Page 90 of A Win-Win Situation
"How does she look at me?"
"As though you’re the missing piece of her puzzle. It’s the way her eyes light up when she catches a glimpse of you and how she tries to hide a smile every time you walk in. This girl is head over heels in love with you," Liam replies, his voice, filled with a knowing warmth that reassures me and makes my heart race all at once.
Is she in love with me?
"When did you grow up to be all wise?" I ask him, a smile tugging at the corners of my lips.
Liam pats me on the back and gives me a reassuring squeeze. "You’ve got this, man. Just be honest with her. Why don’t you ask her to be your date to your annual charity dinner with the kids you help out? I bet she would love it. No one with a heart could say no to kids in need."
Why didn’t I think of that? When I told her about my charity, her eyes lit up like a lighthouse. I had considered skipping the dinner this year, not wanting to force her to spend time with me and pretend for a whole evening when she’s clearly uncomfortable and upset with me. But now, that's exactly what I want. Maybe a bit of pressure will help her see and feel the connection we truly have.
I smile gratefully at him. "That’s a great idea." I stand up, squeezing Liam's shoulder. "I’ll go ask her now."
With a sense of purpose, I make my way to Leora's office, my palms sweaty and a knot of nervousness tightening in my stomach. I approach her door and gently knock, waiting for her response.
"Come in." Her sweet voice welcomes me. As I step into her office, she lifts her head in greeting, her beautiful green eyes staring up at me.
"Lucas."
"Can we talk for a minute?"
"Oh, I actually have a lot to do." She averts her gaze back to her computer.
"It won’t take long." I proceed to take a seat on the chair in front of her desk. My eyes go to the picture of us hanging on the wall, and her gaze follows.
It’s a damn good picture.
Leora's eyes flicker with curiosity when they meet mine. There’s a hint of concern behind them, but she doesn't say anything yet.
"How does your evening look?" I know exactly how her schedule looks, and she knows it. But I want her to answer me.
She reaches up, her delicate fingers brushing against the strands of her hair, gently tucking it behind her ear. "I have no plans."
"Great, then you’ll accompany me tonight for my annual charity dinner."
"I’ll accompany you?" Her questioning tone, as always, adds to my already bubbling frustration. Why does she always have to fight me?
"Yes, you’ll be my date."
"Is that so?"
"Yes."
My words hang in the air, and in her eyes, I see something I haven’t seen in a while—something I’ve missed. Intrigue.
Before she can say "no," I add the most important part. "Some of the kids will be there. They would love to meet you."
As if on cue, her face morphs into that of pleasant surprise. Her eyes widen slightly, and there’s a genuine smile growing on her face that brightens the room. The mention of the children seems to have touched a soft spot within her. Liam was right.
"The kids would like to meetme?" she asks in disbelief.
I nod, my own smile spreading across my face. "Yes, they might have heard a thing or two about you." Last time I saw them, I spoke about her a lot and they begged to meet the woman I seem to be falling for. Even after presenting her to many people, introducing her to these kids will be even more special and cherished.
Leora’s expression softens even further, and a hint of blush colors her cheeks. "I would love to meet them, Lucas."
"Great, I guess we can round off the day and head home then."
Adingcomes from her phone, quickly diverting her attention. Her brows furrow as she lets out a huff.
