Page 47 of Prelude of Love

Duke grumbled with disapproval. “That doesn’t change the fact he’s twenty-two.”

“And?”

“And we’re thirty-six.”

“Are you worried about the age gap or that you’ll actually like him?”

Duke’s jaw tightened. “I’m concerned about a lot of things. His career, his public image, he’s probably never had an actual relationship, and the list goes on.”

“All the more reason to give this a chance.” I softened my voice. “He’s surrounded by people who either want something from him or handle him like he’s made of glass. But you? You treat him as a person.”

“That’s not special. It’s basic decency.”

“Not in his world.” I resumed tracing patterns on Duke’s chest. “You’ve heard his music. There’s so much longing and need for connection there. And the way he keeps coming back to our places, seeking us out…”

“He’s lonely,” Duke said.

I kissed his chest. “Exactly. And we could help with that. We could show him what it’s like to be truly cared for, to be safe enough to be himself.”

“Or we could completely fuck up his life.” Duke’shand came up to card through my hair. “What happens when the media finds out? When his fans camp outside our businesses? When the age gap becomes tabloid fodder? Besides, it’s supposed to be a casual fling with a hall pass. You’re talking like you want to keep him for good.”

“Can you blame me? He’s adorable.”

Duke was quiet for a long moment. “You really want this, don’t you?”

“I want to try.” I smiled. “And I think you do, too, even if you’re not ready to admit it yet.”

“Duchess.”

“All I’m saying is we could be good for him. It could be great for all of us, honestly.”

Duke sighed in defeat. “Fine, I’ll think about it.”

“That’s all I’m asking.” I settled back against him, listening to his heartbeat, which was a little faster than normal. “Besides, imagine how hot it would be to hear that voice of his in person while we?—”

“Don’t push it.”

“Wouldn’t dream of it, hon.” I traced my finger along Duke’s jaw. “What if I invited Chance over for dinner?”

“Here? At our house?”

“Where else? The restaurant and café have too many people.” I walked my fingers up his chest. “Besides, it’d be more intimate here.”

Duke caught my hand. “I know what you’re doing.”

I feigned innocence. “And what’s that?”

“You’re trying to orchestrate something.”

“Can you honestly tell me you don’t want to have a little fun with him?” I shifted to straddle his hips. “Because that’s not the impression I got from how you were talking about him earlier.”

Duke’s hands settled on my thighs, but he stayed quiet.

“That’s what I thought.” I leaned down, pressing soft kisses along his jaw. “Please let me invite him over. We’ll make it a casual dinner and conversation.”

“Nothing’s casual with you,” he pointed out as his hands slid up to my hips.

I nipped at his earlobe. “Are you saying you’re not attracted to him?”