Did I miss something? “Sorry?”
“You asked if I thought you were crazy. I don’t.”
Well, that was a relief. “I’m glad you don’t think so.”
“So, did you arrange this, Cash?”
The familiar tingle of my arms returned. Hearing her say my name ignited a desire deep within my body. Images of making love to her came into my mind. It always ended with her screaming my name, digging her nails into my back, and coming hard. I swallowed the lump in my throat. “I did.”
“Why?”
I sipped my wine and regained my confidence. “I wanted to have a conversation with you.”
“A conversation about what?”
“Anything. Everything.”
She finished her glass of wine then put it on the table. I automatically refilled it while I held her gaze. When I returned the bottle to the surface, I leaned back.
“Are you seeing anyone?” I asked.
“Just my guitar.”
Good answer. “You play the guitar as well?”
“Along with the drums.”
I raised an eyebrow, realizing the insane amount of skill she had. “You can play the guitar, the bass, the piano, and the drums?”
“And the bassoon,” she added. “But I’ll never use it in the band.” She laughed lightly at her own words.
I loved hearing the sound. It was pure music in my ears. “You’re a very accomplished woman.” I waited for her cheeks to redden. On cue, they did.
“Thank you.”
She was always gracious when it came to compliments, which I liked. She was very polite.
The orchestra warmed up their instruments, indicating the show was about to start. Our conversation fell silent as the lights dimmed. Illumination from the stage still sparkled in her eyes. I glanced at it discreetly, loving the glow on her face.
The play began. Normally, I would have enjoyed the show, being a fan of the arts, but I couldn’t concentrate on the stage. I was more interested in staring at my new muse, my new obsession. She was smart—wicked smart—beautiful, talented, and just a pleasure to be with. I hit the fucking jackpot.
When the play ended, the light returned to the theatre. Neither one of us moved, which I took as a good sign. If she wanted to get away from me, she would have bolted by now.
She looked at me, her stare unreadable.
“Did you enjoy it?” I asked.
“It was wonderful.”
You’re wonderful. “I liked it as well.”
People filed out of the auditorium, discussing the outstanding play. Their voices drifted to us, reminding me we needed to leave.
“Are you busy tomorrow night?”
Her body didn’t react, but a small explosion formed behind her eyes. “No.”
“Will you have dinner with me? I’d like to continue our conversation.”
She smiled. “A girl’s gotta eat.”
I chuckled. “I’ll feed you all you want.”
Damn, I shouldn’t have said that.
I was normally suave and confident, but she was cutting me off at every turn.
She didn’t react overtly, which I was thankful for.
I rose from my seat then extended my arm. She took it then left her seat. I was pleased when she didn’t pull her arm away. I escorted her down to the lobby, noting the faint smell of her perfume and the feel of her petite arm. When we reached the entrance, I led her outside, away from the crowd.
My limo was waiting and my driver opened the back door. “Can I take you home?”
She eyed the limo behind me. “My brother is an investor and he makes good money. But not that good.”
I smiled. “I have high profile clients.”
She still seemed suspicious.
“I would love to take you home.”
She looked over her shoulder. “I should wait for my friends. They’ll worry.”
“I could give them a ride as well.”
“No, thank you.” She dropped her arm, making me feel suddenly cold.
“I’ll pick you up tomorrow at seven.”
“You don’t know where I live.”
“Then tell me.” I put my hands in my pockets.
She tucked the loose strand of hair behind her ear then told me the address. I watched her intently, not bothering to be discreet at that point. I wanted this woman and I wanted that to be perfectly clear. I wanted her to come to my place tonight, but I could tell she would reject my offer. She was too classy for that. But I could be patient—for her.
“Thank you for the seat—I guess.”
“You’re welcome. Believe me, you had the better vantage point.”
“Well, good night, Cash.”
My hand moved to her waist and touched her just for a moment. I wanted some intimacy with her, something to make sure she wouldn’t forget me. Her muscles spasmed under my fingers, and I knew I accomplished my goal. I leaned toward her ear and my lips pressed against her earlobe. When she didn’t move away, it was another good sign. She took a deep breath, betraying her tension.
“A more beautiful woman I’ve never seen.” I pulled away and entered my limo. I didn’t look at her before my driver closed the door. But as soon as I was hidden behind the dark window, I stared at her blatantly, watching the redness burn her cheeks. I had this girl. And I wasn’t going to let go.
Chapter Seven
Prudence Clearwater
I was still in shock after Cash’s limo pulled away. Did that really just happen? He intervened and arranged the entire evening. To be honest, it was kinda creepy…but also really romantic. If it were some other guy, I may have just stormed off and left. But with Cash, there was nowhere else I’d rather be.
“Sorry you had to watch the play by yourself,” Gavin said when he approached me. “I would have switched with you if they let me.”
“I know,” I said. “Don’t worry about it.”
“Did you like it?” Desi asked.
I had a hard time paying attention. Cash’s gaze was glued to my face and the heat of his stare burned my skin. I desperately wanted to return the look but I was afraid to. Why? I have no idea. “It was great,” I lied.
“Ready to head home?” Mason asked. “We haven’t gone to bed before midnight in longer than I can remember.”
“Because we’re rock stars,” Gavin said. “We don’t need sleep.”