Текст книги "Truth Or Dare"
Автор книги: Aimee McNeil
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Текущая страница: 15 (всего у книги 20 страниц)
Chapter
Twenty-Two
The next day Sophie wasn’t scheduled to work. She took advantage of the time to finish the intricate details of her mother’s dress. The dress was piecing together nicely and she could envision what her mother was going to look like as she walked down the aisle. Sophie’s fingers caressed the smooth, lush material and the lacework as she made every stitch. She took her time making sure that the seams were flawless and as perfect as her mother deserved.
Mel woke up earlier than usual. She was slowly adjusting to more regular hours since she was no longer working late nights at the club. She curled up on the sofa with her laptop, keeping Sophie company as they both worked on their projects. Soothing music was playing in the background and they each took turns making tea. It was almost noon when Sophie stepped back and admired her work.
“All finished,” she declared.
Mel hopped off the sofa to regard the finished product. “Holy fucking shit balls. Your mother is going to die when she sees this dress.”
“I hope she likes it. I want it to be perfect for her.” Sophie fluffed the skirting and ran her fingers over the seams, making sure she didn’t miss anything.
“You are fabulous. Everything you do is fabulous…and that’s why we should go into business together.” Mel’s eyes widened with hope. “I’ve been doing some research. I think we should open a tea and cookie shop. Ever since you mentioned it yesterday it has been running through my brain over and over. It feels right. I think we should go for it.”
“Wow. Okay. I need to think about it.”
“Yay!” Mel hugged her.
“I said I would think about it.”
“I’m just excited you didn’t say no. I thought you were gonna laugh in my face,” Mel confessed.
“Thought about it.” Sophie chuckled. Mel gently slapped her arm. “I was joking. What we have to do is make a plan and see how feasible it is.”
Sophie and Mel sat down for the rest of the afternoon trying to put together a business plan. Sophie was surprised how much experience Mel had with how a bakery runs from her family’s business. The Internet gave them access to endless information about starting up similar companies and what’s involved. After researching costs, the start-up fees added up.
“I think I gave up stripping too soon. I might have to go back to work for a while.” Mel sounded a little deflated.
“We’ll figure it out, but the thing that’s working against us is the fact that that neither one of us is familiar with running a business. Let me talk to Margaret and ask her if she knows a good business consultant we can hire and iron out the details before we try to approach anyone for financing.” Sophie added some more notes to their growing list.
“I’m starting to get some savings from the amazing pay from Margaret. She has a lot of contacts and she’s been involved in a few local companies. It wouldn’t hurt. Until then, you can figure out what we’ll be selling. The red velvet cookies and the thumb drops are definitely in, they are highly addictive. I hope you realize this business could be very bad for our waistline.” Sophie laughed.
When they finally stopped working, night had already taken over the sky and the stars were struggling to make their appearance through the city lights. After all their research they were both in a good head space for what they had to work toward if they were going to make this a reality.
“Are we really gonna do this?” Mel asked, curled up beside Sophie in their dark apartment.
“Yes. I think we are.” Sophie admitted. “Let’s go for it. What do we have to lose?”
“All of our money.”
“True. I guess if it doesn’t work out I’ll have to join you on stage for your comeback show.” Sophie laughed.
“I highly doubt Mr. Hot Ass will let you back into that place, let alone up on stage after last time.”
“I have no idea where that’s going. He could be long gone by that point.” Sophie said sadly.
“God-boy looks at you like you’re the key to unlocking the mysteries of the universe. I highly doubt he has plans to go anywhere.”
“I don’t feel like the key to his anything.” Sophie laughed Mel’s comment off.
“I’m serious.”
“I don’t want to talk about it.”
“Fine. What is your mom gonna say when you tell her that you’re going into business with the crazy stripper?”
“I was thinking I might not tell her.” Sophie laughed. “Seriously though, I think she’s warmed up to you. It has been a couple of years now. I mean, who doesn’t eventually fall for your delightful character?”
“True.”
***
The next day Sophie arrived at Margaret’s early. The morning was unusually warm for the early hour. The night air brought no relief and the day threatened to bring an unruly heat. Sophie was glad she'd decided to wear her pale green sundress. It was lightweight, making it perfect for hot days. She always received compliments whenever she wore it because it matched her eyes. She wanted Ashton to notice her, despite Lucinda’s arrival and what it potentially meant. As much as Sophie tried to push him from taking center stage in her mind, she couldn’t stop her heart from thumping to the beat of Ashton’s song. Sophie ran her fingers through her hair before she knocked on the door.
“Good morning, Miss Sophie,” Charlotte said brightly as she swung open the door. “How are you this morning?”
“Great. Yourself?” Sophie asked, stepping into the house and looking around.
Charlotte chuckled. “He’s not here, dear. He went back to his place, but I’m sure he’ll be back soon. That boy is such a doting grandson to Mrs. Margaret. Never too far away.”
“Oh. I wasn’t looking for him,” Sophie denied.
“Of course.” Charlotte smiled, seemingly unconvinced. “Margaret is in the sitting room having her tea.”
Margaret was dressed and ready to take on the day when she walked in. “Good morning. How was your weekend?”
“It was great. I didn’t know that Ashton had a place around here.” She found herself speaking before she could stop herself.
“I’m surprised he didn’t tell you. He found a place shortly after he moved back into town and had it renovated. It turned out beautifully.”
Sophie decided to change the subject. Margaret was far too perceptive and she didn’t want to expose her feelings for Ashton. She didn’t know what Margaret would think of her lusting after her grandson. She didn’t want to upset her. “I finished my mother’s dress yesterday. She’s coming up this week to try it on. I’m keeping my fingers crossed. I’m very nervous.”
“I’m sure she’ll love it, I know what you’re capable of and I have no doubt that it’s a beautiful dress.” Margaret smiled, sipping on her tea. “I have some good news for you,” Margaret said mischievously. Sophie couldn’t help but smile at Margaret’s lively mood. “Sit and pour some tea.” Margaret waved her toward the other armchair adjacent to her own. Sophie sat down and let herself sink into the cushions.
“Okay, spill.” Sophie encouraged now that she was settled.
“Mr. Heshman, the gentleman who purchased your paintings at the auction, contacted me and requested to meet with you. He’s interested in showing some of your work in his gallery.”
“Really?” Sophie couldn’t help the ridiculous smile that consumed her face. “He wants to show my work?”
“Yes, dear.” Margaret chuckled with amusement. “I told him you would contact him today and set up the meeting.”
“That would be a dream!”
Sophie was barely able to hold the phone as she dialed Mr. Heshman later that morning. She was so nervous that she had to concentrate on keeping her voice steady and professional. He was a perfect gentleman on the other end of the line, going over details of what he had in mind. He was making changes at his gallery for a scheduled reopening. He wanted to present some new, fresh work and thought Sophie’s style was the perfect fit for what he was looking for. Mr. Heshman made an appointment with her to view her other work. When Sophie hung up her phone, she was overcome with excitement.
“Yay!” she said to herself in disbelief. It was every artist’s dream to be recognized and given the opportunity for exposure.
“Someone just got good news.” Ashton’s velvety voice startled her. She turned around to see him standing in the kitchen behind her. He wore a dress shirt and fitted blazer that was paired with jeans—a style that looked incredibly hot on him.
“Oh. I didn’t know you were here.” Sophie’s voice was slightly higher than she intended, making her want to cringe.
“What’s this?” He picked up a business card that Sophie had sat on top of her things. “Business consultant? Planning on conducting some business?”
Sophie grabbed the card from his hand and tucked it inside her bag. “Maybe. It’s someone Margaret suggested. I heard you have a new place nearby.” Sophie turned back to meet his gaze, changing the subject.
“Yep.”
“You didn’t tell me.” Sophie suddenly realized how little she knew about his life.
He shrugged his shoulders. “We were busy talking about other things and busy not talking.” He smiled but the feeling did not translate to his eyes.
“The man who bought my painting at the auction wants to display some of my work at his gallery,” Sophie blurted out. The news was too much to keep to herself and she wanted to share it with him.
“That’s great news.” Sophie watched the curve of his lips and found herself wanting to feel them upon her. Ashton stepped forward as if reading her thoughts.
“Don’t.” Sophie tried to pull back. He looked down at her with a pained expression, as if her rejection physically hurt him. “Yesterday when I saw you and Lucinda together it scared me and made me question what I’m doing.”
“No. Don’t question anything. There is nothing between me and Lucinda. I told you that none of that was real.” Ashton looked at her pleadingly.
“But it felt real to me,” Sophie whispered. Ashton’s hand caressed her cheek and his thumb gently traced her bottom lip.
“I’m sorry for any pain that I ever caused you,” he whispered.
They both turned abruptly as Charlotte hurried into the kitchen with a panicked expression. “Come quickly. It’s your grandmother.” Charlotte exchanged a worried look with Ashton before all three of them hurried toward the sitting room.
Margaret was leaning against the arm of the sofa when they walked in the room. Her normally flawless upswept hair was disheveled and she looked pale, accentuating the dark circles that had developed under her tired eyes. “I’ll be fine.” Margaret looked up at all their stricken faces. “I just slipped.” She waved her hand lazily, trying to brush off any concern.
“She collapsed when she tried to stand.” Charlotte told on her despite the look Margaret gave her. “I helped her get up.”
“Sophie, call her doctor and tell him that we’re on the way.” Ashton was immediately at Margaret’s side.
“Of course.” Sophie hesitantly backed away. Fear closed in on her; she was still clueless as to what was ailing Margaret.
“I told you I’m fine. I just need a moment to collect myself,” Margaret insisted.
“Stop being so stubborn,” Charlotte ordered Margaret. “We aren’t going to ignore this, Margaret.” It was then that Sophie knew how deep Margaret and Charlotte’s relationship ran. Charlotte’s concern was for that of a loved one, not just an employer. The years they had spent together formed a bond between the two women.
Dr. Reynolds’ receptionist informed Sophie that he would see her upon arrival without consulting the doctor first. Sophie was surprised by how accommodating the doctor was.
After her phone call, Sophie found Ashton helping Margaret in the passenger’s side of her car. “Dr. Reynolds will see her when she arrives at his office.”
“Good.” Ashton closed Margaret’s door and moved around to get in the driver’s side. His features were set and determined.
“I want to come,” Sophie declared. Ashton hesitated for a moment until he opened the rear door. “Thank you.” Sophie slipped in the back of the car. “How are you feeling now, Margaret?” Sophie asked, reaching over the seat and placing her hand on Margaret’s shoulder.
Margaret reached up and covered Sophie’s hand with hers. “I will be fine, dear. Don’t worry about this old woman.”
“Too late.”
***
Sophie sat in the waiting room next to Ashton. Neither one had said a word since they were told to wait while the doctor examined Margaret. Dr. Reynolds’ office was sleek and modern with everything in its place. White on white was the color scheme of the waiting room and nothing spoke of comfort. Sophie couldn’t help but think of how some colorful paintings upon the walls could change the feel of the room entirely from the cold sterile feel that was exuded now. A row of magazines were fanned out on the table in front of them, with all the latest gossip displayed, but Sophie couldn’t bring herself to focus on anything that could distract her from her thoughts. Margaret had been quiet on the ride, which only intensified Sophie’s worry.
Sophie watched Ashton’s knee bounce nervously beside her. Sophie didn’t know what to think; she had no idea how ill Margaret was, and sitting in an oncologist’s office waiting for word didn’t do anything to ease her concern. She had so many questions that were struggling to reach her lips but Ashton’s sombre mood made her refrain.
Sophie reached over and took Ashton’s hand in hers, intertwining her fingers in his and giving a comforting squeeze. He looked up at her then, his eyes a deep blue glazed with unshed tears. The worry for his grandmother was written all over his beautiful features. Sophie smiled softly and leaned in against his shoulder. He released her hand and wrapped his arm around her shoulders, pulling her closer. They stayed like that until the doctor came out to speak to Ashton. They both stood quickly as Dr. Reynolds approached.
Dr. Reynolds was a well-kept man with salt and pepper hair and a strong jaw. He wore his success in the way he carried himself. He seemed a gentleman in every sense of the word. Sophie couldn’t help but notice how his white medical coat was cut to show that even in his late forties he still maintained his prime physical form. He was a very impressive man and it was easy to fall for his genuine charm.
“I feel it necessary to move up your grandmother’s surgery. She has agreed to be admitted immediately.”
Ashton nodded in agreement. “Can we speak with her?
“Of course. Follow me.” They followed Dr. Reynolds to his examination room.
“I owe you an apology, Sophie, for not telling you of my health dilemma earlier. I wanted to save you any unnecessary worry.” Margaret reached out toward Sophie.
“You owe me no such thing,” Sophie disagreed. She took Margaret’s hand in her own.
“I have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer.” Margaret smiled sadly as she squeezed Sophie’s hand. “Fortunately it has been discovered early enough. I have no plans to let this beat me. I have every intention of dancing at my grandson’s wedding one day.” Margaret smiled at Ashton, who was standing quietly by her side. “Now…” Margaret sat up straighter, turning her attention to Dr. Reynolds. “Let’s get me better, shall we?”
“Yes, we shall.” Dr. Reynolds’ smile was authentic and it made all three of them relax under its effect. His belief in Margaret’s recovery convinced Sophie to relax and to stop the panic that held her in its grip. They had hope that Margaret would recover well.
Chapter
Twenty-Three
Sophie sat in her apartment staring at a painting she had just finished, making sure the colors blended to her satisfaction. She wanted it to be perfect for when Mr. Heshman came to view her work. She had managed to create a stock pile of canvases over the past year and was happy with the selection she could place in his gallery. Even though her skills as an artist had been confirmed many times over by her professors and other people in the industry, self-doubt seemed to pull at her, questioning what Mr. Heshman would think of her pieces. This was the moment she was waiting for, to have herself out there for the world to see. She only wished she felt more confident instead of vulnerable.
When Sophie got home from the restaurant, Mel wasn’t home. She had left a note on the counter saying that she wouldn’t be back until tomorrow, complete with a winking smiley face at the bottom. The smiley face confirmed she was with Dustin. Sophie placed the business consultant card on the counter with their business plan and other paperwork they had gathered. A smile lightened her face; she was excited with the possibility of owning a business. She knew it wouldn’t be easy but she didn’t mind the challenge. Work was something she was always willing to throw herself into.
Sophie called the clinic. She wanted to check up on how Margaret was feeling. Her surgery was scheduled for tomorrow and Sophie was nervous. The nurse informed her that Margaret was sleeping and didn’t want to disturb her. Sophie tried to call Ashton as well and was only met with his answering machine. Sophie decided to distract herself with a painting she wanted to finish.
Sophie turned her iPod up as loud as she could stand it and sat in front of her painting. She wanted to drown out the worries that haunted her. Warmth pulled at her skin to the point of discomfort—the day had been relentless. Sophie hopped off her stool and checked the air conditioner. The air that was being pushed into the room was warm. “Come on!” Sophie complained as she turned it on full but it only continued to push warm air through its vent. “Great. I guess I have a date with Mr. Cleary tomorrow,” Sophie mumbled to herself. Sophie struggled to open the old wooden case window that groaned as she managed to pry it open. “That will have to do.” Sophie sighed. Unfortunately there wasn’t even the slightest breeze.
Sophie pulled off her shirt and pants. It brought some relief without her clothes. She tucked her iPod in her bra and went back to her stool. Taking down her finished painting, she grabbed a new canvas and set it up. Ideas flashed through her mind. She loved looking at a blank canvas and letting her mind get inspired to transform it. Sophie became lost in her creation. A gentle caress against her shoulder startled her and her paintbrush slipped from her hand, luckily missing the canvas as it dropped to the floor. Sophie pulled out her earphones and turned around.
“Ashton!” Sophie cried out. His arms wrapped around her tight, his lips teasing the sensitive flesh of her neck.
“I am so turned on right now,” he whispered against her ear, sending shivers through her.
“How did you get in?” Sophie looked up into his face. His eyes were dark and beautiful. It always amazed her how handsome he was as he looked at her hungrily.
Ashton nodded toward the open window. “You weren’t answering your phone and I saw your light was on, so I climbed up.”
Sophie’s eyes widened. “Guess I better not leave my window open anymore. I don’t want strange guys climbing in my window.”
“No, you don’t.” Ashton’s smile melted her. “I needed to talk to you. You scared me yesterday.” The fear in his words tore at her. Sophie reached up and ran her hands over his hard chest. His hands cupped the sides of her face before he brought his lips down to kiss her forehead and pull her close.
Sophie pulled back and saw the desperation in his eyes. She never expected to have this much of a hold on Ashton. It was a new concept for her and she still expected to wake up from this dream. The elation of this realization made her head swim and her need burn in white hot fury. She pulled herself up and crushed her lips against his. Sophie grabbed handfuls of his shirt, pulling him closer even though there was no space between their bodies. Ashton lifted his shirt over his head and let go of his hold only long enough to discard it before his hands found her again.
Ashton lifted Sophie, pressing her against his hard body, and walked toward her bed, laying her down. “You are so fucking beautiful.” He stood up to discard his jeans on the floor. She could feel her skin heat under his gaze. He leaned over her and kissed her lips softly before trailing down her neck. “I’m yours,” he whispered against her skin, making a smile blossom on Sophie’s swollen lips. This has to be a dream! Don’t wake up. Don’t wake up!
“And I am yours,” she whispered in response. Ashton leaned up to see her face.
“That’s the best thing I ever heard.” His happiness was infectious. Sophie touched his face. “And you are the best thing I have ever seen.” Ashton reached behind her to unclasp her bra. “I feel like I’m going to wake up any minute, because this feels too fucking good to be real.”
Ashton slid his hand down her body, discarding her underwear on the floor with the rest of his clothes. Sophie was addicted to the feel of his body against hers. She loved the taste of him, his smell, and his touch. Her fingers played every line of his body as she took advantage of the sensuality he embodied. Ashton pressed himself between her legs. “You feel so good.” Everything he did brought her intense pleasure, as if he knew the secrets of her body.
“Knowing I was your first makes me very happy.” Ashton looked into Sophie’s eyes. “The other night was the best night of my life…thank you.”
“I know how you feel.” Sophie ran her fingers over his hard stomach and let her touch wander further. She was intrigued by how beautiful his manhood was as it pulsed with desire. She leaned down and kissed him there, inviting him into her warm mouth. Sophie began to slowly explore him, memorizing the feel of him as she found pleasure in giving Ashton pleasure.
Ashton growled as she released him and then climbed over his body to straddle him. His hands never left her skin as she eased herself onto his steely length. “Say you’re mine,” Ashton whispered heatedly.
“I’m yours.” Sophie leaned down and whispered against his lips. “Only yours.” A moan escaped Ashton’s mouth as Sophie began to move against him, his body wound tight underneath her. Sophie responded to the pleasure he gave her, losing herself to the intense feeling that captured her. When Sophie cried out in release, Ashton followed immediately and they both collapsed against the bed.
The feelings she had for Ashton were magical, beautiful, and captivated her beyond anything she ever imagined. She lay beside him and ran his fingers over his tanned, perfect skin.
“I think I am addicted to you.” Ashton’s voice was raspy from their passionate exchange.
“I can live with that.” She moved closer to him and nuzzled his neck. His smell was so enticing, his heat comforting, and everything about him enchanted her. She knew without a doubt that she was addicted to him as well but admitting how deep her feelings ran scared her. A part of her was still scared of getting hurt. “I’m glad you broke into my apartment tonight.”
“Me too…let’s go get an ice cream.” Ashton looked at her playfully. “It’s hot as shit in here.”
“Now?” Sophie giggled at his sudden playful mood.
“Yes, right now. I want to take you out for ice cream.” He stood up and pulled on his pants. Sophie watched the way his muscles rippled. It was sinful how strong and attractive his body was.
“Ice cream does sound good, but so does staying in bed.” Sophie smiled wickedly.
“Oh, we’ll be going back to bed after, just not this bed. I want you in my bed.” He grabbed Sophie’s hand and helped her stand, pulling her against his chest and kissing her on the top of the head.
“Your place?”
“Yes, my place. I want to see what you look like in my bed.”
***
Ashton had taken Sophie to a late night diner that had a ridiculously large selection of flavors. Sophie stared through the glass, trying to narrow down her choice. “Wow…I think I will go with the…cookies ’n cream…or no, make that mint chocolate chip.” Sophie looked up to see Ashton watching her with an amused grin on his face. “What?”
“You look so adorable right now.” He winked as he leaned against the counter.
“Adorable? Seriously? That is what you call little kids.” Sophie huffed with a furrowed brow.
“You are definitely adorable and sexy as fuck. Come here.” Ashton reached for her arm and pulled her against his chest and nipped at her neck.
“Hey!” Sophie giggled. “We have an audience.” Sophie widened her eyes and nodded toward the few late night customers that were scattered through the small diner. There was a man dressed in a suit, his tie loosened and hung haphazardly around his neck; he was completely lost in his computer. An older gentleman sat tucked in a booth reading a paper with a half-eaten piece of cherry pie sitting in front of him. There was a middle aged couple sitting together next to the window sharing a late night meal of burgers and fries as they chatted casually. They seemed to be the only ones that even seemed to notice her and Ashton’s presence, looking up occasionally with polite smiles.
“What?” Ashton looked around the diner consisting of about fifteen tables and booths lining the back wall. It was small and in need of some updating but it was cozy and welcoming. You could tell that whoever owned it had taken care of it, but it had aged like the owner.
“They look like they could use some entertainment.” Ashton’s look made her knees weak.
“How did you know about this place and its many flavors of ice cream?” Sophie asked.
“When I was little my grandfather always brought me here. My favorite times were when I slept over. I always had trouble sleeping as a child and he would bring me here in my pajamas no matter how late it was. I naturally thought that was the coolest thing knowing that my mother would have a fit. My grandfather believed ice cream solved every problem.” Ashton said thoughtfully.
“Wouldn’t that be nice?” Sophie smiled at the thought of a young Ashton sitting with his grandfather eating ice cream in one of the booths.
“Sorry for keeping you waiting. Did you decide yet?” An older woman with vibrant red hair streaked with white shuffled out from the back room carrying supplies. She set them on the counter before turning her full attention toward them. Despite her age a youthful brightness shone in her eyes and lit up her features.
“Yes, we have.” Ashton smiled with recognition.
“It’s been a long time but don’t think I don’t know who you are, Ashton King. Get your handsome self over here and give this old woman a hug.” She came around the counter with her arms spread wide. “It’s good to see you, and who have you brought with you?” She smiled at Sophie. “She is absolutely gorgeous. Where did you find such a lovely girl?”
“I know. I can’t believe my good fortune.” Ashton smiled. “Colleen, this is my girlfriend, Sophie. Sophie, this is Colleen. Colleen has the best selection of ice cream in the whole city.”
“I know what’s important. The ice cream is what keeps all the best customers coming back.” Colleen took Sophie’s hand, giving it a gentle shake.
“It’s nice to meet you, Colleen.” Sophie loved the woman’s energy and instantly adored her.
“The pleasure is all mine, sweetheart.”
Sitting in a booth, Sophie and Ashton enjoyed their ice creams. Sophie was in a state of bliss. Every time Ashton looked at her she felt like she was the most important girl in the world. His eyes followed her and a sexy smile teased her. She noted their late night ice cream adventure as one of her favorite evenings of all time. The conversation between them flowed effortlessly and the excitement only built with the promise of things to come when Ashton brought her back to his place. She loved how he leaned toward her, or reached for her hand. Every touch made her desire more.
After a farewell to the friendly waitress, Sophie followed Ashton out into the warm night air. Ashton’s hand found hers and he brought them up to his lips. When they reached his car he pulled her against his chest. Sophie's fingers stroked the hard ridges of his abs beneath his shirt to indulge in his sensual flesh.
“You’re driving me crazy, Sophie,” he whispered hotly in her ear, making goosebumps flash across her skin.
“Oh yeah?” Sophie laughed.
“Yes, it’s so hard to keep my hands to myself. I can’t think straight around you. I just want to touch you…and taste you.” Sophie shivered from his words as they caressed her skin.
“I don’t remember you being the public display of affection kind of guy. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not complaining.” Sophie leaned into his embrace.
“I wasn’t until you. I can’t get enough.” Ashton gently bit the skin of her neck, causing a flash of needy heat to overcome her.
“We should probably go to your place now,” Sophie said breathlessly.
“After you.” Ashton reached around her to open her door.
On the drive to Ashton’s place Sophie saw a small storefront building that had a lease sign in the window. The building had character with its brick front and large showcase windows. “Can you pull over?”
“What’s wrong?”
“I just want to see something.”
When Ashton pulled over on the side of the street, Sophie slipped out of the car and approached the building. The interior was dark and she couldn’t see anything inside but she could see potential in the location and the appearance of the storefront.
“It was a pizza shop…why the interest?” Ashton stepped around her to see her face, studying her expression.
“Wouldn’t you like to know?” Sophie teased. “Just interested for future possibilities.” Sophie pulled out her phone and took a picture of the sign. She looked up at Ashton, who was waiting for her to explain. “Mel and I have plans…well, we are in the very beginning of the planning stage, but still, this place makes me excited. It would be perfect.”
“You and Mel are making plans? Should I even ask?”
“We’re opening our own strip joint. I want to give it a try.” Sophie tried to sound serious but Ashton’s expression turned almost panicked as he stared at her. “I was joking…are you nervous I would make a fool of myself trying to do my “Don’t Cha” routine for the world to see?”
Ashton looked visibly relieved with her confession. “No, I was thinking that I was going to have to buy up every available piece of real estate in the city to prevent your little business endeavor.”
Sophie’s face fell in shock. “I was that bad? Geez.”
