Lucy Belladonna.
She was the managing director ofFive Stonesand a beautiful woman. Driven, successful, and with a sexy Italian accent. Many times, they had come close to taking things into the bedroom and never had.
He couldn’t say why.
Better options? Possibly.
“You look distracted tonight, Fletcher.” Her accent was thicker as she laid a red-nail-polished hand on his black Dolce & Gabbana jacket.
Lucy was sharp as a tack, but then again, his usual fun demeanor was nowhere to be seen. She should know he wouldn’t discuss personal matters with her.
They were a supplier to Dufort Hotels, not friends.
“Tonight has been a success. I’m sure the new botanical flavors will be popular with guests of our hotels.” He tucked a hand in one of his pockets and nodded as a passing waiter took his empty glass and replaced it with a fresh Macallan.
“I see we still can’t persuade you away from the dark side.” She smirked.
“Not tonight, I’m afraid.” He lifted the whiskey to his lips.
Especially if the rumors about gin were true.
Crying juice.
The last thing he needed was more damn emotions. He’d been trying to blot them out, not exaggerate them.
Falling in love was not what he’d expected it to be.
Hell, he’d never evenexpectedto fall in love at all.
Maybe on some level he had, but Fletcher thought it would be with a woman who was head over heels with him and he’d kind of love her in return. As in, he’d feel in control and...
Well, he’d always imagined he’d be loved in return.
Unrequited love? No.
Who the fuck would have thought?
The “Playboy of Manhattan” rejected.
Stupid fucking nickname.
“Not to worry. The night is young. I’m sure we can put a smile on your face before the evening is over.” She leaned into him.
Fletcher tilted his head.
Lucy was not just flirting but propositioning him.
Perhaps this was what he needed?
––––––––
TWO HOURS LATER, HIShead was spinning. He’d never been an easy drunk, and usually held his liquor well, but he’d been tossing them back.
And he was mixing them.
He couldn’t recall the moment he switched to gin, but he remembered Lucy had flung her hands in the air in celebration and the party had switched gears.
The music had pumped louder.