Page 35 of Escape To Paradise
“Yeah, I know, I’m an old dog. It’s hard to teach me new tricks. I get it.” He was fidgeting; he kept wiping the table with a washcloth.
I teased, “Are you nervous, Maverick?”
“No. What made you say that?” he asked.
“Well, you’ve been wiping the same spot since talking to me.”
He blushed. “Old habit.”
“Is that all?” It seemed like he had something to tell me.
“Yes, yes, for now,” he said dismissively. “Although, I can’t help but notice how pretty you look tonight.”
I was wearing makeup, a red lipstick, and a dress with cleavage. It was for Julian; I just wanted to look pretty for him. It’s been a long time since I felt this way for anyone.
“Thanks.” I drank my gin and tonic and then looked at my watch, tapping my fingers on the bar.
“You are waiting for someone?” Maverick asked.
“Sort of,” I said coyly.
That seemed to pique Maverick’s attention, because he tilted his head a bit and looked around.
“Is that person around here somewhere?”
“Soon.”
“Do you have a date, Harper?” Maverick looked concerned.
“Yeah, I hope.” I smiled. “Why do you have that look on your face?”
“What look?”
“That look,” I pointed out.
“I am just wondering how you’ve gotten a date. I mean, isn’t that too soon?”
“Why are you so interested in my personal life, Maverick?”
He shook his head. “I’m not. I’m just worried. I mean, who is this guy you’re going out with?”
“You’ll soon find out.” I twirled my glass and watched the clear liquid swirl inside.
The girls ordered another round of drinks, and I was relieved. Maverick seemed like he was watching me like a hawk, which annoyed me.
I heard footsteps from behind me. I turned around, and there was Julian. He was as handsome as ever. His muscular chest was on display as he wore his white shirt with the top buttons open. He also smelled fabulous, wearing his signature aftershave.
“How are you doing, gorgeous?” he whispered in my ear and touched my shoulder.
“I’m doing great. I haven’t heard from you in a while.”
“I’m sorry. I’ve been working.” He touched my face.
“What do you have planned for me?” I asked.
“I’ll show you around my villa. And I’ll make you a better cocktail than the one they have here. I didn’t know this place was still open.”
“You know this place?” I looked up at him.
