Lahat ng Kabanata ng Club Red: Sin And Seduction : Kabanata 161 - Kabanata 170

“Three people can keep a secret if two are dead.” As soon as I say the words, I clap a hand over my mouth in horror and disbelief. For a full minute, I just stare at him, noting the amusement sparkling in his eyes. “I swear that's a quote from a true crime show I watched.” He shakes his index finger at me. “If you say so. But if I see any freshly dug earth in your backyard, or your front yard for that matter, I'm calling the cops.” I nod my head in agreement. “After that statement, I wouldn't expect any less from you.” He glances toward the door. “Well, I guess I should get going.” Despite his words, he hesitates, eyeing me. “Unless there's some other reason I should stay?” The short question tells me he knows exactly what I was planning on doing. My cheeks sting and I gently bite my tongue as if that’ll stop me from blurting out something stupid. Since when am I so unsure of what to say or do? If it was anyone else in my office, I would absolutely be in control, in charge, right

“Everybody can sing.” I'm not about to let her get out of it that easily. At this point, I think one of my fantasies is to see her in some cute revealing outfit while she sings some upbeat song about how boys always break her heart. She shakes her head. “No, trust me, I really can't sing. Like if I even tried, every dog on the block would start howling their heads off and every human would jump out of the highest window available.” She takes another bite of her food, her eyes sparkling with laughter. “Okay, now I need to know if you're really that bad.” I say the words lighthearted as a joke, but I really do want to hear her sing. I don't think there's anything I wouldn't want to see or hear her do, though. It's an out of place thought that surprises me - why would I care? Why does it matter? “Well, if I ever need to drive you out of my life for good, I will make sure to sing for you.” Though I know she's still joking, I don't like the sound of those words, or the thought of her

“And I realize that was not your intent, but that is what happened. No matter what your intentions may have been, it was upsetting, and you didn't apologize. Instead, you just pretended like nothing was wrong.” I am appreciative that he's willing to discuss this like adults rather than just throw a temper tantrum about it or tell me I'm an unreasonable, emotional, hormonal, hysterical woman. My reasons for staying out of the dating pool aren't just because I want to focus on my career, but because it’s been tough for me to find someone I’m actually interested in. I need someone that discusses things like an adult. Someone who's willing to learn and grow. Someone who doesn't think that they're just perfect as is and stay stagnant forever. I know I certainly have room for improvement, but so does any potential mate that I might take. I want someone I can grow with; hopefully we can even grow together. “That makes sense, and I'm sorry I hurt your feelings. It was just intended to be

“Can't make an omelet without breaking a few eggs.” “I'm not sure I would equate losing friendships with preparing food.” I let out a chuckle and Hunter nods in agreement. “I guess you have a point there. Want to get a drink?” It's as if he read my mind. “A drink isn't even optional at this point.” As if on cue, we both head to the nearest room with a bar. A moment later, we're still settling on stools next to one another as the bartender pours our drinks. The woman on the other side of the counter locks eyes with me and there's a flirtatious smile on her lips. Her smoky makeup brings out the bright blue of her eyes and the tip of her tongue rests between her lips as she focuses. She's exactly the kind of woman I would usually be lusting after, but tonight, I’m not interested. “I think Blake is right. Give Rico some time and he'll come around.” Hunter downs his drink and nods at the bartender, indicating he'd like another. I take a thoughtful swallow of my whiskey, locking eyes

“I was just wondering if any of the guys he hung out with are single and hot?” With the glass to her lips, ready to take a drink, she snorts. A gentle breeze kicks up and the tree branches overhead rush like flowing water as the cool air combats the warmth of summer. “That is diabolical. I'll check.” We both laugh, and I know she doesn't mean words. Neither of us are that kind of person. Still, it's fun to make light of the heavy situation. “Look, he screwed up. If he doesn't realize what he lost, then he's dumber than I ever thought.” I take a deep drink of my wine. “Besides, you make to-die-for donuts. I'd rather cut off my own arm than risk losing the delicious treats you make.” Of course, I'm kidding. Mostly. She really does make amazing baked goods - So good that I'd had a donut in my mouth before I even closed the door behind her when she showed up. She nods her head, clearly agreeing with my assessment. “Right. Anybody would be stupid to screw up with me. No more baked tre