Heartless: Episode 2

“At The Penthouse.”

“In The Huntley Hotel?” I wondered.

“You’re familiar with it?” he asked, his tone delightfully surprised.

“Of course.”

The Penthouse was one of my favorite restaurants to entertain in Santa Monica. It was eighteen stories up and had the most incredible view of the coastline on one side and the city on the other. Not to mention, the food and atmosphere were amazing.

“It’s beautiful there,” I added.

“It’s a date. I’ll pick you up at seven.”

I sucked in a quick breath. “Actually, I’ll just meet you there. You know I live only a few blocks away. It will just be easier.” After last night, I wasn’t ready for any more home-related expectations.

“Have it your way.” He didn’t fight me on it, which surprised me. “See you tonight.”

He ended the call.

Oh my gosh, I had just agreed to a real-life date with someone and not just any someone—him.

Please don’t break my heart. Please don’t break my heart, I silently prayed to the gods above, hoping like hell they were listening.

****

I stepped into the lobby of the hotel, my red dress inching higher with each stride. Grabbing the bottom of it, I gave it one final tug, willing it to stay put against my thighs. He came into view, and he looked incredible in navy blue suit pants, a lighter blue shirt and a matching navy tie. The man was simply stunning to look at, and boy did I enjoy looking.

Watching his face light up at the sight of me made me feel sexy and wanted—two things I hadn’t cared about in so long. As we walked toward each other, his right hand moved from behind his back, and a single long-stemmed white rose appeared.

“For you.” He handed it to me before bending down and sweeping me into his arms in

a tight hug. “You look beautiful.”

My cheeks warmed with the combination of being touched by him and by his compliment. “Thank you. You look very nice yourself.” I sniffed at the rose, loving that this was quickly becoming our thing.

We have a thing.

WE HAVE A THING!

Deep breaths, Elizabeth.

Daniel extended a hand toward the hotel elevator. “Shall we?”

I moved toward them, his hand resting firmly on my lower back.

We reached the eighteenth floor and stepped out into a plethora of candlelight.

A hostess immediately greeted us upon our exit. “Reservations?”

“Alexander, for two,” Daniel said.

She smiled. “Right this way, Mr. Alexander.”

We followed as she led us around the enormous bar and toward the part of the restaurant that faced the coastline. Although, in the dark, we couldn’t see it.

The table sat in the corner, away from other people, and I realized that Daniel had most likely requested that arrangement, so we could have some sense of privacy. I scooted into the comfortable bench seat, and Daniel sat across from me in a baby-blue plush chair.

I started to laugh.