by Calinda B
“Please, call me Logan. Mr. James sounds much too formal for me.” He watched as a small smile lifted the corners of her beautiful, plump lips.
“All right, Logan. You may call me Drew.” She leaned forward slightly. “So, what is it you do?”
“I’m a wide receiver for the Knights football team. Do you watch sports?” He leaned in a little as well.
“No, I can’t say that I do. Well, other than Polo and tennis.” Her mouth turned down.
Logan couldn’t believe this beautiful woman was having dinner with him. Every move she made showed how refined and proper she was. He felt like a complete oaf sitting across from her.
He was relieved when he saw the lobster was just the tail, already split. He watched her carefully to see which fork she used. Why did fancy places think they needed forks for everything? He took a deep breath and told himself to calm the hell down.
She smiled as she reached for the fork with three long tines, daintily pulled a piece of the lobster out of its shell, and dipped it into the dish of melted butter.
Okay, there you go. See, it’s not so hard. Picking up his matching fork, he pulled a piece of his lobster out and followed her lead. As soon as the meat hit his tongue, he almost moaned aloud. Wow, this is the best lobster I’ve ever tasted. Closing his eyes, he savored the flavor as it flowed over his tongue. When he opened his eyes, she was watching him, eyes wide and head tilted.
“The chef here makes the best lobster in New York. Whenever he runs this special, I order it. What do you think?”
“It’s incredible. I don’t think I’ve ever had lobster this good before.” He gazed at her; her smile didn’t reach her eyes. She appeared guarded and cautious. “So, what do you do for a living?” Her expression clouded for just a few seconds before she regained her composure. He wondered if she even realized it.
“Well, I make money, spend money, and pretty much do whatever I feel like doing. Nothing interesting.” She shrugged.
“So, you don’t do anything interesting? How do you invest your money? You must do okay for yourself.”
“I have a financial advisor who invests it for me. I don’t bother with the details. I could give you his name, if you like.” She tilted her head yet again.
He watched her, waiting for her to go on. She picked up her fork and took another bite of lobster.
“Any brothers or sisters?”
She set her fork down and glanced at him as her eyes narrowed. “Why the interest in my life? We’ve just met, and I don’t like telling people my personal business.” She crossed her arms over her chest, her mouth set in a thin line.
He placed his fork down. “Look, I’m sorry I upset you. I’m just trying to make conversation and get to know you better. I’ll back off.” He placed his hands on the table before glancing back at her. “Look, if you want, I can go back to the other table.”
He watched her eyes, as an array of emotions seemed to darken them for a moment. Finally, she leaned forward and found his eyes again. “No, I’m sorry. I’m not used to people talking to me because they are interested in me. I’ve grown up with money. Most people find me a bit overwhelming and tend to avoid me.”
“Why would someone find you overwhelming?” He noticed her smile; this time it reached her eyes. “Did I amuse you with something I said?”
“You’re relentless with your questions, aren’t you? Do you realize there has been no part of your conversation that has not had a question in it?” She took another bite, never taking her eyes off his.
“Uh, no. I didn’t.” His gaze moved to her lips as she dabbed them with her napkin. Heat spread through his stomach. “I’ll try to be a bit more careful from now on.”
6
Drew couldn’t believe her eyes when he walked right to her table, sat down, and introduced himself, all without asking if it was all right. No one had ever been that forward with her before. She found it and him rather interesting. When he was walking toward her, she took in the way he moved. He didn’t have the practiced walk of a lawyer or the swagger of a man born to money. He seemed laid back but confident in the way he carried himself.
She liked the rich timbre of his voice when he spoke. “I hope this isn’t a stupid question, but what is a wide receiver? I don’t know what that means since I know nothing about the Knights,” she commented with an air of nonchalance.
His eyes sparkled. “My position is an offensive position, which means I’m on the field when we have the ball. It’s an important position, and means I’m one of the fastest players on the team. I’m the guy that the man throwing the ball tries to get it to, so I can hopefully run it in for a touchdown.”
“Oh, you play that game where the men are always throwing each other down with that funny-shaped ball.” Now, she sounded stupid to herself. One of the nannies she had as a child watched the silly game on TV and would make her sit quietly if her team was playing. It always annoyed her to be subjected to the game. She had found it brutal and didn’t understand it.
“I guess it could look that way to someone who doesn’t understand what we’re doing. There’s a lot of time, work, and training that goes into the plays for the offense, as well as the defensive side. I could teach you a little about it, if you like.”
She found she liked the way he became excited when speaking of his job, his eyes wide and his hands moving, as if to show her what he was talking about. “Maybe. But we haven’t even gotten through dinner yet, so we don’t know each other very well.”
“True. But, I’m hoping you’ll agree to go out with me, and maybe you’ll even go to a game.”
She laughed. “I don’t see myself sitting outside in the sun watching this game of yours. I’m not much into crowds.”
“I could get you into the VIP room for a game. It’s where the player’s families and friends watch. It’s air-conditioned and enclosed, so you don’t hear the crowds, and you’re not exposed to the elements.”
She sat back and studied his face. He seemed extremely intelligent and very determined to get her to agree to see him again. “Maybe. Let me think about it.”
“I’m sorry if I’m overstepping. Is that man you were with last night your boyfriend?”
“No. I only saw him a time or two, and things aren’t working out. I won’t be going out with him again.” She glanced down and watched him out of the corner of her eye.
His jaw clenched and a look darkened his features. “Did he hurt you in some way?”
“No, he was extremely rude to me. It won’t happen again, trust me.”
“I don’t like men who treat women like that.” He reached over and took her hand in his.
Looking down at their hands, she marveled at how large his hand was compared to hers. It was rough but strong, warm and gentle at the same time. So unlike the soft, manicured hands of most the men she’d ever known. She slid her hand out from under his. “As I mentioned before, it won’t happen again.”
The smile that spread over his face showed both of his dimples, and Drew felt the same rush she’d felt last night when their eyes had met. These were emotions she certainly wasn’t used to feeling.
Drew arched her brow and smiled when Logan’s gaze finally met hers again. There was something about him that intrigued her, and that in itself bothered her. She knew nothing about this man who played football, but she found herself wanting to know more. She wondered what those rough hands would feel like caressing her. Whoa. Slow down woman. It wasn’t like her to have such thoughts.
Stawcee appeared at the table. “May I get you anything? More drinks?”
“I’d like another.” She glanced at Logan.
“Just some water, please. My compliments to the chef. This is the best lobster I think I’ve ever had.” A smile played over the corners of his mouth.
“Thank you, sir. I’ll let him know. I’ll bring those drinks right back.”
He puzzled her. He had a kindness about him, and he appeared genuine, not fake like most of the pe
ople she knew. “Where do you come from?” She set her fork down and took a sip of her drink.
“Oh, I see how it is.” His eyes danced as another sexy smile lifted his lips. “I come from Texas, originally. I grew up dirt poor and spent most of my time with my grandmother. My mother worked hard to try to take care of us, which meant long hours away from home, but my grandmother is the one I knew the best. I’ve had to work my ass off my entire life to get where I am today, but I wouldn’t change a thing. I think the hard work, and the values my grandmother instilled in me, are what made me who I am.”
“And who are you Logan?” She cocked her head, keeping her eyes focused on his. She waited for him to look down or change the subject. Most men, when she watched them intently, wouldn’t keep eye contact with her.
“I’m me. An honest, trustworthy, loyal man. Who just so happens to be a wide receiver for the Knights.” He winked as his lips turned up into a dimple-showing grin.
Drew sat back when she realized her eyes had been drawn to his lips. She dabbed her mouth while she collected herself. “You are very blunt, aren’t you? It’s rather refreshing.” She smiled as Stawcee appeared, placed a new drink in front of her, and set Logan’s water beside his plate before removing their empty glasses. “Thank you.”
“You’re welcome, Ms. Taylor. Will there be anything else?”
“No, unless you want something, Logan?”
“Nope, I’m good.” He waited for Stawcee to be out of earshot. “I don’t think of myself as blunt, I think of myself as honest. I’m pretty much an open book. What you see is what you get. Now that I’ve told you about myself, will you tell me a bit about you?”
“You honestly don’t know who I am?” She found it rather amusing that he hadn’t gone home and researched her on the Internet.
“I know your name is Drew Taylor. I know you have money or you wouldn’t be here. I don’t know what you do or how you got your money. I don’t know if you have a family or where you came from.” He pulled his lower lip between his teeth, never taking his eyes off hers.
She was surprised when he put it that way. Most people didn’t care about anything other than the fact that she had money. Smiling, she sat back. “Let me see. I have a mother, who told me I have always commanded attention because of my beauty. And that I always carry myself in a very professional and authoritative manner. I was born to money, so I have never known what it’s like to want for anything. I find myself rather bored most of the time.”
His raised his brows. “Excuse me?”
“I get bored rather easily. You see, when you grow up with money, most people kiss your ass and treat you like you are someone to be afraid of.” She rolled her eyes. “I’m such a brat.” She giggled. “I have a father I never see. My mother is always too busy to even talk to me. My grandparents live in England now. No brothers or sisters. I am the proverbial, spoiled, only child.” She shrugged. “Boring.”
“I don’t think anything about you could ever be boring.”
Drew laughed. “I didn’t say I was boring, I said my life was boring.”
“It doesn’t sound boring to me.” He chuckled and it sent shivers down her spine. “I’ll ask again. Would you like to go out sometime? I really would like to get to know you better.”
She rolled her eyes. “I’m not sure if I’m ready to date. I’m going to be busy for the next few weeks.” She watched as his smile faded from his face.
“Okay, I understand.” He picked up his fork and took another bite of the lobster. He glanced up and smiled at her but didn’t ask her any more questions.
“Logan, I’m afraid you misunderstood me.” She reached to touch his hand. “I’m not saying I would never go out with you. I don’t want to rush into anything.”
He narrowed his eyes. “You said no, I get it. You don’t have to worry about it.” Glancing at Stawcee, he motioned to the table where Tim and Eric were sitting. “Bring the check to that table, please.”
“Yes, sir.” Stawcee looked nervously at Drew before she hurried back to the bar for the check.
“Thanks for dinner, Ms. Taylor. I hope you have a good evening.” Logan pushed back his chair, nodded, and walked back to the other table without looking back.
Drew narrowed her eyes and watched as he pulled a chair out that would put his back to her. She didn’t understand the feelings she was having; she felt upset and sad. She found herself wanting to go over to speak to him and clarify what she’d meant. She started to push back her chair when she noticed Scott step off the elevator. Smoothing her dress, she dropped her eyes to ready herself for her show. She was shocked he had dared to show himself so soon. When she looked up, the same sinister look flashed over his face when he saw her.
Realizing she wasn’t ready for the display about to happen, Drew stood and snatched her purse off the chair and hurried towards the powder room, hoping Sergio would do his job and prevent him from coming after her. She slid inside, chancing a glance back to see him stopped in front of Sergio, who was backing him into the elevator. Oh God, that’s not going to sit with him very well. Maybe everyone was right about staying away from this job.
7
Logan watched as Scott stepped off the elevator. Disdain coursed through his body just laying eyes on him. Every part of him ached to turn around and rush to Drew’s side, to protect her from the creep that was searching for her. What the hell was that look that crossed his face? Logan didn’t like it or the feeling he got from him. Just as he was about to rise from his chair, he saw Sergio place his hand on Scott’s arm and direct him back to the elevator.
Tim leaned forward. “What the fuck was that about?” He nodded toward the elevator. “You looked like you were ready to stand up and cold cock him.”
“He was a jackass to Drew. I can’t stand men like that. Does she look all right?” Logan’s jaw hurt from grinding his teeth.
“She’s not there. She went in the direction of the ladies’ room when he got off the elevator. What a dick. What did he do to her?”
“I didn’t ask.” He raked his hand through his hair. “Shit, I don’t think she should leave alone. That dick could be waiting outside for her.”
“She’s a big girl. Maybe you should wait and see what she wants. What happened at the table?”
Logan raised a brow.
Tim threw his hands up and sat back. “I was just asking.” He shoved his chair back and stood. “I’m out of here. You know where I’ll be if you decide to change your mind.” Tim sauntered off toward the elevator, clearly looking forward to the girls he may find.
Eric shrugged his shoulders when Logan glanced his way. “I think he’s heading out to find some action. He said he was getting bored. I’m thinking about going to find me a little something. You want to come along?”
“Nope. Can I ask you something?”
“Sure. Ask away.” Eric relaxed back in the chair and folded his arms over his chest.
“You have money now, you’re a good looking guy, and I’m sure you could have any woman you wanted. Hell, they throw themselves at you all the time. You and him both.” He motioned at Tim’s retreating back. “Why the hell do you guys frequent those places?”
Eric laughed. “That’s easy man. I don’t want any attachments right now. I go find a woman I can pay to do whatever I want with no apologies, no expectations, and no strings. You should try it sometime.”
“No thanks. I don’t look at women as toys. I want a relationship, someone who loves me and who I love in return.”
“Who the hell wants a serious relationship at our age? You should be having fun and messing around.” Eric slapped his shoulder. “I’m going before someone grabs that sweet, young thing I like so much.”
Logan shook his head. “Yeah, you guys might get something messing around that you aren’t bargaining for. Go have your so-called fun. I’ll catch you tomorrow.”
“Whatever, James.” Eric shook his head. “See ya.”
Logan watched his teammate s
aunter to the elevator. He raised a brow as he saw a lot of the women turn their heads, trying to catch his attention. From the way Eric was exaggerating his walk, he figured he knew the attention he was receiving. He shook his head again.
“Mr. James, I’m so sorry it took so long to bring your check. Are you sure you wouldn’t like some dessert to take home?”
Logan glanced up at her. “No dessert, thank you.” Pulling out his wallet, he fished out some bills. “Here you go. Keep the change.”
“Thank you, Mr. James. I hope you enjoy the rest of your evening.”
Pushing his chair back, he stood and stepped to move around the table, running into Drew and almost knocking her down. He gently grabbed her arm. “I’m so very sorry. Are you all right?” Looking down into her eyes, he felt something zing through his body. His eyes looked down at her full, luscious lips and lingered there until she tugged her arm and cleared her throat.
“I’m fine. It was completely my fault. I wasn’t watching where I was going.”
“I’ll have to remember to be more careful when stepping away from the table.” Logan couldn’t believe the change of events in such a short time. “I’m sure he won’t be stupid enough to wait outside for you.” He reassured her. “He doesn’t know where you live, does he?”
Drew shook her head. “He’s never been to my place. Even if he did, he couldn’t get onto my property. I have locked gates and a security system in place.” She turned to face him.
“Why don’t you let me walk you out? I could give you a ride home, if you like?” He raised a brow, cocking his head.
“I would appreciate you escorting me downstairs. I actually already called for my limo.” She slid her arm through his. “I could give you a ride home, if you like.”
“I wouldn’t want to put you out.” He placed his hand over hers. “But if you don’t mind dropping me by my place, I’d appreciate it. Although, I must let you know, I live outside the city.”