. Relationships are never perfect and sometimes we may fight, but we'll always make up, okay?"

"Okay. I'm sorry to put you through all that."

Max being close to his brother, I was sure he had been right beside him going through the pain. Max trying to help his brother move on must have been difficult too. I could only imagine what he thought and felt when I was in a coma. My poor Max.

"You don't need to apologize. You just need to trust me. I know there are rumors about me, but they're not true. Women threw themselves at me and expected me to love them, but I felt nothing, no connection, and no spark, until you came along. Even when I told them how I felt, they didn't care, and somehow it was my fault." He paused to caress my face. "What shall we do with Becky and Matt? Clearly there is something there. I've never seen him act like that before. I mean, after losing Tessa, unless the trip changed him."

"I don't know." I cringed. "Becky will eat him alive if he's like that around her." I shook my head, already envisioning what their future encounters would be like.

"I'll have to have a talk with my little brother. I'm not that arrogant, am I?"

"Hmmm, not arrogant, just confident." I snorted.

"What does that mean?" He narrowed his eyes at me playfully.

"Nothing, just...Hot Max," I said stuck my finger in my mouth.

I recalled those times when he got me all heated up, from the first time I saw him at the restaurant, when I ran into him at Café Express, the restroom, and at his office. All those passionate, blazing moments before we'd ever kissed.

"Don't forget that," he said with conviction and took my finger out of my mouth, only to put it into his.

"Bad Max," I whispered as an electric tingle shot from my head to my toes.

After I got all heated up and the longing between my legs built up, he let go. He had done it on purpose. Really bad...Bad Max, but he was mine. Mine to hold, mine to keep, and mine to love.

Becky was right. I would rather love hard and get hurt, than not love at all, but I also got the happy ending. I hadn't known what I'd missed until Max entered my life, and I was glad he'd found me.

When you've found the one, your whole life changes. The mind, body, and soul connect and become one. No obstacle is as bad as it once seemed because together you can conquer whatever life throws at you.

The storm had finally died and the sun found its way out again. It was never too dark or gloomy in Los Angeles, and just like anything in life, the sun always did come up, sometimes when you least expected.

"Get some rest, Jenna. I'll be right here. I'm not going anywhere. When you feel better, I'll take you car shopping."

"Okay. Sounds good." I nuzzled into his arms and wondered about the damage this would do to my bank account.

Max reached inside his pocket and took out a key on a key chain. "Matt helped me change the locks. I want you to have this, but I'll understand if you don't want it right away."

"Thanks, Max. I'm ready for it. I don't want to wait," I said as I took it from his hand and traced over the words "Something Great."

Max's eyes expressed happiness, and he gave me that big irresistible grin I loved, making my heart and stomach flip like crazy. Then he leaned in and gave me a tender kiss on my forehead.

Holding the key chain in my hand, I cuddled closer to him and closed my eyes. Ever since I'd laid eyes on him, my feet never touched the ground.

All the things my mom had said to me over the phone reminded me of Max. To me Max was, in her words "someone I could not live without." Max was, without a doubt, my something great.

And together, we would be something wonderful.

Book 2 Something Wonderful

BONUS PAGE

Max's Point of View

Leaning forward, I rested my elbows on the banister. From the second level I had a better view of the attendees below. It was the same party year after year and the crowd never changed.

I stood alone. Had I been down with the crowd, I would've been surrounded by models. I certainly didn't want Jenna to see me as a player.

I searched for her. She should be walking through the door any minute, if the traffic was bearable.

When I had sat next to her during the fashion show, I'd loved watching her facial expressions. Her eyes gleamed with excitement and that beautiful smile melted my heart. I did enjoy the fashion show this time around, but only because I had the most amazing company.

Jenna was different. She was everything I wanted as my partner for life. It was rare to find a woman like her—independent, beautiful, and kind hearted—in my line of work. Most of them just wanted to get into my pants, use me for status, or wanted my money. But everything about Jenna felt genuine. Not that she even cared about me the same way, but I would change that soon.

I had emailed Mrs. Ward to arrange Jenna's schedule for New York Fashion Week. I wanted to make her dreams come true.

A remarkable woman like her truly deserved this opportunity, and I was happy to do it—and I had invited her for my selfish reasons.

I even made sure we were on the same flight and stayed at the same hotel. Seeing my room was bigger, I'd asked the desk clerk to switch them when I checked in.

Just when I started to worry, I spotted something red. My heart flipped. The dress shaped her body seductively and the way her hair was swept up made her look sexy as hell. God, how I wanted to run my hands all over her, but I had to stop thinking with my dick.

As she glided across the floor, all eyes were glued to her, taking in her beauty. I couldn't blame them, since I was doing the same. She held up her dress enough to walk comfortably, but seemed so nervous and shy. She surveyed the room, searching for someone...perhaps me?

She didn't know anyone besides our team, and I should have gone to her right away so she wouldn't feel alone, but I couldn't help myself. I wanted to wait and enjoy my view, and besides, I was in a playful mood.

I texted her.

She looked surprised and reached into her purse.

Hello, lady in red. You look breathtaking. I could just stare at you all night.

Who are you?

She didn't have my number. This was going to be fun. You don't know? Shame on you.

Sorry.

You should put your hair up like that more often.

Why?

If you want to know who I am, look to your left.

Jenna turned to her left, but I wasn't thinking straight. I should have told her to turn right. Instead of finding me, she found Jake.

I snarled. I didn't want her to think those texts were from him, so I quickly texted her again, but she didn't respond. I kept texting.

Jake gawked at her, wearing a dorky smile. Maybe it wasn't dorky, but I was jealous. She smiled warmly, but she looked surprised. Maybe she was thrown off by the idea the texts were from him.

Jake reached for her, pressing his body against hers. I didn't like that at all. Good thing I wasn't nearby. I would've punched him or shoved him out of the way.

Great. I'm not even the violent type. What was I thinking?

They exchanged words and she even laughed shyly. He must have been complimenting her. If he were half a man he should, even though I didn't like what he must be saying to her to make her cheeks turn red. Irritated, I kept texting, thinking I should have gone to her instead. Finally, she picked up her phone.

Not that left, the other left. And I hope you're not disappointed it wasn't Jake.

I shouldn't have texted that part, but before I even thought about it, I had already pressed send.

Where? Do I even know you?

That's not a nice thing to say. Look up.

She looked confused and upset, but her frowning lips were adorable. I just wanted to lick, bite, and suck them. She finally twisted in the right direction.

Then...bam! Our eyes locked, and I gave her the most heartfelt smile. A feeling I couldn't describe tickled my heart and spread throughout every vein in my body.

She had reeled me in with one simple look.

No denying it, she took my breath away. Her eyes sucked me into a tunnel where only she and I existed, staring into each other's souls, if that was even possible.

It felt like I'd known her all my life. We had an undeniable connection, and the most frightening part of it was she owned me at that moment. Yes, I was a lovesick fool and I would do anything for this woman.

My ego got bigger when she couldn't seem to peel her eyes off me. Her chest rose and fell just as fast as mine. Hope surged that I could charm her to go out with me, though she had turned me down many times before.

I was convinced that deep down, she wanted to say yes. It was the only reason I pursued her so relentlessly. I'd do anything to show her how special she was to me and that we belonged together. I would find a way to convince her.

Before she could walk away or decide to hang out with Jake, I had to make my move. Still locking my eyes on her so she knew I meant business, I walked toward her, steadily and slowly.

With every step I took, her eyes radiated brighter, like she came to life in my presence. I was going after her and nothing would stop me.

Then...shit. I broke my gaze when someone kept calling my name. Jenna turned away with sadness in her eyes and it broke my heart.

About the Author

International Bestselling, Award Winning, Author M. Clarke resides in Southern California. When she started reading new adult novels, she fell in love with the genre. It was the reason she had to write one-Something Great.

