Page 44 of Wicked Takeover
Chapter Six
“Hey, cute.” Jasmina stopped in the back room doorway and smiled approvingly at Lauren’s gladiator sandals, black lace top, and gypsy skirt printed with striking designs in dark gold and bronze.
Lauren had bought the outfit at a street fair a few years back. Although both pieces were undeniably pretty, the super cheap price had spoken to her practical nature. She drifted more toward that than fashion sense. Too, she figured neither item would go out of style in South Florida and would be comfortable to wear when she had to shop for groceries or run errands.
She’d never considered wearing them for Dante or how nude she’d feel even with the gauzy fabric falling to her ankles.
Jasmina joined her at the fridge.
Lauren pressed her thighs together.
“You look gorgeous.” Jasmina shoved Dove Bars and Fudgesicles into the freezer. “You planning to make your move on Dante?”
Jasmina should have asked her that last night. Then, Lauren had been up for anything.
In the harsh light of day and considering what had just happened, or rather hadn’t, coming onto him seemed like an incredibly dumb idea. Since their lovemaking and dinner had been so enchanting, she’d arrived at the parlor earlier than usual, figuring he’d already be here to take control, using her as they both wanted.
He hadn’t been.
There were no voicemails or emails saying where he was or when he’d show up. He’d never been this late before. For the first hour, Lauren had worried. After that, a cold dread settled on her. Probably no different from what her mother had felt when Frank had failed to return decades ago.
She had almost read her father’s note when she’d returned to her condo last night but got sidetracked by the treats Dante had bought her. Turrones, a confection filled with honey and toasted almonds. Brazo gitano, sponge cake stuffed with mango marmalade. And churros, a deep-fried pastry rolled in granulated sugar.
She hadn’t had so much to eat since she’d lost her job. Never had food tasted as good. Stuffed, relaxed, and happy, she’d gone to bed, recalling her toes stroking Dante’s beneath the table. His impassioned kiss at her car. His thighs smacking against hers as he plunged his cock into her wet and willing channel. His directive that she not wear panties to work any longer. Remembering that, she’d giggled like a teenager and slept better than she had in months.
Now it was time to wake up.
“About the bookings today…” Lauren strove for a casual air despite her growing conviction that Dante wouldn’t show up.
He wouldn’t disappear as Frank had, but he’d probably call in sick, stay away for a few days, then waltz back in here and pretend nothing had happened between them. Not even mind-blowing sex.
That was all it had been, a physical connection. They’d been caught up in the moment. Her more than him, and he was regretting it.
Jasmina closed the freezer. “What about today’s bookings?”
“Will Van Gogh be able to handle them by himself?”
“Why would he have to?” Jasmina sucked in a breath. “Oh my God, did you fire Dante?”
“No. Of course not. Why would I?”
Jasmina looked reluctant to say.
God, this was worse than high school. “He’s not here. He’s never been this late. He’s probably going to call in and take a couple of days off.”
Jasmina made a face. “He told you that?”
“He didn’t tell me anything.” Lauren flapped her hands. “He’s not here.”
“He will be. No doubt about it.”
“How would you know?”
“Because he always comes into work after business with vendors. He’s at a meeting today with a new guy who’ll help us cut costs. He told Van Gogh and me about it yesterday. He didn’t mention it to you?”
Lauren couldn’t recall if he had. Yesterday was a blur until they’d gone at each other in the hall. Every moment after that had etched itself indelibly in her mind. “I guess I forgot.”
“Want me to tell you when he gets here so you can finally ask him out?”
