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My mind wanders to the kiss we shared during our photoshoot. The way it felt to be wrapped in his arms as he leaned in, a gentle whisper of breath on my skin. The temptation to feel his lips on mine was too strong to resist, goading him to close the distance between us.
I was lost in the moment and when Cash pulled back, I panicked when I saw my lipstick on his mouth. It didn’t help that there was a photographer there capturing what should have been a private moment.
Last week, being in a relationship was the furthest thing from my mind. Now, I’m fighting off feelings for a man who has irresistible humor, a seductive smile, and a touch that sends a shiver down my spine.
“Our marriage exists only on paper and once this is all over, we’ll go our separate ways. I tell August, brushing my hands together in a wiping motion.
“I’ll believe it when I see it.” He snickers.
Why does his comment have me questioning my declaration?
“I have to get back to work,” I announce as I check my computer screen to find that thirty new emails have hit my inbox since we started chatting. “Unless you want to do my work for me?”
“No, thank you.” August quickly retreats toward the door. “I’ve got to go break the news to Liam. Wish me luck,” he grumbles.
“Good luck,” I holler after him.
I’m just relieved I’m not the one who has to tell him about the acquisition.
I’m exhausted when I get back to Cash’s apartment. It was a long day at the office, and I hadn’t eaten since August shared his chicken club sandwich with me earlier this afternoon. My stomach growls just thinking about the juicy grilled chicken and crispy bacon served on sourdough bread with tangy mayo. I should have grabbed dinner on my way back to the apartment.
When I enter the penthouse, there’s an upholstered bench in the entryway that wasn’t there this morning. I sit and experience immediate relief as the weight is lifted from my feet.
“Ev, is that you?” Cash shouts from the kitchen.
“Yeah,” I yell back.
Honestly, it’s strange coming home to someone waiting for me. When Landon and I were together, I was the one doing the waiting. Oddly enough, I don’t mind it as much as I thought I would.
I slip off my stilettos and tuck them, along with my purse, under the bench.
Once I’m finished, I follow the delicious scent of smoky salmon, lemon, and herbs. Cash is at the counter, setting plates of food next to two glasses of water, each garnished with a lime wedge.
“Welcome home,” he greets me with a grin, his hazel eyes shining enthusiastically. “I hope you’re hungry.”
“What’s all this?” I wave at the display of food.
“Dinner. Why don’t you take a seat and we’ll eat, unless you’d prefer to change first?”
I shake my head. “No, let’s eat now.” I’m mortified when my stomach growls loud enough for him to hear.
“Sounds like you made the right choice.” Cash chuckles. “Here—” He pulls out the chair on the right, motioning for me to sit down. I freeze momentarily, taken aback by his thoughtful gesture.
“Thanks,” I murmur as I settle in my chair.
“I kept the menu pretty simple tonight. We’ve got smoked salmon, roasted vegetables, and mixed greens with a balsamic vinegar dressing,” he says, pointing to each item on his plate.
“Is that all?” I tease. “This looks incredible. Far better than any takeout I would have ordered. You made all this for me?”
In the five years Landon and I were together, he never cooked for me. And I have a habit of burning anything I attempt to make, so I’ve grown accustomed to takeout.
“Yes, it’s for you, but it’s only dinner, Ev. Don’t overthink it,” he says, like he can read my mind.
“When you suggested I move in, I figured we’d mostly keep to ourselves. The last thing I expected was for you to be here waiting for me,” I admit.
“Do you want me to leave?” he asks earnestly.
“What? No, this is your home.”