Chapter 70
Olivia
“That would be nice,” I said, ignoring the triumphant look on Emilia’s face. “Let me just settle our tab first.”
Alexander placed his hand on the small of my back. “I’ve got it.”
“No, really, I can pay,” I protested, reaching for my purse.
“Olivia.” His voice was firm but gentle. “I interrupted your evening. Let me take care of it.”
I hesitated, not wanting to seem like I was taking advantage of his wealth, especially after Madison and Stella’s accusations. “It’s just a few drinks.”
“Exactly,” he said with a small smile. “A minor expense.”
“For you, maybe,” I muttered.
Alexander leaned closer, his breath warm against my ear. “Let me do this.”
“Fine,” I relented. “But I’m paying next time.”
His eyes sparkled with amusement. “Next time?”
I flushed, realizing what I’d implied. “I mean, if there is a next time. With my friends. Not that you’d want to-”
“I’d love to join you and your friends again,” he said, cutting off my rambling. “They seem… protective.”
“That’s one word for it,” I said, glancing at Emilia, who was watching our interaction with unabashed interest.
Alexander signaled the waitress, who practically sprinted over. I’d like to close out their tab.”
“Right away, Mr. Carter,” she said, clearly recognizing him.
“Add a hundred percent tip,” he added.
The waitress’s eyes widened. “Yes, sir. Thank you, sir.”
As she hurried away, I raised an eyebrow at him. “Show–off.”
“Generous,” he corrected.
have
a genuine sound that made something warm unfurl
are you
“Emilia!” I hissed, mortified.
so she can change out of her
to her.”
nodded approvingly. “I like him,
1/4
returned
“Ready?” he asked me.
purse. “Let me
our table, watching
I told them, leaning in for quick hugs. “Thanks for a fun night, minus
exciting part,” Claire laughed. “Your boyfriend swooping in like
stopped myself, remembering our
Ariana whispered, making
us later,” Emilia said, following us toward the
“Not happening,” I replied.
my skin, a welcome relief from the crowded bar. Alexander guided me
Claire, and Ariana followed us out, huddling
can give your friends a ride home,” Alexander offered, noticing
my boyfriend Jake is already on his
sure?” I asked, feeling
“Go get changed.
“If you’re
wink. “Take good care of
as Alexander opened the passenger door of his sleek black car. The leather seat welcomed me as
side. Through the window, I could see my friends huddled together,
nice,” Alexander said as
ridiculous,” I muttered, but couldn’t help smiling. “But yes, they’re
from the curb. I watched my friends
“I’m
that.”
and Stella,” Alexander said, his eyes fixed on the road. “They
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