From Friend to Fake Fiancé

Not that Mac wanted that settled-down family lifestyle. The whole marriage thing was working for Braden and Zara, but Mac was just fine focusing on work, partying when he could and hooking up with women who were on the same playing field as he was. Life was good, so why mess it up?

Mac tugged on Jenna’s hand to keep her moving. “Maybe going out tonight would be the best option,” he told her. “That way Nathan can see us together as well and pass along to his best man that you’re officially off the market and not interested in a reunion  .”

Jenna shoved her sunglasses up onto her head, pushing her dark strands back from her face. “Good idea. I’ll let Amy know. You’re too good to me, Mac.”

With a laugh, he shook his head. “Nah. Remember, if you mess this act up, I get to cash in a favor at any time.”

Jenna playfully nudged his side with her elbow. “I’m pulling this whole thing off beautifully so far, which means I’ll get another favor. Don’t get so cocky.”

Up ahead, Mac caught sight of Martin talking with Nathan. Perfect opportunity to work this lover’s angle and shove it right into Martin’s face. Mac didn’t just want to convince the guy that Jenna had moved on, Mac wanted to torture the man with what he’d let go.

“You ready to put those acting skills to the test again?” he asked, nodding straight ahead.

Her gaze followed his and she drew in a deep breath. “I’d rather just avoid him.”

“You’re not a coward.”

Before she could protest further, he trudged forward. He told her a joke to get her laughing. Mission accomplished. Jenna’s rich laughter had Martin’s head whipping around in no time.

Game on, you sorry bastard.

Nathan waved with a smile, but his eyes were darting between Martin, Jenna and Mac. Mac figured he’d have to break the tension since he was the one who was adamant about this little meeting.

“Hey, Nathan.” Mac greeted the man as if he’d known him forever. In actuality, he’d met him once when he and Amy had come to visit Jenna in Miami. “Jenna just told me we’ll be going out tonight. Looking forward to it.”

“Amy wasn’t sure when you guys were free,” Nathan replied. “I’ll be sure to let her know. I hear congratulations are in order for the two of you, as well?”

Mac wrapped his arm around Jenna, pulling her closer to his side, ignoring the kick of just how comfortable he was playing the role of doting fiancé.

“Thanks. We didn’t want to make a big deal of anything, since this is your week and I actually just surprised Jenna.”

“Where’s the ring?” Martin asked, his tone mocking, his gaze narrowed.

Without missing a beat, Jenna replied, “Mac is flying me to his favorite jeweler in Italy after the ceremony Saturday so I can choose the one I want.”

Mac mentally high-fived her quick, clever response. She’d stiffened slightly against him, but she’d managed to squelch her nerves and fire back. Martin’s expression was priceless and his silence was another win for Mac. Maybe Jenna could handle this role-playing just fine. His hand slipped to the curve of her hip. When he squeezed her there, she jumped slightly and attempted to shift. Mac held her right where he wanted her. Damn, those curves beneath his hand sent his mind into overdrive.

“If you’ll excuse us, we were on our way back to our room. Haven’t had enough alone time with my girl.” Mac returned Martin’s glare with a mocking wink before nodding to Nathan. “See you tonight.”

Completely dismissing Martin, Mac guided Jenna back along a path that would take them toward the bungalows nestled on the water.

“Nice job,” he muttered when they were far enough away. “I actually do have a jeweler in Italy.”

“Where I’m sure your female entourage is well supplied,” she tossed back.

Was that a hint of...jealousy? Interesting. Definitely useful information.

“It’s okay, babe. I’ll make it up to you. Do you prefer diamonds or emeralds? My jeweler made this gorgeous diamond necklace for me once. Personally, I think rubies because you get fired up sometimes and—”

Jenna jerked from his grasp. “This isn’t real so don’t lump me with your collection of arm candy.”

Mac didn’t even get to defend himself before she stomped off toward the bungalow. He followed her because if they were having a lover’s spat in public, he sure as hell planned on making up in private.