Rosaleen balked at the thought. “No. The money he offered would really benefit the foundation.” Leave it to him to place her in a position she couldn’t get out of.
“Just remember, it’s only one date,” Rachel suggested.
“One too many,” she muttered. She shook her head.
“Are you ready to get things settled?” Ms. Smith appeared.
“Yes. What do I need to do?” Rosaleen asked, ignoring the tightness in her chest.
“We like to be the ones to help mediate the dates. It makes things easier.”
“Of course,” she said, relieved. He couldn’t plan some over the top event with a witness.
“We’ll be bringing your winner in to meet you.”
I actually know the bastard.
Following her to an office, she did her best to hide her irritation as he came into view.
“Rosaleen,” Ryan smiled slyly, clearly proud of himself.
“You know him?” Ms. Smith asked, glancing from one to the other.
“I used to date him,” she replied dryly.
“Are you okay with this arrangement?” The apprehension on Ms. Smith’s round face made her feel bad.
“It’ll be fine, Ms. Smith.”
Ryan delivered his I’m a nice guy smile.
“Well ... If you’re sure.”
“We’ll do a coffee date,” Rosaleen stated, taking control of the situation.
Ryan shook his head. “Dinner.”
“Lunch. Take it or leave it.”
“At least an hour-long lunch,” he countered.
“Fine,” she spoke through gritted teeth. “I get to pick the place.”
“When?” he asked.
“Sunday. I want to get this over with.”
He relented. “Fine.”
“Tomorrow at two o’clock at Alfie’s on Broadway.”
“What I have to say isn’t conducive to some casual dining eatery, Ros.” Ryan sighed.
“Sounds like a you problem. I’ve shared everything I wanted to. I can’t believe you did this.”
“It’s the only way I could get you to sit still and listen to me.”
“Or you could take the hint.”