Chapter 94
“Absolutely. Mr. Sinclair went out of his way just for Ms. Whitman Most people would be lucky to get even a minute of his time.”
“Sounds like Mc. Sinclair’s got quite a stake in Ms. Widtman’s exhibition, hu
A taint smile touched Natalie’s lips, her voice softening with practiced modesty. “Oh, Mr. Sinclair’s just thorough when it comes to work. He’s the very definition of a workaholic.”
Her tone might have sounded dismissive, but the ease behind it hinted at a closeness with Gregory that didn’t go unnoticed. The other guests exchanged glances, knowing smiles passing betweed them,
Tonight was more than just a celebration dinner. It was a networking event Gregory had put together specifically for Natalie.
Aspen, meanwhile, took in the conversation without a flicker of reaction and headed to the seat to Gregory’s right.
Gregory wasn’t usually the one to make the first move, but this time, he offered a handshake. Aspen barely caught his fingers before shipping into her seat, her demeanor cool and detached
Natalie offered a conciliatory smile. “You know how artists are, Greg–quirky. Don’t let it get to you.”
Gregory didn’t react, settling into his chair as if nothing had happened.
Theo, meanwhile, had every high–powered woman in the r room vying for his attention, yet he chose the seat beside Anathea
She shot him a questioning glance. There was a seat open on the other side, surrounded by women hoping he’d take it. So, why had he chosen to sit beside her?
The leaned in and said evenly, “Consider me your chaperone. I wouldn’t want you blurting out something regrettable the second you lock eyes with Gregory.”
Anathea furrowed her brow, amused despite herself. What, exactly did he think she’d say? Stand up and announce to the entire room that she was Gregory’s real wife and Natalie was just the mistress?
If she did, she could already picture exactly how Gregory would make her pay for it.
She wasn’t about to risk setting off Gregory’s temper again. And honestly, she couldn’t have cared less about being called Gregory’s wife in name only.
Anathea fixed Theo with a blank look. “Would you mind sliding over, Mr. Harrington?”
His brow furrowed. “Excuse me? I told you I’m staying put. What part of that didn’t you understand?”
“You’re crushing my purse.”
Theo stiffened, then let out an awkward cough as he handed her the now–misshapen purse. The moment he saw the damage, his face twisted with a mix of embarrassment and something harder to pin down.
Anathea ignored him, set down her purse, and sat in silence.
As the last of the guests took their seats, the low hum of small talk filled the room while orders were placed. Gregory shifted his attention away from Anathea and Theo before handing the menu to Natalie.
Natalie accepted it with an easy smile. “Any preferences?”
“Whatever you want. I’ll leave it to you, Gregory replied.
“Got it.” Her smile deepened.
The guests caught every bit of the exchange and remarked, “Mr. Sinclair and Ms. Whitman seem so close! Color me
me jealous!”
“Oh, it’s nothing like that,” Natalie said, brushing it off.
+25 BONUS
She went on to order all of thregory’s favorites. Then, loud enough for the whole table to her, she told the waiter, “No scallions oucianten. Mr. Sinclair dislikes them. And make the mussels in white wine, just the way he likes.”
“You even know his exact preferences, and you’re still denying you two are close?
Other guests jumped in, teasing, “Seriously, Ms. Whitman, give it us straight. What’s really going on between you two?”
“Yeah, are you two dating or what?”
You’ve got to be! The chemistry’s obvious!”
Ablush rose to Natalie’s cheeks. She fidgeted with her fingers belie casting a bashful glance at Gregory.
“Mr. Sinclair and lare”
