Page 100 of Billion Dollar Date

37

Enzo

“Hello, Enzo.”

This is just what I need. We’re going to have to find a new restaurant soon.

“Evening, G.”

I step inside, wondering why the high-powered attorney is playing hostess tonight. After her little maneuver a few weeks back, I’m even less keen on being in her presence. She asked for a small press opp, a photo together, and I caved. Should have known she’d put her own little spin on the story. My fault, but it’s a mistake I won’t make again.

“I hate to say it, because you know how much I adore you.” Giovanna walks us toward the table even though she knows full well we sit in the same spot every week. “But you look like shit.”

Not what I was expecting.

“Thanks,” I say wryly. “Appreciate it.”

Instead of leaving me with my menu to wait for Hayden, the brazen woman sits across from me. I seriously can’t catch a break.

“Can I be honest?” she asks.

“More honest than telling me I look like shit?”

The look on her face, a blank slate, makes me think of all those days she spends in a courtroom, playing whatever part is necessary to convince everyone around her that her client is innocent.

Giovanna herself, not so much.

“You don’t like me.”

I’ll give it to her, G managed to surprise me with that one.

“I can come on a bit strong.”

This time I’m the one who delivers a poker face. I don’t much like her, but I’d never say, or even hint, at such a thing. So I remain as impassive as possible.

“You’re one of the only men I’ve ever met who hasn’t jumped at the chance to be with me.”

I can’t help but laugh.

“I love your humility, G.”

She smiles. Not a predatory, come-hither smile, but a genuine one. Who knew she was capable of that?

“I also don’t like beating around the bush. But you know that.”

I glance toward the door. No Hayden yet. “I do.”

“After I saw the pic of your girlfriend”—at the mention of Chari, I’m on high alert—“I realized we were never going to be a thing.”

I don’t deny it.

“I’m not your type.”

No, not at all.

“So you can stop looking over your shoulder, waiting for me to pounce. I’ve moved on.”

“Have you?”