Honest Betrayal by Dara Girard Read Free Book Online

Would you risk not loving her?”
    Stephen’s voice became quiet. “What risks have you taken?”
    She didn’t reply for a long moment then said, “I asked Byron to marry me.”
    His eyes widened. “I didn’t know that.”
    “Nobody did because he said no.”
    “Why?”
    “Why do you think?”
    He thought for a moment then nodded. “Oh yea, I know. He’s a stupid prick.”
    “That’s not true. He’s not stupid.”
    Stephen smiled. “So you’re over him?”
    “Doesn’t matter, the point is I took a risk.”
    “So that means you’ll never take a risk again?”
    “We’re not talking about me.”
    He slid to the floor and grabbed his bowl. “Right. Your life is off limits, but mine is open to advice.”
    “All I’m trying to say is that I went after what I wanted.”
    “You always do.”
    “And so should you.”
    “Why? I basically have what I want whether you believe it or not.” He looked down at his stew, trying to look innocent although his words were not. “So what’s the name of the guy I just reminded you of?”
    She stiffened. “I told you, it’s nobody.”
    He turned to her. “I know his name isn’t Nobody so what is it?”
    She sighed. “Hunter Randolph. A strange man who stormed into my office yesterday and wanted to use me as a fake fiancée.”
    “Why?”
    “Because he was high on hallucinogens.” She threw up her hands. “How would I know? He thinks I ruined his life because I matched up a woman he’d planned to marry.” She waved a dismissive hand. “The story is ridiculous. Besides he was suppose to come back today and he didn’t so I think he came to his senses.”
    Stephen narrowed his eyes. “And you wish he hadn’t?”
    Brenna shifted , feeling awkward. “Doesn’t matter what I think.”
    He raised a brow. “I think you liked him.”
    “He was a very attractive man.” She paused thoughtful. “A man like him on my roster would certainly help business.”
    “Business had nothing to do with your interest in him.” Stephen adjusted his position and patted her on the knee. “You’re a matchmaker. When are you going match yourself up?”
    “I don’t have a match.”
    “It’s not like you to sound cynical.”
    “Practical. I have high standards.”
    “Standards you set so high on purpose to make sure no mortal man can reach them.”
    “Nothing wrong with waiting for a god.”
    “And as you wait I hope you’ll meet a man who’ll shoot you down to Earth.”
    ***
    Once Brenna reached home, she pulled a book down from the shelf hoping to drown out her brother’s hurtful words. She knew she’d been an embarrassment to her family. That was why she’d worked so hard to become somebody. And she had. Love by Design had been written up in Essence and Caribbean Times as a great alternative to online matchmaking services and speed dating. It was a classic hands-on approach to finding love. She was performing a great service and making a lot of people happy plus earning a decent income. She traveled, ate wherever she wanted and bought clothes when the mood struck, however these were limited luxuries because she had to stay within her budget. But beside these small treats, there were those few moments of loneliness. And when they descended, she’d slip into the lives of one of the fictional heroines in her books and life would return to order.
    She was halfway through a delicious suspense novel when the phone rang. It was her friend, Bette. They’d recently become reacquainted two months ago thanks to her mother. They’d grown up in the same neighborhood before Brenna’s parent’s divorce forced her to move away. After a few letters they’d lost touch. Until now. Bette was great company, very affectionate and kind.
    “I need a break,” Bette said.
    “Me too.”
    “We could go to the Ride Club.”
    Brenna frowned. “I’m not much of a dancer.”
    “That’s okay. They have live entertainment and great food.”
    “Sounds perfect,” Brenna said ready