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.

you have your

that made something warm unfurl in my chest. “Fair

are you whisking our

“Emilia!” I hissed, mortified.

so she can change out of her stained

to her.”

answer,” Emilia nodded approvingly. “I like him,

1/4

returned polite

“Ready?” he asked me.

grabbing my purse. “Let me

our table,

quick hugs. “Thanks for a fun night, minus

Claire laughed. “Your

stopped myself, remembering our arrangement. “He’s just being

Ariana whispered, making me roll

us later,” Emilia said, following us toward the

“Not happening,” I replied.

a welcome relief from the crowded bar. Alexander guided me toward

Claire, and Ariana followed us out, huddling

give your friends a ride home,” Alexander offered, noticing them. There’s plenty of

boyfriend Jake is already on his way. He’s

I asked, feeling

get changed. We’ll

“If you’re

are,” Ariana said with a wink. “Take good care of our

sleek black car. The leather seat welcomed me as

walked around to the driver’s side. Through the window, I could see my friends huddled together, whispering and giggling like teenagers. Emilia caught

seem nice,” Alexander said as he slid

couldn’t help smiling. “But

the curb. I

“I’m

that.”

and Stella,” Alexander said, his eyes fixed on the road. “They had

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