How do I explain that I’m looking at him because I’m thinking of another man?
“Well, isn’t this cozy?” Jafar growls from behind me.
I don’t miss the soft groan that Al makes. I feel the same way, but don’t make a sound. Instead, I stand and turn to face him. I brace myself, but nothing can prepare me for the look of hurt in his eyes. It’s almost like he’s jealous of Al.
He says, “Al, you’re supposed to be with the rest of the team, doing a sweep of the hotel. Get your ass over there before I fire you.”
Al jumps to his feet. “Yes, sir.”
He drops the towel on the table and rushes away as if the devil is chasing him.
“A word.”
Jafar walks away, not even waiting to see if I’m going to follow. Of course, I do. He goes in the opposite direction to a study. I walk past him, knowing he’s going to close the door. He does and turns to me.
“Thank you for the necklace and earrings,” I say before he has time to speak. “It’s too much, but I love them.”
“It’s not too much. You should have that and more draping your skin every day.”
I move closer to him before I think better of it. My hand goes to his breast pocket.
“And thank you for this.”
His hand covers mine. “I’m glad you noticed.”
I look up at him, praying he’s going to kiss me. He doesn’t. Instead, he goes to the minibar and pours himself a drink. He doesn’t even ask if I want one, but I understand. He needed to step away from me, and I can respect that.
“I thought I told you to stay away from Al.”
“You did.”
“Then why in the fuck were you hovering over him while he looked up at you like he was in love?”
I shrug. “He was hurt, and I got him some ice.” I pause, knowing it needs to be said. “He’s going to be my date tonight.”
“Is he now?” Jafar finishes his drink all while watching me. “What if I told him no?”
“I don’t know. I can’t control what you do, but if he’s there, I’m going to find him. I don’t want to be in there alone tonight. It’s not fair to me.”
“Fair.” He snorts. “None of this is fucking fair.”
“I know. And that’s why I need you to let me do this.”
“Are you going to let him kiss you?”
My chest feels warm. “I don’t know. I haven’t thought about it.”
“When he does, who will you be picturing?” His eyes are dark as he watches me.
“Tonight, I’ll be picturing him.”
It’s a lie and we both know it.
Jafar pours himself another drink and leans against his desk.
“Seven days.”
My breath catches because I know what he’s talking about. Seven days until the gala. After that, this will be buried away forever. I want to ask if he’s going to remember me fondly when he thinks of me, but I don’t. Chances are I won’t like his answer.