If I Loved You (Hollywood Hearts 1) by Jean C. Joachim Read Free Book Online

stopped.
    She recognized the pain that flickered deep inside his dark orbs. She caught a glimpse of the boy he once had been crouched there alone in darkness.
    “Of course. I understand…but it’s not a finished story, either.”
    “I’m a work-in-progress, for sure.” He laughed.
    “I won’t tell anyone…promise.” She smoothed the hair on his forehead off to the side.
    His chest rose as he took a deep breath. A look of relief flashed across his features. He never told that to anyone? Trust? Does he trust me?
    Chaz pulled her into the shadows and pressed his lips to hers. He threaded his fingers in her hair while he deepened the kiss. The moment the tip of his tongue touched hers a tingle shot all the way to her toes. When he finally let her go, Megan could barely breathe.
    “I wish I could make it better…” She mumbled, cupping his face with her hand.
    “You just did.” A grin tugged at one side of his mouth.
    He’s not the guy I thought he was at all.
    “Don’t know why I’m trusting you with that…I hardly know you.” His brows knitted.
    “I wouldn’t disclose that to anyone…on pain of death.”
    “Maybe you don’t have to go that far. Just don’t post it on Facebook , okay?”
    “Never.” Megan stood close enough to feel heat from his chest.
    “Thanks.” He brushed his fingertips across her forehead. “Guess if I’m going to trust you with seven million dollars, I can trust you with my most precious secret.”
    They continued out of the park and up Central Park West, walking through shadows and the light from streetlamps.
    Business, Megan!
    The pair stopped to linger in front of her building. She didn’t go inside. He didn’t leave.
    “You can call me any time you want to know how your portfolio is doing. We issue monthly reports, but I’ll be available to you twenty-four/seven.” She shifted her weight.
    “Oh?” He cocked an eyebrow at her. “Can I call you at three in the morning for…advice?”
    “It might not be worth much at that hour but…sure.” She grinned.
    “What if you’re not alone?” A naughty grin spread across his face.
    “Oh, I’ll be alone.”
    “Sure about that?”
    “Sure. And you?” She leaned against the building.
    “I’m on my own now, too.” He braced himself against the building with his hand.
    Megan stared.
    “Glad to hear you’re…unattached.” His eyes glowed in the light from the street lamps.
    “Oh?” She cocked an eyebrow at him.
    “I like to come first with the women in my life.”
    “Now I’m a woman in your life?” She stood up straight.
    “Of course. You’re my financial advisor…and a woman.”
    “You might not feel that way about me after I get through going over your spending habits.” Megan covered a smile with her hand.
    “You’re going to do what?” Chaz raised his eyebrows.
    “I’ll make recommendations on how you can cut back on your expenses and save more money…like maybe getting rid of your chauffeur.”
    “Bobby and I grew up together. Bobby’s got my back. I’ve got his. He straightened me out when I needed it. When I’m not here, he uses the car to run his own car service. He supports his wife and kid. You might hire him, too, if you need a car.”
    “Bobby stays. Got it.”
    “Are you going to look over every expense, every check? Makes me feel a bit naked.”
    “Hiding hooker expenses you don’t want me to see?” Megan raised an eyebrow.
    Chaz turned bright red. “No…but it does seem…intrusive —at best.”
    “All part of Dillon and Weed service. I analyze how you’re spending your money, suggest ways to either cut down or spend more wisely.”
    “Hmm. Didn’t know that was part of the deal.”
    Megan placed her hand on his arm. “Hey, if you’re uncomfortable, then I’ll skip it. This isn’t a doctor visit. You have to agree…you’re in charge.”
    “Good.” A look of relief relaxed Chaz’s features.
    “No problem. Only want you to be sensible.”
    “Are you