Bad Boy Rich

I automatically dial his number; my breath hitched as I wait excitedly to hear his voice on the other end. The sounds of his hello, velvet soft with a hint of cheekiness—only confirms how much I missed him. With a small struggle, I hold back my girlish giggles.

“They’re beautiful, every single bunch.”

“You’re beautiful.”

“You’re not so bad yourself, Rich. So, question. Why no red?”

“I hate red roses. My mother loves them. Speaking of which, if you’re done processing. Please join me for dinner tonight. Mother is turning the big six-oh and making her closest acquaintances join her.”

“You’re not an acquaintance,” I scold him, gently. “I’m sure she wants her family there. Her one and only son.”

“I have a sister, you know. She lives in…I think somewhere in the Midwest.”

Another piece of information that he chose to withhold like it wasn’t important. Family—is always important.

“What do you mean you have a sister and she lives somewhere in the Midwest? How do you not know this information?”

“Because I don’t care.”

“Wesley, stop…okay, so dinner. How formal are we talking? I’m really tired and jetlagged.”

“Open your closet and see for yourself.”

I jump up with a sudden burst of energy, opening the closet to a long black dress hanging inside. It’s gorgeous; formal yet sexy at the same time. Draping neckline—maybe too low—and a sheer skirt that trained along the ground.

“I’ll pick you up at six?”

“Sure, but I’m warning you, I may fall asleep and never wake up again.”

Wesley laughs, telling me to grab some coffee because I won’t get any sleep tonight at his place. He missed me, and gave me a long list of demands in the bedroom, all of which I agreed to with enthusiasm.

“Oh, before you go, I have some good news. Well, semi good news.”

“Does it involve you shaving your beard that could house a swarm of bees?”

“You’re not a fan of my b

eard?” he questions, lightheartedly, “I was going for the Hagrid look. A few more weeks and I think I’ll get there.”

“No.” I grin, half believing him. “You are not growing that beard. It’s like me growing a full bush.”

“What if I told you I like full bushes?”

“Then I would tell you you’re a freak and maybe need to find yourself some old European lady because that ain’t never happening with me.”

“Fine.” I could hear him smiling over the phone. “So the news…”

“Yes, your exciting news?”

“Charlie has worked her magic. It look’s like we’ll be able to sue the company that stole our designs. In fact, the publicity will be good.”

“Oh wow! That is good news. Emerson hadn’t mentioned anything.”

I couldn’t blame her. The last week had been crazy and my drama only added to that craziness.

“Still early days but it’s something,” he says, happily. “Okay, you need to get your ass ready because I’m coming for you soon.”

I giggle, quick to point out the obvious. “I’m not into anal but glad to know you’re coming regardless.”