Going Overboard by Christina Skye Read Free Book Online Page B

while since anyone conned me that well.”
    “And that bothers you.”
    “Damned right.” He tugged off the tuxedo jacket, frowning when she put her hand on his arm.
    “I was only trying to make this easier for you.”
    “I know.” The anger in his eyes receded slightly. “Otherwise you'd be looking for another actor right now.” He took the champagne glass and drank slowly. “Apology accepted on one condition.” He turned the glass, studying her over the rim. “You. Me. Dinner, tonight.”

D inner?” Her wariness was instant. “Why?”
    “Because you have to eat. Since we're going to work together, it will help if I get to know you.”
    “Reasonable, I suppose,” she said finally. “But I have to check film, then pack up cameras for tomorrow.”
    “Your staff can handle that. They won't miss you for a few hours.” McKay finished his glass of rich, fruity Roederer Blanc de Blanc. “Time's up. Yes or no?”
    Carly studied her crew, busy picking up props. “I can't stay long.”
    “Agreed. I'll meet you here in ten minutes.” He slanted her a look that skimmed from head to toe. “Wear something comfortable.”
    Carly watched him stride off, aware of the curious glances of the crew. She heard a chuckle and flushed. “What's so funny?”
    “Hey, going to dinner with him is fine by me,” her head cameraman said. “We'll finish up here.”
    “The bracelet's gone back to the vault under guard.” Daphne took her arm. “I'll make sure all the cameras are back in the office before I lock up.”
    “But—”
    “Go,” Daphne said impatiently. “Just because you're busy doesn't mean you can't have a little private time. It's true, getting to know him will help your work.”
    “It sounds even thinner coming from you than it did from him,” Carly said flatly.
    “Then why did you say yes?”
    She shrugged. “Curiosity. Or maybe because I can't turn down a challenge.”
    Daphne studied Carly in thoughtful silence. “Wear the linen sundress with a single strand of pearls.”
    Carly flushed. “I will not dress up. This isn't a date.”
    “You still want to look your best.” Daphne tapped her cheek. “Definitely the red linen.” She shooed Carly toward the door. “Your cabin is across the hall, remember? Along with the life you keep forgetting to live.”
    “This is ridiculous.”
    “Go. The man just saved your job. The least you can do is thank him.”
    Thanking him was one thing, Carly thought. Suffering was another.
    “We can't be eating here.” She stared at the wall of windows overlooking the ocean. “Not in the health club.”
    “I told you comfortable.” McKay studied her dress as he opened the door. “Not that I dislike your choice, but pearls may be a little overdressed for the treadmill.”
    “So sue me,” Carly grumbled stealing his line. “I try to avoid places like this.”
    “Too busy, right? You figure you get enough exercise working out with your camera. Or maybe bench-pressing your Palm Pilot.”
    “How did you know I have a Palm Pilot?”
    “Call it a lucky guess.”
    “How do you know so much about me after less than a day?”
    “Must be a gift I have.”
    She tried not to fume as they were greeted warmly by a stunning woman in yellow spandex.
    “Why is no one else around?”
    “Being famous has its perks.”
    “You're famous?” Carly whispered.
    “No, you are. Martina was delighted to open the club as part of your research.” He ran a finger over her pearls, one brow raised. “Nothing reduces stress like exercise.”
    Carly realized that Martina was waiting patiently, a towel and a red spandex leotard in her hand.
    The outfit should have sent her running for the nearest exit. Spandex meant a serious workout, while the faded sweat suit McKay produced from the bag over his arm implied a man who showed no mercy on himself or others.
    Carly didn't have time for any of it.
    She was ready to turn tail when McKay took her arm firmly. “Not scared of a little