Page 27 of Enthrall Climax

I’d called Richard two days ago and told him to watch Arianna and make sure she had everything she needed. Getting her a new Dom had been a priority. Still, I didn’t want anyone making a move in that direction until Shay had made his decision, and there would be no circling back around to try and resuscitate their relationship.

“Thank you for understanding,” said Shay.

There came a knock at the door.

“Come in,” I called out.

The door opened and it was my assistant, Sue. “Sir, your 10:00 A.M. is here.” She threw a smile over to Shay.

He threw one back as he pushed himself out of the chair. “Cole, I’m assuming you want to handle this alone?”

“Actually, Sue will be taking notes.” I rose and gestured for her to enter. “Invite Ms. Lauren in.”

Shay’s eyes widened in surprise.

“Mia’s showing me the new brand designs,” I clarified.

Shay glanced over at Sue and raised his brows. “Right.”

“Take the rest of the day off.” I stepped forward and tapped his arm. “Let’s have dinner tonight. We’ll talk.”

“I’m good, really.” He waved it off.

I turned toward Sue when she came back into the office. “Book us a table.”

Shay snapped his gaze to mine. “I’m not compromised because of this.”

“I know.”

His focus narrowed on me as he tried to read what I was thinking. If he thought he’d thrown me off the trail leading to the truth he was wrong.

“You work too hard.” I turned to the door and watched Mia enter.

She wore a modest smile and her blue eyes sparkled. I noticed that her cheeks were flushed, presumably from the jewelry.

I turned to my assistant. “Sue, book a table for three at Remy’s Steak House. 8:00 P.M. works for me.” I held Shay’s stare. “You?”

“Works for me, too.”

“Got it, Boss.” Sue flashed us a warm smile. “I’ll send a car for you, Mr. Gardner.”

“No need.”

“The car will pick you up at 7:30.” I nodded to confirm this was non-negotiable.

Shay’s jaw tensed. “Okay, then.”

“Who is the third person?” asked Sue.

I held Mia’s gaze for a beat. “Someone very special.”

“Shall I arrange a car for your other guest?” she added.

“No, just concentrate on getting us a private booth.” Gesturing toward the seating area, where a leather sofa and several sumptuous chairs were strategically positioned to make that part of the room cozy, I fixed my attention on Mia as she followed Sue’s lead.

Her careful steps toward the sofa proved she was still wearing her accessory. She placed her beige folder on the coffee table and eased herself down onto the leather couch.

I suppressed a smile. “Sue, take notes, please.”