Page 88 of One Sweet Lie

We’re still on.

I’ll be there shortly.

Ifolded a napkin in my lap as the server filled my glass.

Excited about our date night, I adjusted the straps on my pink Prada dress, hoping Pierce would peel it off me once we left.

He sat across from me, his expression unreadable.

“How was your day? I asked.

“It was nice until a certain point.” He signaled for the waiter.

“Yes, Mr. Dawson?”

“I’ll have a shot of your best whiskey,” he said. “Neat.”

“Right away, sir.”

I waited until he stepped away.

“Do you want to talk about the certain point?” I asked.

“We’re definitely going to talk about it.” He took a slow sip of water. “How was your day?”

“It was great. I showed Olivia and the twins the design ideas for my bakery,” I said. “They agreed that the rustic look with a hint of elegance is the way to go. Of course, the girls prefer pink and William was partial to yellow and green.”

“How fascinating.” He picked up his shot the moment the waiter set it down. Then he requested another.

“I also took them to one of my favorite plant nurseries,” I said. “I still think the twins are a bit too young to enjoy it, but I’m looking forward to taking Olivia to see another one.”

“You’re not taking Olivia anywhere, ever again.”

“Huh?”

“I didn’t stutter.”

“What the hell is going on with you today?”

“I don’t want to see you ever again either.” He ignored my question. “And if I thought you were worth anything, I’d sue the fuck out of you.”

“Okay,whoa.I’m not sure what the hell is going on with you tonight, but?—”

“When were you going to tell me that you weren’t a real nanny?” He glared at me.

His question slapped me in the face, catching me completely off guard.

“Do I need to repeat my question?” he asked. “Or are you sitting over there trying to concoct another fucking lie?”

“I’m…” I stammered. “I’m sorry.”

“You’re sorry?”

“I didn’t lie for any malicious purposes, I swear.”

“You honestly expect me to believe that?”

“It’s the truth.”