The Best Is Yet to Come: Novella Bonus for Her Best Match (The Best Girls Book 0)

by Tamie Dearen

  “You certainly have a choice.” He struggled to keep up with her rapid strides toward the waiting limousine. “You can mind your own business.”

  Her serene expression belied her words. “That’s exactly what I intend to do.”

  “What does that mean?” he asked, as warning bells chimed in his head.

  “It means just what I said. I’m going to take care of my own business. And in this particular case, it means finding you a wife. In fact, I’ve already got the ball rolling.”

  “Well, you can just put the stops on that ball. I don’t need your help. In fact, I may have a possible candidate.”

  “Who?” she asked, her brows knitted with suspicion.

  “Just a woman I know. We’ve been out once. I’m just considering the possibility.” He hoped his vague answer would satisfy his intimidating grandmother, halting her certain-to-be-disastrous plans.

  “She’s not the one,” Gram declared.

  “You don’t even know her,” he objected.

  “I can tell by the way you’re talking about her. She’s not the one.”

  “Gram, first you want me to find a wife. Then you shoot down the one I’m considering before you know anything about her.”

  “I wanted you to find a wife. I’ve been telling you to find a wife for the last thirty years. You had your chance. Now it’s my turn.”

  “Whom do you have in mind?”

  “No need for you to worry about it. I’m handling all the details.”

  “Gram, need I remind you I’m a grown man who runs a multi-billion-dollar company? I won’t tolerate your interference. And if you show up here with a woman who’s been promised I’m going to marry her, she’ll be in for a rude awakening. It’s not happening. In fact, I’m telling you right now, I won’t even go out on a date with her,” he said, bombing her with a dark scowl.

  The blithe smile on her face alarmed him despite the acquiescence in her words. “Yes dear.”

  “I mean it, Gram!”

  “Yes, dear. Of course, dear. But, I have a present for you.”

  His eyebrows flew up. She usually didn’t buy gifts since he invariably already owned everything he needed or wanted. “What is it?”

  She handed him a small box, complete with gift-wrap and a bow. “Thanks, Gram,” he said, planting a kiss on the top of her head. He quickly unwrapped the present, uncovering a small jewelry box. He lifted the lid to find a diamond ring with a large square center stone set within a ring of smaller diamonds.

  “It was mine. Your grandfather gave it to me as an anniversary ring the year you were born. He died shortly after that.” Her eyes misted. “I haven’t worn it for a while, and I want you to have it.”

  She held up her hand as he started to object. “Even if you don’t get married, I want you to have it. You can do what you like with it. Of course, I hope you’ll use it as an engagement ring, or have it remade into one of your choosing. But if not... You can make it into a tie-tack or whatever you like.”

  Steven wrapped his arm around her small shoulders. “Thank you, Gram. This really means a lot to me.”

  “Good.” She returned to her standard gruff tone. “You’re a good boy, Steven.”

  “I’m not a boy, Gram,” he said good-humoredly.

  “You may be a man to all those people who work at Gherring Inc., but you’ll always be my little Steven. And that’s why I know it’s not good for you to be alone.”

  He groaned, “Not again...”

  *****

  Gherring arrived at the Town Center Office Building at seven forty-five Friday morning. This was a game he played for his own amusement. Officially, the Gherring Inc. business day began at nine a.m. But Gherring enjoyed appearing a little early and lounging near the elevators to watch the employees arrive. As a result, the employees began to come earlier, in an attempt to beat their boss to work. So, Steven began gradually pushing up his arrival time, and the employees correspondingly arrived earlier as well. Yet, he knew when he was out of town the entire company reverted to their normal start time.

  It wasn’t much, but it provided a bit of distraction in a life that had become increasingly dull. He wondered if Gram wasn’t right, after all. He almost regretted he’d concentrated on business to the near-complete exclusion of his personal life. He couldn’t help feeling something was missing. And now, Gary, his only true friend, was getting married. He knew he would feel even more isolated after the wedding, despite Gary’s insistence nothing would change. And not only was Gary going to marry Katie Carson, but he was also planning to steal her away from Gherring Inc. Steven hoped he could influence her to stay.

  “Good morning, Ms. Carson,” he said.

  “Morning, Mr. Gherring. I’ve confirmed your appointments for today.”

  “Thank you, Ms. Carson. You’re efficient, as always. What do you and Gary have on the agenda for the weekend?”

  Her face became animated. “We’re working on addressing wedding invitations. At least I hope I can get Gary to help me. He’s constantly down at Climbing High. I swear he might as well sleep down there.”

  “I’m glad to know he’s putting in maximum effort to make our investment a success. But I never had any doubt.”

  “I’m looking forward to working there with him. Otherwise, I might never get to see him.”

  “So, about that... I’ve been thinking perhaps if I offered you a raise, you might be persuaded to stay here and find a new secretary for Gary. Obviously, you’re much more valuable in your position here—”

  “Mr. Gherring. I’m only staying here until after the wedding. We’ve been through this before.”

  “But, I’m prepared to offer a significant raise. How much would it take to convince you?”

  “Mr. Gherring, I’m not changing my mind. I’m not irreplaceable. There are plenty of qualified candidates. We have another round of interviews on Monday. If you’ll simply choose someone, I’ll have plenty of time to train them before January.”

  “They’re all simpering idiots.” He’d already thought this through and made up his mind.

  “They are not! I’ve even brought in people with business degrees who’re willing to work as your executive assistant to gain experience.”

  “I don’t want someone who simply wants to use this job as a stepping-stone.”

  “You’re so difficult to please. Most of the candidates were experienced executive assistants, and every single one was smart, probably smarter than I am.”

  “Experience isn’t everything. Personality is important. None of them were compatible with my personality.”

  “No one is compatible with your personality,” she snapped. At his stormy expression, her face paled. “I’m sorry, Mr. Gherring. I didn’t mean that.” She rubbed her furrowed forehead. “If you’ll simply have an open mind about Monday’s group of interviewees, I’m certain you’ll find your ideal secretary.”

  Gherring couldn’t help but wonder about the truth of her statement. Perhaps there was no one with whom he’d ever be truly compatible. But in his mind, he was applying her words to his yearning for love. Maybe he could be satisfied with a more civilized union, instead of a passion-filled marriage. Perhaps a marriage to Alicia Esparza, more of a business agreement, would be good enough. In fact, it was probably the best he could hope for, though the thought didn’t set well with him.

  “Not a secretary—a personal executive assistant. And what if I don’t like any of them?”

  “You will—you have to.” Her reply was firm and left no room for negotiation. “I have the resumes. Would you like to look over them today?”

  “No,” he said, with defiance still in his voice.

  Katie moaned her frustration before changing the subject. “Oh, about tomorrow night. You have the Black and White Charity Ball, remember?”

  “Yes, and you contacted Mr. Cooper about canceling the escort?”

  “Yes, I did that on Monday, as soon as you told me.” She hesitated. “So you’re going on
a second date with Ms. Esparza?” She couldn’t hide the curiosity in her voice.

  “Yes.” He refused to elaborate to sate her inquisitiveness.

  Katie remarked, “She’s very beautiful, but...”

  “But?”

  “It’s none of my business.”

  “You’re right. It isn’t.” At the hurt in her eyes, he regretted his harsh reply, but he made no move to apologize as he turned to stalk into his office. Perhaps he should hire a male executive assistant. Women were entirely too difficult to control.

  *****

  Everyone who was anyone in New York City attended the Black and White Ball. The event raised money to help families of police officers and firemen who were injured or killed on the job. It was a perfect opportunity to see and be seen. Although no campaign speeches were given, every candidate in the local races was present, and all were taking advantage of the opportunity to work the crowd and gain free publicity from the plethora of reporters at the fundraiser.

  Alicia Esparza was no exception. Gherring couldn’t help but admire her ability to attract and hold the rapt attention of the small audience surrounding her. He recognized the skill since he possessed it himself. Her evening gown was carefully chosen to be attractive, yet not overtly racy. Her ample assets were highlighted, but not openly displayed. She artlessly flicked a lock of her dark hair over her shoulder to join the thick shining mass. She didn’t cling to him, a trait he greatly appreciated. But when the dancing started, she arrived at his side.

  “Dance with me?” She pressed a chaste kiss to his cheek.

  “Certainly,” he said, sweeping her into a waltz on the as yet uncrowded dance floor. They moved together smoothly and flawlessly.

  “We fit together well,” she remarked.

  “You mean, on the dance floor?”

  “I mean we fit together. Everywhere.” She emphasized her point by pressing her body closer to his.

  He couldn’t ignore the pleasant sensation of her uninvited advances. She was soft in all the right places, and her eyes spoke an open invitation.

  “Have you been thinking about my idea?” she asked.

  “Not really,” he lied smoothly. He’d certainly been considering her proposal, but he had no intention of making a commitment. As an astute businessman, he knew not to tip his hand.

  “Tell me what your objections are, and I’ll change your mind,” she said, with the assurance of one who was accustomed to winning arguments.

  “First of all, there are too many possibilities in your offer. Which proposal are we discussing?”

  “Let’s start with the easy option. You’ve really got nothing to lose by agreeing to date me exclusively until after the election.”

  “But I do have something to lose. There’s my reputation to consider. I don’t do exclusive...”

  “So you’re worried you might lose your status as a player? Wouldn’t that be an improvement to your reputation?” She laughed.

  “Only if I cared about anyone’s opinion where that’s concerned. And I don’t. My reputation as a player protects me from unwanted complications. I value my freedom.”

  “But dating exclusively also protects you from unwanted advances,” she reasoned. “In fact, you’d be even safer.”

  “Perhaps… I would be safer from other women, but not from you.”

  “But you don’t need protection from me.”

  “Au contraire. You’ve already expressed an interest in marriage.”

  “Only as one of many acceptable options. Yes, I will need to settle down and get married to advance my career. But, it doesn’t have to happen with you.” She chewed on her lower lip, “My initial need is simply five weeks. I only mentioned the long-term option in case it was more to your liking.”

  “So you aren’t interested in marrying me?”

  “I didn’t say that.” She stifled a laugh. “I’d be a fool not to be interested. I had to at least make the offer. But, my main concern is my career, and I think this is a trait we have in common. Through the election, a short-term relationship would serve just as well as long-term.”

  “I think I know the answer to this... But, why me?”

  “Are you fishing for compliments?” she teased. “Seriously, though. It’s probably not for the reason you think. There are other handsome single men with money and status, but all of them have either been embroiled in messy divorces or break-ups or caught in embarrassing situations with drugs, alcohol, or some other type of scandal. Your reputation is unblemished. The only thing you’re guilty of is dating hundreds of different women, none of whom seem to be able to claim your behavior was unseemly.”

  “Interesting point,” he admitted. “So my reputation as a hermit has earned me this unforeseen offer.”

  “I wouldn’t call you a hermit,” she soothed. “I would say you’re... discriminating.”

  His hearty laugh drew a few curious stares. “So the question is, ‘why would I want to change now?’”

  The music changed, and Alicia used the opportunity to wriggle her body closer to his, moving her arms to link around his neck as they swayed in time to the music. Her perfume wafted upward, sweet and appealing. He could feel her heart pounding against him.”

  “Of course you told me you don’t need what I have to offer,” her breathy voice entreated. “But then again, you don’t know what you’re missing. Perhaps you might find I’m worth the small, temporary sacrifice of your freedom.”

  He was disappointed when he experienced only mild curiosity in response to her advances. He’d hoped he might find her irresistible and exciting. Perhaps it was because, like all the others, she was offering herself so freely. He longed for the thrill of the chase, the challenge of the fight, the exultation of winning.

  “You also don’t know what you’d be gaining. You might be disappointed.”

  She gazed at him with hooded eyes. “I highly doubt it. And I’m willing to risk it.”

  He heaved a heavy breath. “Listen, Alicia...”

  “Wait. I know when I haven’t made a good enough closing argument to win my case. Don’t make a decision yet. Okay, Judge Gherring?” Her eyes twinkled. “You’re being entirely too serious about this. Let’s just agree to one more date. I have a fundraiser event next Friday night. Are you available?”

  “I have to check my calendar. But, I don’t know—”

  “Steven, please! I’m not even upset you’re rejecting my not-so-subtle offer, although I think we’d have had a really good time. I’m not some innocent, insecure girl. Just don’t say no yet.”

  “I don’t think it’s a good idea for you to continue to pursue me if you need someone who’ll commit to you through the election. I just can’t guarantee that.”

  “What if I promise to look at other options? My campaign chairman believes this last week of speculating about our possible affiliation has helped me rise in the polls already. You could give me one more week. And who knows? You might even change your mind.”

  Steven didn’t really think he would change his mind. But on the other hand, maybe he needed to be realistic about his options. As a potential wife, Alicia was ideal. Intelligent. Attractive. Poised. Charismatic. And she had a very practical approach to their relationship—mutual benefit. With Alicia Esparza, he wouldn’t have to deal with a woman sobbing and crying about how he’d ruined her life and broken her heart. He chuckled to himself. In fact, if he ever actually fell for her, she would probably break his heart.

  “Okay,” he said. “I’ll give you one more date, and I won’t say no yet.”

  She squeezed her arms around his neck, nuzzling against his chest. “Judge Gherring, I think you’ve made a wise decision. Can we seal the agreement with a kiss?”

  “For the benefit of the photographers?” he asked.

  “Well, yes,” she admitted. “But for my personal benefit as well. Just one kiss?” She lifted her lips toward him, and he obligingly lowered his mouth to capture hers. Her kiss was warm, passionate, and full o
f unspoken promises. His body responded to her, despite his efforts to remain aloof. He pulled away before their embrace became more ardent.

  “That wasn’t too awful, was it?” She maintained her composure, even as her breath came in little pants. “But, I suppose you like to always be in control, right?”

  “Something tells me we have that in common.”

  “Yes, I suppose that’s true. But I think it would be an interesting fight to determine the winner. Don’t you?”

  Steven didn’t answer, instead regarding the cameras flashing in their direction. “I think you have your publicity in the bag. I hope you get the desired boost to your ranking. It might just backfire on you, you know.”

  She chuckled. “I don’t think so. I know how to play the press. Now, if you dump me, I can always play the damsel in distress.”

  “But if they really knew you, they’d never fall for that.”

  She laughed, a melodic and happy tune. “Steven, I like you more and more. I sincerely hope our relationship extends beyond our next date.”

  Chapter Three

  Gherring ignored the stack of resumes Katie placed on his desk when he arrived at the office Monday morning. He had bigger problems.

  “What do you mean you don’t have time to travel to Germany, Henri? What pressing engagement is preventing you from attending to business?” His voice was dripping with sarcasm.

  The handsome Frenchman regarded him with open disdain before answering in heavily accented English, “I will not listen while you talk down to me. I have the matter under control. There is no need to travel to Germany to close the deal. I have already talked extensively with their CEO. She will not back out, I assure you.”

  The blood vessels were pulsing in Gherring’s forehead. He rubbed it, wishing for some ibuprofen.

  “Henri, sleeping with the CEO does not count as having the matter under control. She called me yesterday. Extremely upset! It seems she thought you were interested in a long-term relationship.”

  His face paled. “Mais, non! I never said such a thing.”