Chapter 140

Even at night, Anthony still looked every bit the part of someone out of reach. His presence was impossible to ignore, all cold confidence and untouchable charm. But the moment he spotted her, the chill in his expression started to thaw.
“Up the offer to one hundred and fifty million. We need Nine to show up. Our system can’t hold out much longer.” He hung up, put out his cigarette, and let his eyes settle on Charlotte.
Charlotte stood at least five-seven. Among the students, she was tall. Since she’d transferred in last minute, no one could find a uniform that fit her right. The skirt, meant to be modest, was a little too short, and her long legs drew more than a few stares.
“It’s a little cold. Wear this.” Anthony narrowed his eyes and pulled off his jacket, draping it over her shoulders. Most of her legs disappeared beneath the fabric.
Cold? Charlotte glanced down at the coat, lips pressing together. “It’s ninety degrees outside.”
“I think you’re cold.” Anthony didn’t look the least bit embarrassed about being caught. He chuckled and took her warm hand in his, leaning down until his face was close to hers. “I have to meet someone. Will you come with me, Lottie?”
“Is there food?” Charlotte looked up, meeting his dark gaze. He had that handsome, dangerous look, like he could talk anyone into trouble.
“There is.” Anthony held the car door open and helped her into the passenger seat. He leaned over, buckled her in, and as he pulled back, tapped her nose with his finger. “So, no food means you’re not coming?”
Charlotte lifted her chin, her pretty face set in a serious expression. “Right.”
Not a hint of fear or guilt about refusing him.
“You’re so heartless.” He grinned at her in the moonlight, unable to resist reaching out to touch her cheek. When she didn’t pull away, he pinched it gently, then did it again with a soft, deep laugh. “Fine, I’ll make sure you’re fed.”
Charlotte’s breath caught in her throat.
…
Half an hour later, the sports car rolled to a stop in front of a brightly lit club, all neon and energy.
Anthony got out first and walked around to open her door, slipping his hand into hers.
Something about the place felt familiar. Charlotte stared at the glowing entrance, lost in thought.
Anthony noticed and gently pulled
her in front of him, giving her head a soft pat. His voice was low and a
little rough Stick with me Don’t let anyone bump into you.”
That’s when it hit her. This was the club where she’d pulled that prank on Jesse, the
one where Anthony had rescued her right outside.
“Okay.” Charlotte looked up at him. Under the lights, his face looked even more striking, his eyebrows lifting just a little.
The moment they stepped inside, the club manager hurried over. “Anthony!”
“Is Kenneth here yet?” Anthony asked. The air was thick with the smell of alcohol. He glanced at Charlotte, who was wrinkling her nose in annoyance.
“Not yet.”
“Alright.” Anthony led her toward the top-floor VIP suite, lowering his voice as he spoke to the manager.
“Bring some snacks. The kind girls like.”
The manager couldn’t help sneaking a look at Charlotte, who Anthony seemed to be treating like something precious. His eyelid twitched. Anthony had brought a date? So he wasn’t into guys after all. shovels