Chloe stops again. “No, no, no. I thought I was just here for decoration. Now I’m supposed to be pretending to be your girlfriend?”

“Why is that a problem?” I ask.

“A little background would have been nice. How did we meet? How long have we been together? Things that could have been discussed if you actually picked me up.”

“I was busy with work.”

“On a Saturday?” she asks.

“I work every day,” I reply.

“You must really love your job.”

“Love has nothing to do with it. I work hard because people depend on me. SCM is the top media company in the country and I intend to keep it that way. This dinner is important. I need it to go well. I’ve got a business deal in the works with Fred. His company is up for sale, or will be soon, and I need him to like me in order to be the one to purchase it when it does.”

“And he doesn’t like you now?” Her lack of surprise is evident. The way her lips quirk to one side and her eyes widen with feigned shock.

I shrug. “He doesn’t know me. This dinner will help him get to know me better.”

“Yeah, I can definitely see how bringing a fake girlfriend to dinner will strengthen your bond. It’s all making sense now.”

“I need you to appeal to his girlfriend, Frankie. Keep her engaged so I can talk with Fred.”

“Are you calling me charming?” She smirks.

“It’s a stretch, but I’m sure you’ll figure it out.”

I place my hand on Chloe’s back as we walk through the door and to the host stand. I shouldn’t be surprised that my hand nearly spans the width of her. I lower down so my mouth is near her ear. “I know how much you value your job, so I know you’ll figure it out.”

My hand detects a quiver moving down Chloe’s spine, but she keeps her gaze ahead.

I check in with the hostess and she motions for us to follow her.

Fred and Frankie are already seated at the table when we arrive. They stand up and I make the introductions. I do a double take when I see Frankie’s dress. It appears to be the exact same dress as Chloe’s, except in a bright fuchsia color. Frankie is a good six inches taller than Chloe so what was short on Chloe is barely covering Frankie’s assets. I suck in a breath, wondering how this is going to go. Experience has taught me that women don’t like it when they are dressed similarly.

“Girl, I love your dress!” Frankie beams. “Is Balmain not the best designer ever? Fits like a glove. Fred could barely keep his hands off me in the car.”

I guess in Frankie’s case, she enjoys not being the only one half-dressed for dinner.