“Aww.” Cameron gave her the ultimate look of regret. “Well then, I suppose you shouldn’t keep her waiting any longer.”
Misha laughed. “If I run into you again tonight, I promise I’ll share a drink with you, no questions asked.”
“I’m going to hold you to that.”
“Fair enough.” Misha took hold of the wine. “Goodnight.”
Cameron lifted his Martini up to her. “Goodnight, Misha.”
She pivoted, walked away from the bar and Cameron’s deadly charm, conscious of every step in her heeled boots. Was he watching her leave? She refused to turn around and satisfy her curiosity. Misha made her way to the elevator, pushed the button to bring the lift down to the lobby then reached into her back pocket and cursed.
My phone!
Misha turned around, took a step and yelped when she ran right into Cameron. She instinctively brought her hand to his chest, disorientated less by the unexpected contact and more by the feel of his hard body pressed close to hers.
“Whoa.” Cameron took hold of her arm, steadying her with one hand.
“You startled me.” Misha hurriedly moved her hand off him. Her breath hitched in her throat as his fingers pressed into her flesh. Disturbed by her atypical physical reaction to a man touching her, Misha fought back the urge to wrench her arm from his grasp. She deliberately kept her eyes on his face, an outward show that she was nonplussed by his touch.
“I’m sorry. I wanted to catch you before you got on the elevator.” He released her and held up her cell. “Looking for this?”
“Yes.” Misha took the device from Cameron, glad that he’d stepped somewhat out of her personal space. “Thank you.”
“No problem.” Cameron grinned. “You do realise what this means?”
She did, but frowned as if she had no clue what he was talking about. “I have no idea.”
Cameron lifted an eyebrow as the elevator dinged behind them. “You are a terrible little liar. I know you remember your promise and you literally ran right into me.”
Misha shook her head with an amused smile. “Do you always take things so literally?”
“Whenever I can. It’s the best way to cut down on confusion.”
“I was half joking when I said I’d have a drink with you if I ran into you again tonight.” Misha briefly averted her eyes from Cameron as the elevator doors closed behind her.
“I wasn’t.” Cameron cocked his head to the side. “Are you seriously getting ready to break your promise to me, Misha?”
A curl of heat wound around her body as she stared up into his dreamy eyes, momentarily at a loss for words.
Electric.
His gaze upon her was electric.
Cameron took a step closer to her. “What is it about having one drink with me that makes you so skittish?”
Misha tightened her grip on the bottle of wine as a million unconventional reasons to be skittish popped into her mind. “You’re a judge for Celeb Chef. I’m sure having a drink with a contestant breaks some competition bylaw.”
“No law that I’m aware of… And besides, who’s going to tell?”
Misha ran her fingertip over the wine label. “Someone from the show might see us.”
“I’ve got a solution to that.”
Misha’s eyes widened as Cameron held up his hand.
“I wasn’t implying you coming up to my room either.” There was a seductive quality to his voice that hadn’t been there before. “That is what you were thinking, wasn’t it?”
Misha cleared her throat, deciding to bypass his question with one of her own. “Are you one hundred per cent positive we wouldn’t be breaking a rule?”
Cameron chuckled. “Do you always follow the rules, Misha?”
“I don’t intentionally break them.”
“So do you battle inner demons if a recipe calls for one ingredient and you substitute another?”
“Really? You’re going to compare sharing a drink with you to me taking liberty as a chef and modifying a recipe?”
“So you’ve done it?” Cameron stepped closer to her as a group of noisy party-goers passed by them to board the elevator.
“Altered a recipe?” Misha scoffed indignantly. “Of course.”
“Disastrous?”
“Try divinely delicious.”
“Divinely delicious?”
She lifted her chin, ignoring the sexy twinkle of amusement in Cameron’s eyes. “Every single time. What does that have to do with what we’re talking about?”
“We’re talking about different scenarios yielding the same results.”
All the noise and distractions around them faded into the background as Cameron winked at her. She tore her gaze from his, troubled by how easy it was to imagine just how divinely delicious and dangerous it could be. “I don’t like breaking promises or rules, but I can live with a broken promise to keep from breaking a rule.”
Cameron nodded. “Understood. I’m going to check the competition bylaws and see what’s what. If I find out there is no rule against a judge and contender sharing a drink—”
“I’ll make the first toast,” Misha finished as her cell vibrated. She lifted it and saw that her sister had sent her a text. “I really have to go now. Serene is probably wondering if I went all the way to Italy for another bottle of vino.”
“Okay.” Cameron pushed his hands into his jeans pockets and Misha’s gaze dipped to the bulge beneath the dark denim. “I’ll let you go.”
Heat licked her cheeks when she met his eyes. “For the third time tonight, goodnight, Cameron.”
“Finally.”
Misha frowned. “Finally?”
“Finally, you said my first name.” He gave her a smile that instantly inspired the need to bake decadent desserts. “Goodnight, Misha.”
Flustered, she turned away from him, gratefully getting into the lift that opened at the exact moment she stopped in front of it. God, had he noticed her looking at his cock imprint?
Classy, Misha, real classy.
Peeking had been a totally involuntary action. Misha sighed as she read her sister’s text.
Did you get into some kinda trouble down there?
She most definitely had.
Chapter Four
Cameron walked into the restaurant, waving and smiling in a sea of faces, some of which he recognised. Tonight’s glitzy dinner was all about guaranteeing continued support from the sponsors of Celeb Chef. He easily spotted the other judges and Misha taking promotional pictures with Vivian, Pier and Jackson, the other remaining contenders for the show.
As usual, Misha stood out next to Vivian, who appeared awkward in her dark gown. Misha was the picture of elegance and beauty, stunning in a strapless black evening dress. Cameron envied the soft fabric moulding to her curves. He wanted to run his hands up her sexy legs, on display thanks to her shorter hemline. Her hair was pulled up and twisted ebony strands framed her face. Cameron’s attention was drawn to her lips when she laughed at something Pier had said.
“I can’t believe I had to wear another suit.”
Cameron glanced at Don who’d come to stand next to him. “That suit suits you, stop your bitchin’.”
Don laughed. “They want all of the judges front and centre for promo shots with the photographer. Gus wants us ready to say cheese in two minutes.”
“That gives me just enough time for a drink.”
Don clapped him on the shoulder just as a production assistant asked the judges to join the Celeb Chef contenders. “Smile now, drink later.”
“Damn. Let’s go.”
Cameron led the way and was quickly instructed to stand between Misha and Vivian. He complied, giving Vivian a quick smile before glancing at Misha. His blood pumped a little faster the instant he looked into the honeyed brown depths of her eyes. He wanted to make her smile over and over again just to watch those full lips—so lush and pretty in a glossy shade of pink—curve for him. He wondered how she’d react if he grabbed her ha
nd, yanked her away from everyone else and spent the rest of the night showing her how much he desired her. Now wasn’t the time or the place for anything other than perfect smiles and absolute professionalism.
Too bad his cock didn’t give a damn.
“All right, everybody. I’m Gus. Give me what I want and this will be over in just a few shots,” the photographer said. “Here we go.”
Cameron plastered a good-natured grin on his face and focused on not blinking in the flurry of bright flashes that ensued.
“Anybody know where Shannon is?” Gus asked a few minutes later.
“I’m right here.”
Everyone turned in the direction of Shannon’s voice. She looked like a long-legged Barbie, dressed to impress, wearing a short, sequined, hunter-green dress that shimmered in the light with every step she took in impossibly high silver stilettos.
“I thought we were all supposed to wear black,” Vivian whispered, and a few soft chuckles could be heard as Gus whistled in appreciation.
“I think you should stand right by our new judge.” Gus brought Shannon in front of the group. “You know what?” The photographer snapped his fingers and pointed to Cameron. “I need you to pick her up into your arms. Cool?”
“Not a problem.”
Gus looked at Shannon. “You okay with that?”
Shannon giggled. “I am totally okay with that.” The redhead moved over to Cameron. “Ready when you are, Chef Banner.” She wagged her finger at him. “Don’t you drop me.”
“Don’t you wiggle.”
Everyone chuckled as he picked her up and Shannon laced one arm around his neck. “I could get used to this.”
Cameron grinned as Gus handed Shannon a replica of the stainless steel knife the winner of Celeb Chef would receive. He just wanted to get the photo op over and done with so he could talk to Misha.
“Okay. I’m lovin’ it.” Gus brought up his camera. “Shannon, lift that kitchen utensil high and give me that sultry smile we all love.”
Another flurry of camera flashes went off before the photographer announced he was done and Cameron gently put Shannon down. “See, you were worried for nothing.”
“Oh, I wasn’t worried. Thank you, Cameron.”
“Any time.”
Shannon placed her hand on his sleeve. “You’re an excellent addition to the show, by the way.”
“Thank you.”
Cameron leant down when the redhead beckoned him closer. “You’re fast becoming my favourite. Promise not to tell?”
“Your secret is safe with me.” Cameron gave a conspiratorial wink.
“I bet I can guess who your favourite is too.”
“Oh?”
Shannon nodded. “I wasn’t sure until after today’s result show. You do a great job of keeping your praise and criticism equal for them all, but I still think you’re partial to a certain chef.”
“Which one?”
Shannon smiled. “Misha.”
Oh, hell. Was his interest in Misha obvious to millions of viewers watching the show?
“And how did you come up with that conclusion?”
“Am I right?” Shannon asked, tucking an auburn strand back.
Cameron shrugged. “I don’t think it would be fair to either confirm or deny your conjecture.”
Shannon laughed. “Fine, but I know I’m right. She’s your personal pick to win.”
“I think any of the remaining four could take the title. They’re all talented,” Cameron said enigmatically as Gus walked over to them.
“The pictures look awesome.” The popular photographer lifted both hands and pointed at them. “You two look amazing together. I’ll let send you both copies of the selected photo, if you both promise to sign one for me.”
“Absolutely.”
The photographer turned his attention from Cameron to Shannon.
“I’d love to.”
Gus smiled. “Perfect. I’ve been invited to an exclusive private party tonight. Biggest names in the biz. You should come with me, Shannon.”
Shannon glanced at Cameron as if she expected him to say something. “Well, I’m not sure I should leave this party just yet.”
“The producer of that new game show you mentioned being interested in will be there. Don’t go and it could be a missed opportunity.” The photographer let his voice trail off dramatically with the last word and Cameron held back a chuckle.
It was obvious the guy had the hots for the long-legged redhead.
Shannon shrugged. “All right. I’ll go.”
“I’ll meet you by the front door in, say, five minutes?”
“Fine,” Shannon said as Gus shook Cameron’s hand. She waited until he was out of earshot to speak. “He’s high energy, isn’t he?”
Cameron chuckled. “I hear those types take the best photos.”
“Oh, they’ll be amazing. I’ve worked with him before and he does incredible work.”
“I’ve seen some of his stuff.” Cameron couldn’t take his eyes off Misha still standing by the other Celeb Chef contenders while Shannon talked. He wanted to be by her side.
“Hey, where are you going?” Shannon touched his arm and Cameron realised he’d started to walk away without even thinking about it.
“Time to mingle. You should be going too. Gus is anxious to whisk you away to what could be a big step in your illustrious career.”
That made the British host giggle. “You are too cute for your own good, and Gus is right, we do look good together.”
Cameron grinned. “Have fun tonight, Shannon.” He started to turn from her, one objective on his mind.
“Chef Banner, wait.”
He pivoted to look at Shannon again.
“I’d like to get your opinion on a recipe of my own. What do you say about being my own personal judge for an evening this week?”
I’d say I’m not interested.
“Hmm… I’d say you’d have to give me more details on what was being served,” Cameron said, deciding his initial reaction was far too harsh to voice out loud.
Shannon smiled. “I’ll share more details tomorrow, if you’ll say yes.”
“I’m not saying no.”
Not yet.
“We’ll talk tomorrow then.”
Shannon give him a little wink then walked away and Cameron admired her graceful stride in her stilettos. She was a beautiful woman and any other time he would have been game.
But not now.
There was only one female he was interested in spending any extra time with. Pivoting, Cameron made his way over to where Misha stood alone fiddling with her cell. His gaze ran over her bare shoulders, dropped to the inviting curve of her full breasts in her perfectly tailored evening dress. As far as he was concerned, she was a tasty revelation for his senses. “Congratulations on making the cut, Misha.”
Brown eyes lifted to meet his. “Thank you, Chef Banner. I’m excited and honoured to be one of the final four.”
“You absolutely deserve to be in the final four.” Cameron shifted his gaze from Misha to the woman joining her at her side, noting the similar features. “You must be Serene.”
“I am.” Serene shook his hand and gave him a warm smile. “Nice to officially meet you.”
Cameron smiled back, drawing mental comparisons between the two gorgeous sisters. Serene was a little taller. The dusky rose dress she wore showed off her feminine, yet slender body. Her hair was ultra-short and curly. She had the same high cheekbones, full lips and beautiful smooth skin, maybe a shade darker than Misha’s.
“I heard you’re the reason Misha decided to compete in the show. She’s lucky to have her big sister looking out for her.”
“I am lucky.” Misha linked arms with Serene and Cameron could sense the depth of their sisterhood.
“How did you know I was older?” Serene asked. “Usually everyone assumes I’m the youngest when we’re together.”
“I can relate. That happens to me and my younger brother Olive
r, too. Used to drive me nuts.” Cameron grinned as Serene and Misha chuckled. “Can I get you two ladies some champagne?”
“Yes.”
“No—” Misha said at the exact moment that her sister answered. She ignored Serene’s curious glance as Cameron chuckled.
“Are you sure, Misha?”
“On second thought, I’ll take a glass.”
“All right.” Cameron tilted his head at the sisters. “Two glasses of champagne coming up.”
Misha turned to her sister once he had walked away. “Why were you looking at me like that?”
“You, saying no to champagne?” Serene teased. “What universe am I in?”
Misha huffed. “What? I’m not thirsty.”
Serene gave her the squint eye. “Not thirsty for champagne maybe, but you would like a tall drink of water… Also known as Chef Sexy.”
Misha gasped. “Serene!” She looked around to make sure no one had overheard their conversation.
“That’s Cameron’s new name.” Serene let out a low whistle. “He looks great in his chef uniform, but in that suit? Good Lord, he looks good enough to eat.”
Misha and her sister both studied Cameron standing at the bar across the room. She’d already seen him dressed to the nines, but her pulse reacted as if she’d had no idea he could and did indeed look good enough to eat. Smelt like it too. She wanted to bury her nose inside his suit jacket and just take her time slowly inhaling what had to be the closest mankind had come to capturing sex in a bottle.
“Misha, you know I can always tell when you’re into a man. So, why can’t you just admit you’ve got the hots for him?”
“Because I don’t and if I did, I couldn’t. I’m sure fraternising with a Celeb Chef judge is against rules.”
Serene snorted. “Whatever. The competition will be over soon enough. I can’t believe he isn’t dating anyone.”
“How do you know that?”
“There was an article about his sporadic love life on this online entertainment magazine I was checking out earlier.”
“You really need to stop reading those ridiculous gossip sites.”
“You’re right.” Serene sighed. “I guess there’s no need to tell you about this other little interesting titbit I read about Chef Sexy.”
Soul Sweet Page 5