The Escort by Harmony Raines Read Free Book Online Page A

perfect."
    "I preferred your first compliment."
    She blushed, but couldn't bring herself to look away from him, while he pinned the pretty flowers to her dress.
    "You don't think it's too much?" she asked, spreading her hands over her dress.
    "No, not at all, all eyes will be on you."
    "I know, because I'm with you. Any single woman, and a few that aren't, will be drooling over you in that suit."
    She meant every word, now he was seated next to her she could get a better look at him as they passed under the street lights. His shirt was bright white, possible brand new, and set off his tanned complexion, giving him the air of a sheik about to put her over his shoulder and make off with her. She could hope.
    The black jacket was well cut, and fitted him perfectly, it look expensive, the fabric high quality, making it hang in such a way it flowed when he moved.
    The cab weaved itself through the traffic, nearing their destination. Max struggling not to fiddle nervously with a ringlet of hair which had fallen forward onto her chest, something she hadn't done for years. Instead she managed to curb the urge and push it back into place. She was a woman, not the awkward young girl she used to be.
    "So this is a big evening, lots of people there?" he asked, and his voice held the slight waver of nerves.
    "Yes. My employees organise it every year. They raise money for charity, everyone is expected to attend. It's not exactly compulsory, but we all know you better have a very good excuse for not being here."
    He plucked at his suit, straightening his tie, she could feel the buzz of nerves emanating from him. It worried her that he wasn't used to this kind of thing. Robin had said he escorted professional women to many functions, that he knew how to behave. But Dan looked distracted.
    “Are you OK? I could go on my own if this is too much for you."
    “No. Sorry, it's been a long day, and I don't usually dress like this, I'll be fine once we're there."
    She ducked her head and looked out of the window. "Good, because here we are."
    The cab pulled over, Dan got out first, and came around to open the door for her. He stood patiently while she paid the driver, and then held his hand out for her. She took it, her skin brushing against his, igniting a fire she fought to control. Dan looked more at home now, but his inner turmoil seemed to have transmitted to her.
    Lots of faces she knew from different departments were going inside. Panic took hold of her firmly, impossible to shake off, she stood rooted to the spot.
    Seeing her unsure, he flipped from being the one in need of reassurance, to the man in control. He kissed her hand, which he still held firmly, and smiled. "You look even better now I can see all of you. That dress is going to turn heads."
    "Oh, really." Her voice wavered.
    “Yes, Max, and for all the right reasons. You look like a voluptuous vamp."
    She laughed. “That was not exactly what I was aiming for. I wanted to look classy."
    "You do, but with a hint of undiscovered delights."
    "I want to go home."
    "Don't worry we can face the demons inside together."
    "I'm worried I'm going to make a fool of myself, I don't want you to witness that if I do."
    "I've made a fool of myself enough times to know it's best not to judge."
    She breathed in very slowly, and out again keeping her breath even. "One last thing before we go in."
    "Anything."
    "I can trust you, can't I Dan?"
    "Yes, Maxine. You can,” he said solemnly.
    "Only I was wondering why you told me your name was Dan, when you're supposed to be called Drake."
    "I thought I told you, I’m more comfortable with Dan. Drake is a bit melodramatic for a business woman like you."
    She wanted to ask him if that was his real name, or made up, but she couldn't. Instead she focused on his hand, and the warmth and reassurance he gave her.
    "Ready," he asked.
    She nodded. "Ready."
    He leaned forward and kissed her cheek, whispering, "You look stunning. And no I'm not just saying that,