Bad Decision

Anger coiled in the pit of my stomach, but shamefully, it did nothing to lessen the ache in my core. Darren inched closer, his eyes roaming up and down my body as if my dress wasn't a barrier enough to hide my skin, as if he could see me bare. A wave of heat washed over me. How I could be pissed at him while wanting him was beyond me, but I couldn't allow him to see my lack of control. My hands fisted into balls, allowing my anger to win.

“I believe that's none of your business,” I hissed.

“Ms. Hayes! I apologize for being late!” Grant Denson called out as he ran into the hall and halted in front of me.

I gave Darren a meaningful look before shifting my eyes to Grant. “It's all right. I came less than a minute ago,” I assured him, smiling.

He glanced at Darren, giving him a curt nod, and then he turned to me. “Shall we?” He gestured at the empty table by the window.

“Lead the way, Mr. Denson,” I told him.

Grant started walking. I was about to follow him when Darren grabbed my hand. “A