CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO
DREW
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We walk into SoHo Stablesand the server, who knows me, leads me to my regular table.
“Did you book this advance?You need a booking a month out.”Gemma glances at me over her shoulder.
“Sure.”I place my hand in the small of her back and guide her into the chair.
Thanking the server, I pick up the menu, already knowing what I want.The same filet mignon with a French bearnaise sauce I choose almost every time.
I lower it and watch Gemma as she licks her lips.
My pants tighten.
Again.
She looks stunning in a navy dress that hugs her curves and a stylish black blazer.Her silky hair is tucked behind her ears, which are adorned with diamonds.
I think about the necklace sitting in my safe at home, and how it belongs to her.What the fuck do I need with a diamond necklace?I admit to myself that I purchased it for her.Gemma makes me confess, even to myself, things I am not willing to accept.
That she captured my attention the moment I met her.
That I wanted to fuck her three seconds later.
That since then, right up to this very moment, she has become more than a sexual challenge.I care about her.Feelings that have no place in this relationship keep dominating my decisions.
Which is why I need Gemma to take the money and walk out of my life.
Open Leaf is being pulled to pieces.
Oh yeah, then why did you exclude the Manhattan branch?
I grimace and glance at the table next to us, seeking distraction, and wouldn’t you know it, in he walks.
Damon.
My stepbrother.
“Fancy seeing you here.”Damon grins as he approaches our table.
I glance at Gemma, who is staring between us as she sips her water, clearly working out we’re related given how similar we look.
“Get your own regular lunch place.”I stand and shake his hand.“Gemma, this is my stepbrother, Damon.”
I watch his greedy eyes and fight the urge to tell him she belongs to me.