Take Me Now by Faith Sullivan Read Free Book Online Page B

first screening will be?” My excitement is so forced but he doesn’t even notice. He could be conversing with any random reporter for all he cares. He’s talking about himself; no wonder he’s so animated.
    “My lips are sealed. I can’t give anything away until opening night.” So much for obtaining any type of insider information. I thought he’d be more forthcoming considering how the theater’s not even paying for the ad. Doesn’t he know about give and take? “And it appears your boss is set to make a statement at the gala.”
    “What do you mean?” This statement sets off alarm bells—probably what he intended.
    “Didn’t you hear? She’s taking Eric Young. It’s going to be their official coming out party as a couple. Not that I’m into local gossip or anything, but apparently it’s a big deal because he hasn’t dated since his fiancée died.” The waitress arrives and I sit back in stunned silence. Will places the order for the two of us without even consulting me, but I don’t even hear him. I’m too upset over the bomb he just dropped. Lauren has been secretly dating Eric? How could I have been so blind?
    “Yeah, I found out you had something to do with getting Eric to sponsor the film festival, so when I talked to Lauren about coordinating the event coverage, she informed me that she had you to thank for bringing Eric into the limelight again.” He smiles at me as he unwraps his straw, but there’s something more behind it. And I’m suddenly transported back to the incident with Jeremy.
    “Oh, it was nothing. It was all Lauren. She’s something, isn’t she?” Trying not to give anything away, I gently prod him for more information. I can’t show what I’m feeling inside or it’s all over. He’ll pounce all over any sign of weakness and I refuse to repeat the same mistakes I’ve made in the past.
    “Yeah, the best. Listen, are you going to the gala with anyone? It might be to our mutual advantage if we go together.” A smile plays at the corner of his lips when he sees my breath catch. He’s well aware of the effect he has on me.
    “And why is that?” Tell me, Will. Why am I suddenly so irresistible?
    “Some of the assistants from the studios will be there. None of the higher-ups, of course. It’ll mostly be the gatekeepers. But they’re all digging the local connection, and while it’s been a couple of years since I’ve been home, you are sort of an aficionado of the area’s cultural scene, working for the Gazette and all. We can help each other out. What do you say?” So I’m to be the pawn in his game of climbing the Hollywood ranks? Too bad it seems to be at my expense. What do I get out of it? Having the honor of finally being called his date? How can a girl refuse?
    “Hmm, Will. I don’t know.” A spark of disbelief flits across his face before it disappears. If he’s going to use me, he’s going to have to work for it. I’m sick of being such a pushover.
    “Ivy, c’mon. It’ll be fun. I’ll even buy you a new dress if you want.” Wow, this must be important to him if he’s willing to spend money on me. It sounds like the stakes are pretty high when it comes to his career advancement. A lot must be riding on this film festival.
    “Well, if you put it that way. How can I say no?” I shrug my shoulders in the adorable way only a girl can and a smile lights up his entire face. He’s such a heartthrob. If only he had the heart to go with it.
    “Ivy, you’re the best.” Catching me off guard, he runs a hand through my hair before pulling me forward as he presses his lips against mine. I’ve dreamed of this moment for so long and it has finally arrived. He’s kissing me, full out kissing me, in public. His tongue dances in my mouth, and I’m not going to lie, it feels incredible. He’s not just a good kisser. He’s a great kisser. I could go on like this for days, but he draws away and relishes taking in my flushed cheeks, swollen lips, and