Lonzo: Book 2 (Tycoon Series Book 2) by Kat Madrid Read Free Book Online

constant barrage of flash from the photographers left her a little disconcerted.
    Then she felt it. That instant awareness that she only felt around him. She stiffened.
    Chris’ arm encircled her waist.
    “Don’t look at three o’clock, babe. Lonzo’s here with Helene Harwood—” Chris whispered in her ear, looking lover-like. “—smile your most beautiful smile for me, sweetheart. Don’t let him get to you.”
    And she did. It rekindled her fighting spirit, letting it take control. She looked sideways at her friend and gave him her most come hither smile worthy of a photo spread, before kissing him on the lips, in full view of the media. It drove the press crazier.
    Take a good look at what you lost, Lonzo Vitale.
    Chris clearly didn’t mind as he beamed down at her. “Now, that’s the spirit! Please feel free to kiss and fondle me in public, woman.”
    “Shut up, Falcone. I just might do.”
    “I knew it! You want my body, too.”
    “You’re…all right.”
    “Ouch! Careful! You’re trampling my ego!”
    “Don’t worry. It’s still big.”
    He winked down at her. “Let’s get inside, saucy wench, and let’s show Lonzo what he’s missing.”
    Her heart plummeted a bit.
    She had convinced herself she wouldn’t get affected seeing him with another woman.
    But being in the same roof as him was too much.
    So what if he’s here? It’s done. Get over it. Civility is the key.
    She can be civil.
    Her pep-talk came crumbling down when she learned they would be seated in the same row as Lonzo and his current piece.
    She gave Chris a nervous look. Did you know about this? Her eyes conveyed.
    “I had no idea Helene knew him, babe. My publicist told me she’s coming with a different guy…a director. Must’ve changed dates the last minute. Apparently, she likes high drama,” he whispered.
    She couldn’t speak, all the resentment toward the man who ripped her heart into pieces resurfaced. He still walked like he owned the place. On his arm was the stunning Helene, who raptly listened to his every word.
    Helene’s face was in a perfect profile as she laughed at what Lonzo had just said, her whole demeanor animated.
    The actress was very beautiful. Helene’s face had the glamor of old Hollywood. She made her think of Grace Kelly—with the exception of the bee-stung lips reminiscent of Angelina Jolie. The award-winning thespian can also rival Salma Hayek’s spectacular curves. Tonight that banging body was showcased in a royal blue silk sheath that shouted Gucci a mile away.
    Now I can understand what Jennifer Aniston went through after Brad dropped her for Angie, she mused.
    But she wasn’t a Jennifer Aniston. She wouldn’t let anyone…not even this talented, moneyed and beautiful creature outshine her.
    Nah-ah.
    Her self-pride kicked in and went on high gear. She straightened her back, her shoulders thrown back, her head held fiercely high.
    Jordana Almueda ruled runways and the red carpet. She was born for it. She got paid big bucks for it.
    Fuck you, Lonzo Vitale! You will not cower me!
    Chris patted her hand, reassuring her as they neared their respected seats.
    She gave him a glance.
    “It’s okay, Chris.”
    Then she resumed their tête-à-tête until they reached their seats. She feigned that nothing unsettled her. She got an admiring look from Chris for it.
    “You sure you’re okay?” he murmured.
    “Damned sure.”
    She did her absolute best to block Lonzo from her mind. She looked through him and pretended he wasn’t seated a few seats away.
    All this time, she felt Lonzo’s disapproving gaze on them. She didn’t give him any mind. It made her more determined to enjoy and have fun that evening.
    She gave Chris her full attention, applauded the speeches the speakers made and smiled at her date’s witty comments about some of the celebrity guests who were there just to get photographed, not really caring about AIDS and making a difference.
    At last the event was over.
    “We can skip