I exhale and spend the next few minutes filling De’Shaun in on all the details of the past week. He’s a great listener and while part of me feels bad for unloading my life’s drama on him, he did ask for it. Besides, there’s something about him that makes me instantly comfortable. Maybe it’s because he’s been nothing but kind, showing me the ropes and helping me settle into this role. Or maybe my soul recognizes his as a kindred spirit. Hair and makeup have to stick together.
“So car trouble and housing situation aside, it sounds like you might actually like this guy. The billionaire.”
I shake my head. “It’s not like that.”
“Isn’t it?” De’Shaun picks a grape off the stem and shrugs before popping it in his mouth. “There’s nothing wrong with admitting your feelings. Not like I’m going to tell anyone. Besides, if he’s loaded . . .”
“That’s the problem.” I pick apart what’s left of the pastry on my plate. “I’ve always gone for guys like that. Ones who are so willing to help me out or play the savior when I need it. It’s all fun and games until you find him cheating on you with his secretary.”
“Mmm hmm. I feel you there, sis.”
“Right?” I bite at the inside of my cheek. “I have no interest in getting my heart broken. I don’t even have a working car. And I sure as hell don’t want to go back to my apartment.” Though it’s probably inevitable, I’d like to put it off for at least a few more days.
“Well, I’m not sure a vehicle or a place to stay has anything to do with your heart. But I do see your point. Only thing is . . .”
I swallow the last piece of my pastry and toss the plate into the nearby trashcan, waiting for De’Shaun to continue.
He chews the last of his food, and I swear there is a hint of a smile as he makes me wait. “You plan on keeping that heart locked up forever?”
His pointed question catches me off guard. “No,” I say more forcefully than I intend. “It’s just not a good time. I know myself. And I’m trying not to repeat old habits.”
“And I have nothing but respect for that.” De’Shaun tosses his plate in the trash and holds up his hands. “Just be careful you don’t close yourself off so tightly that you forget to let the light in. We all deserve a little sunshine.”
Is that what I’m doing? Have I cast Jude into a role based on my unwillingness to move from the past? Yeah, he has money. He’s cocky and self-assured, but that’s where the similarities between him and my past boyfriends end.
“Come on, let’s get to work. Those questions crinkling your forehead can wait. Hair and makeup for our leading lady can’t.”
I nod and smile, keeping pace with his long strides. “Thank you,” I say, and at his odd expression I continue, “For listening.”
“That’s what friends are for.”
Friends. Damn. His admission warms my heart more than he’ll ever know.
26
Jude
Work keeps me busy and I score a few big finds for two clients—a 1954 Packard Panther in mint condition for a real estate mogul in Beverly Hills, and a set of Hungarian stacking dolls—the perfect gift for another client’s grandmother. There’s a natural high that comes from closing a deal, the satisfaction of another happy customer, and when I receive a text from Rachel at the end of the day, I’m already in a good mood. The promise of spending time with her only makes it better. I grab Walter’s leash and he bounds from his spot on the couch with the same excitement I feel.
As we pull into the lot, I notice her immediately. She lifts her head. The smile that lights up her face the second she spots my approaching vehicle rattles something solid inside my chest.
Walter props his front paws on the door and whines. I grab his leash before she opens the door, then scoop him onto my lap. He continues to whine and tug on the leash in an attempt to get closer to Rachel.
“Hey!” She opens the door, her eyes meeting mine, then brightening when they land on Walter. She slides into the seat and buckles up. “You brought my buddy.” She holds her hands out, her smile wide and open. She claps her hands and he bounds over the center console, tackling her with a flurry of kisses. I open my mouth to scold him, or at the very least apologize, but before I do her laughter fills the vehicle. I’ve spent enough time with women to know there aren’t many like her. She’s dressed up, her hair and makeup perfect. Yet she’s not worried about a little dog hair or slobber.
“I think Walter missed you,” I deadpan as I shift into drive and wind my SUV back into traffic.
She giggles as he licks at the bare skin on her neck. “I see that.”
“Walter. Enough.”
“He’s fine.” She lifts her gaze and I’d like nothing more than to kiss away the sweet smile that plays on her lips.
“Hungry? You didn’t have dinner yet?” Can she hear the hopefulness in my tone? I don’t even care if she does, because as much as I’d like to play it cool, I’d like to have dinner with her more.
“No, and I’m famished.”
“Good. I have the perfect place.” I can’t keep the grin from my face. “Unless you have other plans?”
“Nope.” She strokes the back of Walter’s fur. “Do we need to drop this guy home? Should I change?”
You’re perfect. “Actually, he’s going to join us.”
“Oh?” Her brows lift with her gaze. “You have
