One Beautiful Promise (Very Irresistible Bachelors 4)

“I didn’t know you have company cars,” I said.

“I don’t use them often, because of traffic. Hunter uses them sometimes. Mostly, we keep them for clients who require royal treatment when we have a meeting.”

“I totally get it. I feel like royalty,” I said, sliding lower on the leather seat.

“So, Tess..., you were saying earlier about my girl being head over heels for me?” Cole asked this so nonchalantly that I couldn’t help but laugh. But I did glance at Tess with a raised eyebrow so she didn’t accidentally spill the beans again.

“My lips are sealed,” Tess said confidently.

“So are mine,” Isabelle declared, as if suspecting Cole might focus on her next.

He chuckled, turning to look at the three of us briefly.

We dropped off Isabelle first and then Tess. Cole slid next to me on the back seat after that. I leaned my head on his shoulder. I drummed my fingers on his chest, undoing the top button of his shirt and sliding my hand in there.

“I love you,” I whispered in his ear. Okay, so this wasn’t the best time, but I just wanted to tell him, and I didn’t want to wait one minute longer. “I know the girls ratted me out, but I wanted for you to hear it from me too.”

“Baby....” He jerked his head back a little until we had eye contact before cupping the back of my head. “You mean it? Because I love you with all I have, and I didn’t know if telling you was a good idea.”

I swallowed hard. “I’m afraid of how much I love you, but I do.”

He pressed his lips against my forehead, and I felt them curl in a smile. “Fuck, baby. I can’t wait for us to be alone.”

We were both whispering, but even so... it was better to just wait. A few minutes later, the car pulled in front of Cole’s building, and we both practically ran to his door. Once inside, he cupped my face.

“Say it again.”

“I love you, Cole Winchester. I love you.”

“Babe, I love you too. What am I going to do with you?”

I had no idea how he was doing it, but I could swear some of my fears just kept melting at seeing the pure joy in his eyes, feeling his hands on my hips.

“I’m at your mercy, Mr. Winchester. Do your very best.”

Chapter Twenty-Three

Laney

“This is incredible,” I murmured when we entered the ballroom, taking it all in. The high ceiling with sophisticated golden lighting devices was just exquisite, as were the small opera-style balconies full of tables. A dozen more tables were spread around the room, circling the dance floor.

“Thanks,” Cole said.

I’d only ever seen these types of events in movies or a TV series. Despite its grandeur and elegance, the room wasn’t intimidating at all. I felt welcome.

Tess waved at us from the family table next to the stage. She was alone for now. We headed toward them but stopped a few times on the way for Cole to greet guests and introduce me. I loved being on his arm and getting to know his world a little better, being part of it.

“How did you come up with the idea for these events? They’re so grand. You even have car service and valets, and your family is so down-to-earth. At least, from what I’ve seen.”

“Hunter and I rub elbows with a lot of the guests in our business, so we’ve learned what makes them tick. Or in this case, part with their money for charity. We start by donating a huge amount, and then they follow suit.”

“That’s smart,” I said as we reached the Winchester table.

“You look gorgeous, Laney,” Tess exclaimed.

I motioned for her to rise from the table. “I want to see your dress properly.”

She stood, twirling once, and I nodded appreciatively. Tess was absolutely radiant in a bright red gown with a heart-shaped cut. She seemed to have more blonde strands than before. Her hair was styled in elegant waves.