Page 7 of The Publicist
“I won’t push for the story; it’s none of my business anyway. I don’t think she’s good for you though. She seems to party just as much as you, and I’m trying my damndest to break that image.”
My blood pressure rises, and I grit my teeth. “That’s bullshit.”
She lets out an exasperated sigh. “Don’t get your panties in a twist, Caleb. I’m just trying to figure out your bad boy persona so I know what I’m working with. Since it’s not true, wanna set the record straight?”
I think about it and weigh my options. Elena stops after two drinks when we go out, and she makes sure I get out of there in one piece. “She goes because I ask her to, so I don’t do anything stupid.”
“So, she goes because you ask her to? What about when she’s not available?”
“I drink alone. What’s with the third degree?” I’m irritated at the insinuations, and I’m not comfortable discussing this with her.
“I told you; I’m doing my job.”
“Fine, if she’s not allowed to come out partying with me anymore, you’re coming. You keep telling me I need someone to keep me in check, and I’m not stopping.”
She laughs and her voice sounds like heaven. It’s light and airy, just as I pictured it would be. “No, I don’t go clubbing. Find someone else if you must continue.”
“It’s either you or Elena, but Iamgoing to continue to go.”
Sitting up, she throws her legs over the side of the bed and leans forward, allowing me to see down the top of her shirt just slightly. “Why is it so important that you go? Why can’t you spend a quiet evening at home, watching a movie? Hell, Netflix and chill for all I care.”
I smirk. She has no idea the can of worms she opened. “Fine, if you’re going to make me say at home, you’re coming over for Netflix and chill. Give me your phone.”
She rolls her eyes and scoffs. “You’re insane. I’m not going over to your house, and I’m not giving you my phone.” She clutches the phone like it’s her lifeline.
I shrug. “I’ll get your number from Steve. If you don’t want me partying though, you’re coming over. It ensures I don’t go out and get wasted, that I don’t go home with a random chick, and that I stay out of the press. See? Everyone is happy that way.”
“Call Elena or another friend so you aren’t alone at your house. I’m not your mother, Caleb. I’m not going to supervise you.”
I’ll get her to my house one way or another.I shrug, trying to convey my lack of interest.
Chapter 7
Damn,this man is hot! I’m having a hard time keeping it professional with him talking about Netflix and chill. My mind keeps wandering. What would it be like stretched out in his bed, his hands roaming my body and his mouth on mine?He’s just a flirt. Get the ideas out of your damn head, Quinn.When he grazed my back with his finger while helping me with my dress, I almost whimpered.Almost!I held it back rather impressively. The last thing I need to do is run him off.
My shoes arrive right before the pizza, and we eat quietly. My thoughts are focused on the strange conversation we just had.Why does he want me to come over so badly?It’s very strange, and he got quite defensive over Elena. There is way more to the story, and I want to know the rest. One-thirty rolls around, and I have to leave. I stop with him at his room and lean against the wall as he unlocks it.
“I expect you to be ready and waiting outside your room at four-fifteen. We’ll head down together. Just like earlier today, you will smile, take pictures, and be happy with your fans. We will then head over to the gala. Do you have your speech?”
“Steve should have it. He told me he has it anyway.”
“Good, I’ll message him for a copy of it just in case. Make tonight easy for me, huh? I’m working, but I would still like to have a small buzz going.”The buzz will also help me try to forget about how gorgeous you are.
“Hey, babe, if you’re drinking, I’m drinking. I can only imagine what fun the two of us will have.” He winks at me and puts on his megawatt smile.
“Wewon’t be having any fun tonight, Caleb. Besides, I’m too much woman for you to handle. I met one of the girls you were with last night, remember? You like them blonde, perky, and skinny. I am none of those things.”
He leans in a little closer and talks quietly. “Yes, but I wouldn’t have to worry about breaking you, would I?”
I laugh so loud I’m sure I’ve startled him. “Oh, that’s rich. You’re a good actor, I’ll give you that, buddy. Save it for tonight though, huh? I’m sure that line works great with your girls.” I give him a small push away and walk down the hall toward the elevator. I glance over my shoulder and see he is still watching me, and I add a small sway to my hips because I know he is watching. I stop in front of the elevator and, from the corner of my eye, I swear I see him adjust his pants.Oh, fuck me!Heat rushes to my core and I suppress a smile.
Stepping into the elevator, I will myself to calm down. I try thinking about anything else to make my urges disappear. I truly wish I didn’t have to get my hair and makeup done right now. I would give anything to be lying on my bed easing the pressure between my legs while I think of Caleb. I fan my face with my hand and step out into the lobby. I’m thankful no one knows the thoughts running through my mind.
The Uber is waiting for me, and I confirm the address for the salon. On the way, I receive a text from a random number and, after reading it, I can only assume it’s Caleb.
Unknown:Told you I’d get your number.
Rolling my eyes, I add him to my contacts as P.I.T.A. I type a response and smile. It’s going to be fun pushing his buttons.