Page 4 of Enthrall Climax

Maybe he’d picked up on my mood after those long days spent in the marketing department in my little cubicle. I’d been given a shot at the corporate world and I wanted to prove I could make it.

Cameron went quiet, as though hoping I’d puncture the silence and talk myself out of this so we could walk into the Peninsula Hotel tonight as a couple. Part of me wanted to see Dana’s jaw hit the floor when she realized who I was with. Her caustic comments about my clothes grated on my nerves. Maybe I leaned a little too much toward a bohemian style with my silk blouses and flowing skirts, but it was my way of holding on to the old me.

I reached across the table and placed my hand on Cameron’s, giving it a squeeze. “Why are we here?”

His brows rose. “Ms. Lauren, I am officially offering you an executive position in my department. The salary is generous. The hours favorable. I’ll match your 401K.” He smiled at that.

Considering he was a billionaire and we were months from tying the knot it was kind of funny.

“The perks are never-ending…” He suppressed his amusement at his insinuation. “I’ll give you Fridays off to explore other interests.”

“Other interests?”

“Other ambitions.”

The only ambition I’d once had was becoming a fashion designer. Cameron had come across my sketches when he’d first visited my studio apartment in L.A. I’d hidden them away after that and never discussed them. Not all dreams were meant to be realized.

“I’ll consider your generous offer.”

He folded his arms across his chest. “You’ll have your own office.”

“I’m not saying no. I’m saying not right now.”

“Isn’t that my line?”

“I’m flattered, truly.”

“Tonight will not be easy.” He blew out a breath of frustration. “Henry will be there.”

“I’ll explain it to your big brother.” I shrugged. “Or you can.”

“There’s another matter I need to discuss with you.” He sat forward and reached out for my hand.

“Oh?”

His brow furrowed as he seemed to recognize someone across the room. “We should go.” He gestured to our waiter for the check.

The bill was brought to our table and I reached for it, stuffing my credit card into the leather folder.

“Mia, don’t,” he said, looking abashed.

“I like doing it. I earn a good salary.”

“Still…”

“It makes me happy.” I placed my napkin on the table and folded it. “Thank you for understanding about my job.”

“I want to make life easier for you.”

“This is good for me.” I lowered my gaze. “You spoil me too much.”

When the check came back I signed it, all the while ignoring his disapproving stare.

Cameron pressed his phone to his ear. “Hey, Ben, we’re ready to leave.” He hung up and pushed himself to his feet, rounding the table. He took hold of the back of my chair and eased it out. “Wait for me in the car.”

I rose to my feet and went to turn around, but he stopped me.

“No.” His gesture indicated he didn’t want me to look.