Save Me, Sinners

“Yes, and a support system,” he says, “she’ll know that she’s not at the mercy of a guy like George. And she can get all the care she needs.”

I snuggle close to him. “I knew deep down you were the man for me,” I say. I breathe in his scent, filling my nose with him, and let out a sigh of relief. “Thank you.”

“Thank you for making my life complete,” he answers softly, and I feel ready to take on the world.

A HARD MAN: SAVING DAVID — Never before published!

Copyright © 2017 by Jess Bentley

All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means, including information storage and retrieval systems, without written permission from the author, except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.

Chapter 77

Carrie

I straighten my dress for what feels like the hundredth time since I arrived at the venue. A tingle runs up my spine as I take it all in: the glamor, the riches and the twinkling lights surrounding us.

What am I even doing here?

Max’s hand touches the small of my back, guiding me toward our table.

“Every damn gala, I see the same old faces,” he says under his breath. “Nothing ever changes in LA.”

I look around to try and share in Max’s disapproval but all I see are faces from magazine covers.

“Look, there’s Christopher Alexander,” I point discreetly as I sit down at the table.

“Don’t point, sweetheart,” Max cautions, then continues. “That poor old bastard. I bet he waits all year long for this day.”

“Well, he is doing noble work. Why shouldn’t he?” I wonder aloud.

“Sending books to needy kids?” Max snorts. “They need clothes, food, not books. No kid likes reading books.”

“That’s not true! I loved reading when I was a child.”

“You, sweetheart, are an exception.” He reaches out and kisses my hand. I feel those tingles again. He is so charming and the last two months with him in my life have been absolute bliss.

“Stop it! You’re making me blush,” I laugh. Max always makes me laugh. A year ago, I couldn’t even imagine that I would meet a perfect gentleman like him. Someone who makes me laugh, who spoils me and someone who opens a whole new world for me.

Most of all, I still can’t believe that I’m dating my boss.

“Max Jefferson. I’m glad you could take time out of your busy schedule to be a part of our little shindig here,” Christopher Alexander says, clasping Max’s hand.

“I wouldn’t miss it for the world, Chris,” Max smiles. “This is Carrie.”

“Mr. Alexander. So nice to meet you,” I off

er. My voice trembles.

“Nice to meet you too, young lady,” Christopher answers, his tone grandfatherly.

“Carrie, here, is one of the brightest young talents at our magazine.” Max gleams with pride and looks at me, expecting me to speak. I gulp nervously and clear my throat.

“Mr. Alexander. I'm a huge fan. I've read all your books, some even twice. It's an honor to meet you, sir.” Don’t fangirl, Carrie!

“Thank you, my dear. It's always nice to receive compliments from my fans.” Shit. Too late.