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He slowed his pace, as her strides weren’t as long as his.
Living downtown had its perks. There were plenty of shops and restaurants within walking distance. The skyscrapers, and the culture of downtown living was addicting.
“Well, since we went to two places you wanted to go, I actually need to stop and pick up a few things.” He motioned toward the shopping center, Tower City, a mixed facility composed of office buildings, shopping, and a casino.
Alana enjoyed browsing through the fancy stores. Once in a while, she would indulge herself and buy something expensive, but she preferred supporting the local Mom and Pop establishments.
“What type of things do you need?” she asked as they arrived at the entrance, where he opened the door for her. She brushed past him and entered the department store with him close behind.
“Well, I figured since I have a big meeting soon, I should get a new shirt and tie.” He guided them through the high-priced store to the men’s section. Her gaze landed on a few price tags, and she swallowed hard.
“I’m sure you’ll want to look your best.”
London reached back and took her hand in his. Bringing her to his side, he wrapped his arm around her shoulders.
Alana took notice of a few women dressed in heels and expensive dresses, all throwing appreciative glances toward London. But he paid them no mind.
“If I can land this deal, it’ll be monumental for my company.”
“Can I help you, sir?” a young woman inquired as she approached. She was tall and thin, with long blonde hair. Her make-up was flawless, and her dress showed off her slender figure. Everything about her screamed fake. She was all smiles, with her gaze locked on London. Not once did she glance Alana’s way. “My name is Rebecca, and I’d be happy to help you.”
Bitch.
Alana stiffened. Memories of the other women she had watched come and go from London’s apartment came to mind.
Rebecca would fit right in with them.
This was the kind of woman he preferred.
Trying to step away from London, he tightened his hold on her.
“Yes, Rebecca. I’m looking for a nice dress shirt and tie for a meeting,” London shared with the store associate. He offered a small smile, but it didn’t quite reach his eyes.
“Why yes, I can help you with that.” Her smile grew even brighter as she motioned for them to walk with her. “You can call me Becky. I didn’t catch your name.”
Wow. Becky was laying it on pretty thick with her megawatt smile, and she hadn’t once looked at Alana.
“Because I didn’t give it,” he replied dryly. “It’s London, and this is my dear friend, Alana.”
“Nice to meet you both.”
Alana blew out a deep breath and offered a fake smile of her own. If he needed to shop for a few things, she could go browse around so he wouldn’t be distracted by her. It sounded as if this meeting was pretty important.
She tried to pull away, but this time, he entwined their fingers together. He frowned when she tried to pull away again.
“I can go look at some things while you’re doing—”
“Nonsense. I want your opinion.”
Tightening his hold on her hand, he tugged her to him, dropping a kiss on her forehead. “Stay with me. Please.”
Alana met his gaze and felt herself falter.
That damn accent of his.
He knew what he was doing by laying it on thick.
Alana gave a jerk of her head. She would stay with him if it was what he wanted. She glanced at Becky, who still had her fake smile in place, but Alana saw the hint of disappointment at not being alone with London in her eyes.
