Stealing the Bride

A huge smile breaks out on his face, as radiant and precious as sunlight after a dark afternoon storm.

“But it’s going to take me a while to move everything, what with my job starting Monday. And my lease isn’t up until the end of next month.”

“That’s not a problem. I can hire movers to start as soon as possible, and your place can stay empty until the lease runs out.”

I shake my head. “No movers. I hate it when strangers paw though my things.” Then I run my index finger along his biceps. “But you can help me move the heavy stuff and flex your manly muscles.”

“Should I do it topless?” he asks with an easy grin.

“Goes without saying.”

“Deal. We move your stuff together. Both topless.”

I laugh. “We won’t get any packing done.”

“Welcome to the twenty-first century, Skittles. Equality for all.” He stares lasciviously at my chest, reaching for my breasts with splayed and wriggling fingers.

Laughing and shrieking, I duck and run. All the while wanting him to catch me and knowing that he’ll do just that.

Chapter Forty-One

Pascal

After a morning shower on Monday, I let my eyes roam over my collection of toiletries, sitting on the gorgeous marble double vanity in Court’s master bathroom. They look like they fit right in, but at the same time, it does feel slightly surreal. I’ve never, ever moved in with a guy before. I?

??ve lived with a couple, but they moved into my place, not vice versa. I clung to that because I wanted to keep my independence and a home of my own.

But it doesn’t make sense for Court give up his place for my apartment. It’s so much smaller and not as nice. And where would we put the grand piano?

Since we only had a day, I still have a lot of my stuff at my place. But I brought most of my clothes and all my toiletries because…priorities.

I apply some pink lipstick to finish my makeup and lean back. I thought giving up my space might make me feel anxious, like something’s missing in my life. But instead, it feels natural to share his space. I grin. Maybe it’s because I’m falling for him. I’ve never felt this intensely for any of my exes.

But enough sentiment. Today’s the first day at my new job, and I want to be on top of things.

I put on a beige scoop-neck top, purple skirt and nude pumps, then go downstairs. Court hands me a spoon. “Greek yogurt and fruit for you, and a bowl of cereal for me.”

I take it automatically, then give him a strange look. “How did you know I like Greek yogurt?”

“Because I peeked inside your fridge yesterday. You had ten of them.”

Huh. I thought he opened it to grab a beer, which, in my defense, he did. And then guzzled it down.

I devour the yogurt quickly, wanting to get an early start. Court also hands me my coffee in a tumbler. Smiling at his thoughtfulness, I give him a kiss. “You’re awfully domestic this morning.”

“Just like to be helpful. Have a great day. You’re going to kill it.”

Laughing, I hurry to the garage and start toward OWM. One more reason to move in: Court’s place is closer to the office than mine.

The drive is sweet, despite the crappy L.A. traffic. I already filled out the tax forms and other paperwork for new employees online so I could get started right away. Gavin hiring me is just the beginning. I want to prove myself as soon as possible. Thanks to my dad refusing to give me credit I deserve, I’m at least a year behind on my career track, even with the promotion Gavin gave me. I don’t know if I can make up for that, but I have to at least try.

When I walk into the office, the same sharply dressed receptionist with dark hair I saw before greets me. “Hello, Pascal. Welcome to OWM. I’m Sally. Here’s your temporary badge.”

“Thank you,” I say, putting it around my neck. Man, it feels so official—a new job, a new Pascal.

“After ten, the security people will be available to take your photo and make you a permanent one. If you can get it done before five, that will be fine. You’ll be reporting to Pete Monroe. His office is over there in that corner.” She gestures to my right, then lowers her voice. “He’s smart and super cute. But totally taken, darn it.”

I grin. It’s nice how’s she’s trying to warn me. “Thanks. But I’m taken, too.”