Page 73 of Night and Day

Sierra squealed.

“This is temporary. He’s not here forever. We made a deal to…enjoy this thing between us. Then he’ll leave.”

Now, Allie’s face changed. She looked worried. “You don’t do one-night stands, Tessa.”

“The old Tessa doesn’t. The one who always followed the rules, and was good all the time. But why shouldn’t I enjoy myself for once? We’re two consenting adults. He’s agreed that it’s got nothing to do with work.”

Sierra nodded. “I like this idea.”

Jazz nodded as well. “If I wasn’t married, I’d take a bite out of that man myself.”

Allie was quiet. “This could blow up in your face.”

“It won’t.”

“I’ve known you most of my life, Tessa Ashford. You’re going to catch feelings.”

“Iwon’t. I won’t let that happen.” I smiled. “He won’t be here long enough for that to happen. I’m going to enjoy spending some time with a hot, smart guy. He surprised me. I like him. He’s not what I expected.”

The worry on Allie’s face didn’t dissipate.

“Chill out, Allie, and let her enjoy herself.” Sierra held her glass up. “All right, here’s to multiple orgasms with hot billionaires.”

We all clinked our glasses together.

I leaned into Allie. “And here’s to good friends.”

Chapter18

Ro

God, this day felt like it was never going to end.

My headache was back. I’d had so many calls regarding the Maldives deal and it was still teetering on the edge of collapse. Tristan had flown to New York to meet with the players in person. I’d thrown my weight around via video calls.

I wanted it. I’d hate to see it fail.

Failure was never an option.

I turned to slam a flurry of punches into my punching bag. It swung under the fury of my hits. I’d come up to the penthouse for a late afternoon workout, hoping that would decrease my stress and help me fight off the damn headache.

My cellphone vibrated on the coffee table. I pulled one glove off and lifted the phone. A voicemail from my father. I deleted it without listening.

Then I went back to punishing the bag. My punches melded into a steady rhythm and soon I felt sweat soaking my T-shirt.

The only bright spot in my day was dinner with Tessa tonight. My body tightened with anticipation.

There was a knock at my door. I raised my voice. “Come in.”

I heard a beep, then Caden and Piper walked in. We’d had several meetings while I boxed. They were used to it.

“Hey, I have good news and bad news.” Piper sank gracefully onto the couch in front of me.

“Good news first.” I took off my gloves, then grabbed a bottle of water and chugged. Snatching up my towel, I wiped my face and neck.

“The good news is the Langston Paris renovations will be finished next week.”

“You are a goddess, Piper. But also a sharp-toothed piranha who rips her prey to pieces and leaves no prisoners.”