Until Barrett wraps a hand around each of my upper arms and leans down to kiss me on the cheek. It’s quick, a whisper of a kiss against my skin, yet his proximity, the scent of his cologne has my lady parts fluttering with excitement.

Jesus, if that’s all it takes, I really need to resolve to date more when this is over.

“I’ll be back at five o’clock, sir,” Marcus announces from behind us.

Barrett pulls away and acknowledges his driver with a nod.

When Marcus retreats into the car, I finally remember that before I laid eyes on his gorgeous face, I was mad at him.

“It’s not okay how you summoned me from my job. I can’t just leave work anytime you have a whim. I’m not your beck and call girl. When this charade is over, I still need to have a job, remember?” I take a breath, then glance toward the wooden doors. “What is it? What is so important? Did you seriously call me out of work to sit and watch you play?”

“We’re playing tennis with Fred and Frankie,” he says.

“What?” I ask, the octave of my voice rising with panic as I recall the lies that I told at dinner with Fred and Frankie about my tennis abilities.

He shrugs. “Fred called and I didn’t want to miss the opportunity to connect.”

He moves to open the door.

“Barrett,” I whisper-hiss. “I can’t play tennis.”

“Don’t worry, they have loner racquets and a pro shop where you can get an outfit.”

“No. It’s not that. I was lying when I said that I was state champ in high school. I thought I was helping you out. Giving you more in common with Fred and Frankie. I never realized we’d actually be playing tennis with them.”

“You’ve got to be kidding me.” I can hear his molars grinding.

My mouth pinches together at his exasperated tone. “It was supposed to be one date, remember?”

“We’re not backing out now. We’ll figure it out. Tell them you’re injured. A minor injury that allows you to play but not very well.”

“Ah, yes, more lies.”

“It’s harmless. Besides, I was planning to let them win anyways, so your handicap will make it more believable.”

I stare at Barrett. I don’t know whether to be horrified or impressed by the lengths that he’s going to for this business deal. I’ve heard he’s an impressive businessman, but also that he can be ruthless, calculating and self-serving. A vulture that preys on the weak.

I make a mental note not to let him get his claws into me anymore than he already has.

“Fine,” I say sharply, motioning for him to lead the way.