Yours for the Taking by Robin Kaye Read Free Book Online Page A

dated a few years ago and she knew he was definitely heterosexual. Maybe if he introduced Gina as his wife, it would put a stop to any reminiscing Jess might want to do.
    The intercom beeped announcing a visitor. Gina threw her jacket on before grabbing her purse. “I guess the Realtor is here.”
    Ben opened the door and took Gina’s keys from her to lock up. “It sounds that way. Come on, I’ll introduce you.”
    They met Jess on the stoop. “Jess, this is my wife, Gina. Gina, this is an old friend, Jessica Spencer.” He gave Jess a pointed look hoping she’d take the hint not to discuss their past liaison.
    Jessica did a double take. “You’re married?”
    Ben put his arm around Gina. “Yeah, just today, actually.”
    Jess looked Gina up and down and unsuccessfully tried to hide her shock. “Congratulations!” She gave him a hug and then shook Gina’s hand with both of hers. “I never thought I’d see the day someone landed Ben Walsh.”
    Gina snorted. “Yeah, well, what can I say? He drove a hard bargain.”
    He gave Gina a pinch on her very pinchable ass and ignored her little jump. Serves her right.
    Jess smiled her fake model smile. “Let’s go celebrate over lunch, shall we? That way we can talk about what you’re both looking for in your new home.”
    ***
    Gina stood in the entry of a Romanesque Revival mansion in Montgomery Place, one block off the park. “This is just too big. It’s five stories, Ben. Count them, five.” She held a finger up for each floor and counted them off. “ Uno, dos, tres, cuatro, cinco . Five.”
    Jess stood off to the side as Ben pulled Gina into his arms, a place she definitely did not want to be. This show he was putting on for the Realtor was beginning to get on Gina’s nerves.
    “I know it’s large, but it’s well within our price range and you have to admit, it’s beautiful.”
    Gina did her best not to look at him. Instead she checked out all the molding on the walls, the rich colors they were painted, and the elaborate woodwork. If someone had told her last year she’d be standing in a home like this, no less considering purchasing it, she’d have thought the person was insane.
    She whispered, “Ben, I can’t live in a place like this.”
    “Sure you can.” When she shook her head, he pulled her closer. “Let’s at least look at it. You’re the one who wants to stay here in Brooklyn. If you don’t, I’m sure we can find a great penthouse in the city.”
    “I’m not a penthouse type of girl.” Before he could say anything to rebut her statement, she continued, “I’m not a Romanesque Revival mansion type either.”
    Ben squeezed her hand. “Come on, give it a chance. You might just surprise yourself.”
    She doubted it. The place looked like a museum.
    Ben didn’t let go of her hand as he and Jess dragged her from room to room, each more gorgeous than the last. When they hit the master bedroom, he looked over at Jess. “Do you think the owners would be interested in selling the place furnished?”
    Jess’ eyes glazed over, Gina was sure she was seeing dollar signs. “The owners didn’t mention it, but it wouldn’t hurt to ask.”
    Ben nodded. “Why don’t you give them a call while Gina and I talk.”
    Jess took the hint and closed the door behind her, leaving Gina stuck in yet another bedroom with Ben. She turned on him and poked his chest. “Are you nuts? What am I going to do with this much space?”
    Ben calmly removed her finger from his chest and held her hand in his as he shook his head at her like she was an errant schoolgirl. “I told you we could spend about ten million. This place is only going for three point seven. With the downturn in the real estate market, it’s cheap, but that’s not helping you. It would probably be better for you to go to the city and let me buy one of those penthouses I mentioned, but if you insist on staying in Brooklyn, this is about the best you can do. I suppose I could put whatever we