Page 6

It's another text from my boss.

Need you back. Holbrook changed the dinner venue.

I sigh. So much for my reunion with Hope. I start typing an apology, but pause.

No.

For once, Adriano's schedule adjustments won't dictate mine. He can handle a venue change without me holding his hand. I have dinner plans with an old friend, and I'm keeping them.

I text back:Already confirmed with the new venue. Details in your email. You're all set.

Before I can think better of it, I add:I have plans tonight. Unavailable after 6.

Three dots appear immediately. Disappear. Appear again.

Finally:Fine.

Unease skitters down my spine. The Adriano Kontides I know would've blown up a fuse by now and said something scathing. So this one-word reply that's practically saintly coming from him?

I don't like it.

At all.

Please don't tell me he has something up his sleeve.

I mean, why should he?

Right?



















Chapter Three

ADRIANO

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FINE.