Todd.” I swear my blood has almost reached boiling point as I take his hand. The corners of his eyes twitch as I squeeze tighter than usual, picturing crushing his hand to dust inside my own. I smile before I release him. I smirk as he heads to the fridge and passes me a beer. “There never is a time with you. That’s what you get for wanting to run for Governor—everyone watching your every move.” I fight to keep the amusement from my face. She heard Reed doing God knows what last night and thinks it was me. Goodreads Librarians are volunteers who help ensure the accuracy of information about books and authors in the Goodreads' catalog. The Goodreads Libra Goodreads Librarians are volunteers who help ensure the accuracy of information about books and authors in the Goodreads' catalog. The Goodreads Librarians Group is the official group for requesting additions or updates to the catalog, including:

Another trace of amusement passes over my lips, and I hide it before she sees. I sit forward, resting my elbows on my knees. This is one thing that impressed me about Maria when I first met her. She’s direct. To the point. You don’t wonder where you are with her. And in business, that can save a lot of time and a great deal of wasted energy. It’s a sign of confidence and strength that I greatly admire. After the initial pleasantries and introductions, the four of us take our seats at the large conference table. Maria and I on one side, Todd and Serena on the other. The Songbird spa has been using them for several years now to supply the products. I’ve never had a problem with either of them before today, but the way Todd’s eyes keep dropping to Maria’s chest when he thinks she won’t notice doesn’t escape my attention, and I find myself scowling at him over across the table, my jaw clenched tight. Harley told me he has a penthouse in the building. I just didn’t expect to be given the one next door while I’m working here. You know. It’s up to you what you do in your own time. I just wish I didn’t have to hear it through the wall.” My voice rises. “It’s like living next door to a zoo of horny baboons! Some of us like our sleep. Maybe you could visit your friends at their place once in a while? Or practice the art of mime? You know, put someone else first, be considerate?” Through their working relationship they recognize that there is a spark that is more from an instance attraction than just a mutual annoyance for each other. It was beautiful watching the two of these characters learn to love and trust again. Maria was an amazing FMC with a smart head on her shoulders and Griffin was the perfect mix of swoon and alphahole! The side characters held a fabulous chemistry with each other and often times gave some levity within more serious moments.The one and only.” He straightens his shoulders as he grins at me. “Why don’t you drop by after work later and we can talk about all things LA?” What if he does? I can handle it. Alone.” She takes a step closer to me, her voice dropping as she narrows her eyes at me. “You know, I’m thinking of putting a donations box in the spa lobby.”

And of course, to Rosie, for bringing happiness and inspiration… and a load of bird poop to our little spot in the world.His dark brows pinch closer together as he studies my face with an unapologetic entitlement, like he has every damn right to look inside my soul should he wish. If you are implying that I cannot be professional and keep my personal life separate from business, then you’re very much mistaken.” She narrows her eyes at me. “Of anyone in this hotel, you can trust me the most not to blur the lines.”

He leans forward, the fabric of his blazer grazing the front of my dress. Tingles spread from my fingertips all the way up my arms and across my chest as he brings his lips to my ear. Warm breath dances against my skin. I’m surrounded my him—his scent, his heat, his energy. I drag in a breath as his voice turns low and gravelly. She gives me a polite smile, her eyes darting to Reed’s closed door behind me. “Going out tonight?” No one’s negativity is greater than us, more powerful than we are. No one can hurt us beyond repair. Watching Harley and Suze laugh together, their friendship and love for each other radiating from them in waves proves it.

This was a powerful story of faith, trust and love that impressed me. I laughed and cried and raged as I followed the stages of the bond that Maria and Griffin forged. This was the best book in the Men series so far. A truly moving HEA not to be missed. This book now holds a very special place in my heart. His eyes crinkle at the corners. “You’ve made an old man’s day, Harley, even if you do need glasses.” Thanks for lunch.” She smiles as we take a seat. She lifts the lid off her latte and inhales deeply. “Ah, come to Mama, baby.” She catches me smiling and looks pointedly at my cup. “Trust me, Maria. You’ll want to kiss me. No place makes them better. Not even The Songbird.”

Oh, and the amount of times her “juices” were running down her leg or shooting out of her (it seriously said that) was bizarre. She needs a gynaecologist. I place the reports on the table. His eager face has guilt gnawing in my stomach as a result of my rudeness. Emily smiles at her. “I’m so sorry to rush off. How about I come in next week? I’d love to spend more than one minute talking.” Her hands stay outstretched as I stare at them. It’s the first time I’ve noticed her wear pink nail polish. Usually it’s red, or a cream color that blends in with her skin. I’ve always wondered why women wear that. It makes their hands look like an ’80s mannequin. The pink suits her. It’s softer. She seems softer today. I look up at her face. The frown she often wears in my presence is missing.I knew things were going to be different in New York from LA. But befriending your husband’s mistress? Surely not.