Chapter Three
Brooke
Gabe: See you tonight.
I haven’t got a damn thing done today. Waking up to his text this morning was another reminder, this is real.
After two years alone, I agreed to go on a date with a man I don’t even know.
He’s gorgeous, successful, and charming.
Why would I say no? Because I don’t trust people.
But something about Gabe has intrigued me, and I can’t deny the anticipation of seeing him again.
Even if this all blows up in my face.
Only time will tell.
Every time I begin editing the romance manuscript I’m working on, my mind drifts to our conversation last night.
His questions about the book both surprised and flustered me.
He listened and showed interest in what I had to say, which never happened after I married my ex-husband.
I’d drank a few glasses of wine and cringed when I re-read our messages this morning.
I don’t have a filter when I drink alcohol.
We talked about our childhoods and our families.
He told me how he started his company. Gabe worked his ass off to get where he is today.
He has a strong drive to succeed, and he likes to be in control of his life.
The thought of him commanding everyone’s attention in a business meeting has me feeling warm all of the sudden.
He exudes confidence and dominance, two things that are sexy as hell in my book.
Feeling more comfortable on the phone, I opened up to him.
It’s hard to discuss losing my family. Even though it happened so long ago, the pain is still overwhelming at times.
I think of all the milestones in my life, but my parents weren’t here to share them with me.
It’s lonely and heartbreaking, but I continue striving to make them proud.
Glancing at my phone, I realize it’s time to get ready for my date.
After taking a shower, I style my hair in long waves and apply minimal makeup.
Deciding on a black dress that stops mid-thigh and heels to match, I take one last look in the mirror.
Smiling at my reflection, I feel beautiful for the first time in a long time.
My hair is full, flowing down my back perfectly.
My skin is radiant with a natural glow. This dress looks amazing, hugging my curves just right.
“You can do this, Brooke.” Taking a deep breath, I relax my shoulders as I exhale. Grabbing my keys and purse, I head outside.
The drive to the restaurant is nerve-racking. A mixture of anxiety and excitement overwhelms me. Being my first date since my divorce, I’m praying I don’t make a fool of myself. Turning the radio on, I let the beat of the music take over, pushing away any negative energy.
Pulling into the restaurant, Gabe is already here, leaning against his truck, and I park in the empty space beside him. He saunters over, smiling while opening my door, reaching for my hand to help me out.
Smoothing down my dress, butterflies flutter in my stomach. My breathing stalls as I look at him.
Gabriel Layton is devastatingly handsome.
My thighs clench at the top couple of buttons undone on his gray shirt, teasing me with a sprinkle of dark chest hair.
Biting my bottom lip, I take in the black and gray ink peeking from under his rolled-up sleeves.
My gaze roams down his body and freezes on the sculpted bulge in his black slacks.
As my eyes make their way back to his face, I’m struck by his heated appraisal. I breathe deeply through parted lips, my body temperature rising.
He casually takes a step forward. “You look incredible.”
Blushing at his compliment, I smile. “You look very handsome, Gabriel.”
He moves closer, the heat of his body sending a shockwave through my system. Snaking his arm around my waist, he leans into my ear. “I’m going to kiss you.”
I gasp as his warm breath caresses my cheek. My voice is nowhere to be found so I do the only thing I can manage. I nod.
I should’ve said no.
This is moving too fast.
But who am I kidding? I want his mouth on mine.
He meets my gaze for a brief moment. Gripping my chin with his fingers, he leans in, sealing his lips to mine.
He’s soft and warm, yet firm and unyielding.
When his tongue traces my bottom lip, I give him entrance, and he plunges inside my mouth, exploring every inch.
Our tongues move against each other in a sensual dance, having a dizzying effect on me.
Swaying on my feet, my arms wrap around his neck, holding on for dear life.
God, this man can kiss.
Pulling him closer, a whimper leaves me as I lose myself in his delicious rhythm. He groans, his arm tightening around my waist. His growing length presses against my stomach and my body reacts. My core aches for him, wetness dampening my panties as my nails dig into the nape of his neck.
He pulls away, whispering against my lips. “We have to stop, or we won’t make it inside.”
Dazed and turned on more than I’ve ever been in my life, I nod. “Right. Dinner.”
He grins, gripping my hand, bringing it to his lips, kissing my knuckles. The sweet gesture has me melting into a puddle. Tucking my arm in the crook of his, he leads me to the massive building.
Holy shit.
This place is elegant. The outside is black with “The Golden Crown” etched in gold lettering.
I’ve never heard of this place, but it’s obviously popular from the full parking lot and the line forming at the door.
It sits beautifully on the edge of the river, weeping willow trees lining the pathway to the front door.
Once inside, I look around at the beautiful display of fairy lights, expecting to wait a while for a table to become available. I’m surprised again when he gives the hostess his last name, and we’re immediately taken back.
Gabe squeezes my hand gently, giving me a reassuring smile as we follow the hostess to our table. He pulls my chair out and once we’re both seated, I take in the dining area.
I know he’s successful and I try to hide my awkwardness, but this place screams money.
Second guessing my attire for the evening, anxiety weighs heavy in my chest. Looking around, I see women dressed in far less, but I question the dress I loved only moments ago.
The waiter approaches, and we place our drink orders. Fidgeting with my napkin, his voice breaks through my nervous thoughts. “Hey. What’s wrong?” He looks genuinely concerned, and I’m stunned he can read me so effortlessly.
“This place is beautiful. Thank you for bringing me here.” I deflect easily.
He tilts his head, watching me for a moment before his gaze softens. “It’s only money, baby. Don’t be nervous. These people think they’re better than everyone else because they have millions of dollars. In reality, they’re just assholes. They’re no better than you and me.”
He puts my mind at ease with his reassurance, but also with his endearment.
I’m startled as he loudly scoots his chair closer to mine. A few people look at us with contempt, but he doesn’t care. He seems like a genuine person, not one to put on a show because he’s wealthy.
“I’m glad you’re not an asshole.” I laugh.
“I have my moments.” He grins, and I shake my head.
We gaze at each other smiling until the waiter arrives with our drinks. Gabe tells me he only comes here for the steak, which I love, so he orders the same for both of us.
He leans closer, placing his warm hand on my thigh. “You’re gorgeous. All I can think about is tasting you again.”
My face heats and my core clenches simultaneously. I can’t believe my body is reacting like this.
Self-doubt rears her ugly head as I wonder if he truly wants me, or if any woman would be welcomed in his bed. Handsome, wealthy and charming, he could have his pick.
Summoning a calming breath, I push those negative thoughts from my mind. A man like Gabe would be attracted to me. He’d recognize my worth and want more than just a roll in the sheets.
Meeting his gaze, I smile shyly.
A low growl rumbles quietly in his chest as he leans even closer. “Do you need my touch, baby?”
Dear God.
My breath hitches and my blood feels like it’s on fire. “Gabe.”
Gently brushing my hair over my shoulder, he leans into my ear. “Don’t be shy. Never be afraid to ask for what you want, especially from me.”
A shiver racks my body as he nips my earlobe. His words have me panting like a needy bitch. Looking into his eyes, a storm is brewing behind his intense gaze. “I’ve never met anyone like you.”
His wicked smile makes me weak in the knees and I’m grateful to be sitting. “I want to strip you out of this tiny dress. Spread you across this table and worship every single inch of you.”
My breath stutters. The desire coursing through my veins is scorching hot. I’ve never wanted a man the way I want him.
“I want that, too.” I whisper but judging by the way his eyes darken, he heard me loud and clear.
The waiter arriving with our dinner breaks the spell, and I try to enjoy my meal. Gabe’s eating slowly, his smoldering eyes holding mine with every bite.
“Eat your dinner. You’re going to need it.” His deep voice is low and commanding.
He’s intense and so is his unwavering gaze. Swallowing slowly, I nod and return to eating. After I consume enough to satisfy him, he pays the check.
He stands, pulling out my chair, his hands sliding down my arms as I rise, goosebumps erupting across my skin. He grips my hand gently, tucking it into his arm, escorting me out of the restaurant.
Lost in my thoughts of where this night will lead, I’m grateful when he speaks first. “Our date can end here, angel. There’s no pressure for anything else.”
My head snaps up, my muscles relaxing at the soft look in his eyes. Relief fills me, knowing he’s taking my feelings into consideration. “I don’t want our date to end yet.”
“Do you want to go for a walk or get a drink? There’s a bar on the other side of town.”