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I don’t wait for a reply, instead I make my way to the kitchen and drink a large glass of ice-cold water as there is no time for the kind of shower I need right now.

April joins me in a tight-fitting pair of jeans and a crop top, exposing toned abs. I swallow hard and take another gulp of water.

“Where are we going, Cal?”

“It’s a surprise.”

She stares at me for a moment, then smiles. My breath catches in my throat.

“Intriguing.”

I motion for her to lead the way as we leave the apartment, my eyes drawn to the fluid movement of her hips. I’m already playing with fire, and I must not go there. She’s down on her luck. I will not take advantage of her. One nightwith April Wilson is not enough, but I’m not sure I’ll survive another—not intact at least. This woman does things to me, makes me feel things. The more I get to know her, the worse it’s getting, and she’s only been here less than a week. My brain is full of her, so much so I’m struggling to even concentrate at work.

“So, are you going to tell me where we’re going?” she asks, her interest piqued.

It’s my turn to smile.

“What part of—it’s a surprise…” I tell her, has her chuckling.

“You can’t blame a girl for trying,” she says as we make our way down in the lift to find Mason waiting for us by the car.

“Hi, Mason,” she says, earning herself a smile from Mason.

I scowl at him which makes him smile even more.

“Do you ever drive yourself?” April asks when I finally join her on the back seat. “Can you even drive?”

I laugh.

“I can and do. Cars and driving are a hobby of mine,” I tell her.

She looks at me, and I shrug.

“However, visiting building sites and potential sites, most of the older buildings don’t have parking garages. Having to arrive thirty minutes to an hour early just to ensure I can find a parking space is not an economical use of my time. Having Mason drive me, saves me both time and money,” I explain. “Plus, I’m not a great lover of talking while driving, especially in the city. Too many hazards… and people. This way, I can continue working while moving from A to B.”

April nods. “That’s logical.”

We make small talk as we travel through the streets. It’s not long before Mason is pulling up outside a large building.

April looks out of the window at the sign, before her eyes flying to mine.

“Why are we here?” she asks, her face a mask of confusion.

“This is your surprise.”

“Er Cal, why are we at Scarlett Dupree’s Dance and Choreography Studio?”

I can see the pulse throbbing in her neck, her heart is racing. Scarlett is one of the top choreographers in the world and a friend from school. She’s also been involved in countless music videos, theatre, and film productions. She returned to the UK a couple of years ago, got married and set up this school after being based in the US for most of her career.

I say nothing. Instead, I get out and walk towards the entrance.

“Are you coming?” I say, turning around and waiting.

Clearly not wanting to be left behind, April jumps out of the car and follows me.

I hold open the door, and April steps around me. Her mouth drops but she quickly closes it. I must admit, Scarlett has done an amazing job. Even her reception area is stunning. The girl sitting behind the desk greets us.

“Hi,” she says. “How can I help you?”