Duke stood close to her but removed his hand from her back, not wanting to freak her out. She smelled like a tart cherry pie—it was hard not to grab her and lick those luscious lips. “Thank you for what you said to Regina. That you like me when I’m being myself. Even as part of this Angel and Duke Show, that’s nice to hear.”

He realized as he was saying it how pitiful and insecure he sounded. Why am I begging for compliments? He took a gulp from his glass and stared out at the stars, so far away and untouchable. Were they real?

Angel raised an eyebrow. “When I first met you, I thought you were a regular guy. I honestly liked our conversation at the park, and watching you play with the kids, when I thought you were a construction worker or a delivery driver. Funny thing is, I think you were being the real you. Regina, though—la puta estupida. She’s a snotty bitch, to the core.”

He slugged back more of his drink and sighed, peering into the glass. Angel’s words made him warm, but the mention of Regina brought him back down. She is a bitch, but maybe not wrong about the booze. “I know,” he said. “She’s always been an A-one mean girl, but she was nice enough to me, in the beginning. Until I got hurt and couldn’t play. Or make money. She left when I was at my lowest.” He sucked his teeth. “Sorry to drag you into this. I didn’t know she’d be here tonight. Kinley should have said something.”

“I think Kinley assumed we’d act like adults and stay civil. That’s not my strong suit,” Angel said, the gold flecks in her brown eyes twinkling. He was sorry when her brow furrowed as she continued. “Speaking of Kinley … She said this dress was from her. When Aaron dropped it off at my apartment, he said it was from you. I didn’t appreciate Regina loudly pointing out I was wearing a borrowed dress, but I’m glad I know, so I can give it back. You should have told me.”

“I didn’t think about it.” I would love to have bought you that dress. Hot damn, girl. His eyes traveled up her sleek brown legs, her curved hips, and her full breasts. I’d love to get her into that lingerie boutique in midtown …

His phone beeped with an incoming text. He ignored it, but the phone beeped again.

“Sorry,” he said. He opened the message and his heart sank when he read the text:

You fired me, but your doctor doesn’t know that. He called, wants more money. We need to talk. I’ll be home tomorrow.

It was from his father.