Danny (Models On Top #1) by S. L. Scott Read Free Book Online Page B

so combustible it’s hot.”
    Combustible—a truer word never spoken. But deep down, I can’t help but want to look amazing in front of him. Make him regret what he let go. “Help me look my best?”
    “You got it, babe. Meet me tomorrow at four sharp.”
    Standing there a minute longer, a debate rages inside. As much as I find Danny attractive, still find him attractive, we were never meant to be or we would be together now. Damn those broad shoulders and the strong hands that used to hold me.
    There is so much to handle back in New York, him to deal with. I’m in no position to even think about a relationship, much less one with Danny Weston.
    Vinnie pushes me playfully toward the bathroom, and demands, “Go change out of that dress and let’s go back to my room with the hot boy view.”
    The next day it’s T-minus two hours to dinner and I’m standing on a pedestal in the middle of the Vittori on Rodeo showroom with no less than four salesclerks critiquing me in an over-the-top design. I shift uncomfortably under the stiff satin and knock the large flower on my shoulder to the side so it doesn’t hit my face. “I’m thinking this might be a little much for dinner.”
    “Oh darling,” a tall woman with jet-black hair slicked back into a tight bun says, “it’s Spago. You only go to Spago to be seen, so if you’re going to be seen, you might as well look fabulous.”
    Vinnie agrees, his Italian accent back in play while he rubs his chin. “It is divine on you. But it’s not right for you tonight. Try on the black skirt and shirt ensemble.”
    All five of them relax and start drinking their champagne as I step down and disappear into the dressing room. A shorter, but super tiny salesclerk shows up just as I slip the skirt on and adjust it into place. She zips the back up and smiles. “Yes, this is the outfit. Whoever this outfit is intended for doesn’t stand a chance.”
    “It’s for me,” I quickly correct, refusing to acknowledge that Danny has anything to do with my choice of attire.
    One side of her lips rises. “Okay.”
    There’s no point arguing, so I walk out and the voyeurs of the showroom break into applause.
    Vinnie runs over and hands me a pair of black strappy heels. “Try these.”
    As I sit and slip on the shoes, buckling them at the ankle, he says, “You have legs forever. Why do you hide all this? Your assets sell, Candy.”
    “I’m not trying to sell myself. I’m all about selling other products, like yours. My assets don’t come into play.”
    “I beg to differ, but now I understand why Keaton is all over you. Or should I say not over you?”
    When I look up, my eyes meet his. “What do you not know about me?”
    “I’m just observant.” He offers me a hand up and I’m a good three inches taller than him now, even with his bouffant reaching full height. “He’s all wrong for you, you know?”
    “I don’t want to talk about him.”
    “Yes, wise. Let’s focus on Model Danny instead,” he merrily chirps.
    Rolling my eyes, I add, “How about we don’t talk about either? Tonight is technically a business meeting and you’re treating it like it’s a double date.”
    “Mark’s cute,” he says offhandedly, “but not my type. Now Danny on the other hand.”
    “Then you go for him and leave me out of your matchmaking scheme.”
    “Fine. I’ll stop pestering you, but promise me you’ll wear this Vittori stunner. It was made for your body and it’s my gift to you.”
    Smiling, I walk to the mirror among a sales team of oohs and ahs. I can’t deny his talents. The outfit is amazing. And with a little tilt of my head, I have to give it to him. I look incredible in it. Leaning forward, I kiss him on each cheek. “It’s amazing.”
    “You’re amazing.”
    And just like that I have a most unexpected ally, a new friend who wants the best for me when I was beginning to believe I didn’t deserve it. “Thank you.”
    “Don’t thank me yet. We need to go. You