Lost Me Gained Regret

Christine was sharp as a tack, immediately catching on to Dailey's game.

This guy, all high and mighty on the surface, was actually testing her.

If she asked Merritt to leave, it would play right into his hands.

Clearing the field, letting Merritt go - it was all just a sideways confirmation that she hadn't truly moved on from him.

In her heart, he still held a place more significant than any new flame.

Christine's smile was tinged with irony. "I refuse, Mr. Clarkson. If you don't let go of me right now, I'll have my little brother call Jane."

"Imagine, a young man calling Jane at this hour. What do you think, Gregory would do?"

Silence fell.

Who knew Gregory's temperament better than Dailey?

And Christine was indeed someone who would follow through with such a threat.

Finally, his grip on her loosened and she swiftly moved away from him, arm in arm with Merritt.

Even the autumn chill that necessitated a trench coat over her slip dress couldn't hide her allure.

elegantly slender legs as they moved was a sight

resist throwing a taunting smile back at

felt it beneath him to spar with such

youth, Merritt had no

first encounter, Dailey had someone dig into

broken family, a sick grandmother relying on him, a life

entertainment world was just a quick way to earn money

he was hardly worth

was probably just using the situation to play

sis, he's been following you. I'm worried. Let me walk you upstairs," Merritt

presence. She wasn't scared, just didn't want to

if Merritt didn't escort her, Dailey

refuse Merritt's

a leisurely pace, watching as Christine and Merritt reached the automatic doors.

steps, pulling

neither side willing

air was thick

The night watchman, initially

looking for her, ended up

Another suitor, it seemed.

Quite the lively night.