Page 121 of Titus

“I don’t watch the news, and you know that,” I said with a laugh. “God, of course Titus would make the damn news.”

Sienna’s eyes narrowed at me, “Exactly my point about the man.”

“Stop.” My voice came out more serious this time. I didn’t need anyone judging me or acting like I was completely spellbound by him.

Why? Because I was already doing enough of that to myself. I didn’t need anyone else’s doubts creeping in and casting shadows over it, too.

Ding! Ding!

I looked down to see who had texted me, and I couldn't help but smile when I realized I had somehow manifested the man.

“I’m going to use the ladies’ room and then call for the check,” Sienna said. “I have an early meeting this morning, and I can’t be late this time.” She smiled warmly. “I’m glad we did this. We need to have brunches like these more often.”

“I definitely agree,” I smiled. Then my heart picked up when I opened my phone to reveal Titus’s text to me.

Titus: Good morning, preciosa. I’ve missed you.

I returned early, and I’d love to have dinner with you tonight.

I bit back a smile of excitement. Why would I turn him down? Last time we were together, we had a fantastic time, and lately I could use a distraction from everything going on.

Cat: You up for your favorite fish shack tonight?

Three dots popped up immediately as he typed.

Titus: I’ve been craving it, but I do have some different plans if you’re willing?

Cat: Plans?

Titus: Yes.

My lips twisted in thought, but hell, I needed the escape, and Jessica was here again with Amelia. So why the hell not?

Cat: That sounds lovely. Where do I meet you?

Titus: You’re not meeting me anywhere, preciosa. I plan to be the perfect gentleman and pick you up.

Text me your address.

Either Titus Hawk was about to become one of my biggest mistakes, or the best distraction to enter my life in years.

I texted him my address without hesitation.

That evening, I walked out with an overnight bag packed, wearing my rose-colored satin dress. I draped a lightweight black coat over my arm when the girls both shot me a knowing look.

“Don’t lose your minds over this,” I said. “It’s a six-story yacht, and I’m pretty sure it would take me three days to tour all the floors.”

“Don’t lose our minds over what?” Amelia taunted as Jessica laughed. “The fact that you’re living every person’s dream on social media right now?”

“Why am I not surprised to hear it made it to social media?”

“All I have to say is…” Jessica took another bite of pizza, “… if Titus Hawk wasn’t the most sought-after, hot-as-sin billionaire before, he is now.”

I watched the girls giggle and laugh, twisting my lips, wondering whether the sudden fame the man was receiving was even worth the trouble of letting him be a fun distraction for me.

“What’s that look about?” Amelia asked.

I exhaled. “The man is already a big deal in his world. I guess I just didn’t expect him to move into ours in the same way.”