Call Me Casanova, Book Two: An Affair to Forget Page 4
“And until then,” Preston added with what felt like a veiled threat, “stay away from Eleonore. You've clearly had your fair share of her, but that is over. Do you understand?”
Smiling, Gregory cocked an eyebrow. “And you said she wouldn't sink so low as to fuck me.” A light tsk. “Guess you don't know her as well as you think you do.”
“I don't doubt you seduced her just to prove your point.”
“Of course.” Gregory nodded, his amusement dying. “Because a woman like that could never just want me.”
Preston seemed pleased that Gregory's enjoyment of the conversation had faded out. “No, I don't believe so. Any woman can be seduced. But in the end, she will marry the better man.”
The better man. As much as he longed to punch the prick, Preston was right; Cassandra came to Gregory for her pleasure. But a woman like that would never see him as more than simply a nice, satisfying fuck.
He slung the towel loosely around his neck and forced a dry smirk onto his lips. “No worries, dear brother. I shall depart without incident.”
Preston huffed low. “See that you do.” He spun on his heel and walked away.
The smirk faded off Gregory's lips as an unexpected and unwelcome emptiness invaded his heart. You can criticize the man all you want, but he was right before—you will never be a worthy opponent.
Gregory pulled on his shorts, tied the string and headed inside.
___________________
Dried and dressed in fresh clothes, Cassandra left her room and walked down to her father's door. It was partially open, and she started to enter when she heard Gregory inside, speaking to the older man. She hesitated.
“I will be leaving in the morning,” Gregory told him. “And I just wanted to tell you, it was a great pleasure meeting you. I don't encounter many men such as yourself.” A notable strain of emotion tightened his voice. “I will miss you, sir.”
A gentle laugh sifted from her father. “Why the formalities, Gregory?”
“Not a formality,” Gregory explained warmly. “Merely respect.” He went silent a moment, then added with sincerity, “I wish you the best of luck with the merger. And . . .” His words squeezed with a deeper emotion that startled Cassandra. “Please extend my best wishes to Cassandra. I do hope that she and Preston will be . . . compatible.”
Cassandra peered through the partial opening of the door. Gregory stood with his hands clamped on his hips, eyes directed at the floor a moment before raising them to her father. He stepped forward and stretched out his hand. “Again, it was a pleasure meeting you. I truly enjoyed our time together.” he chuckled, but it resonated sadness. “The best time I've spent in the company of another in a very long time.”
Tears stung Cassandra's eyes, startling her a bit.
“Gregory,” Abbott spoke up when the younger man was about to excuse himself. “Remember what I told you. And know this . . . just because you don't follow in the footsteps of others, that doesn't mean you are on the wrong path. Everyone gets to where they need to be in their own way. Nothing wrong with taking the roundabout, scenic route. I prefer that route myself.”
Gregory nodded, a notable working of his throat.
“Son.” Abbott approached him and laid his hand on the young man's shoulder, his voice softening. “You're a good man.” he smiled warmly, a real affection in his eyes for Gregory. “I don't often encounter someone that I would be quick to view as a friend. But I am honored to call you my friend, Gregory.” He squeezed his shoulder gently. “Are you sure you won't stay?”
Gregory rubbed a slow hand over his mouth. “None of this is my business.” he said low. “I should go and . . . get out of the way.”
An ache tightened Cassandra's chest, a feeling of hollowness inside.
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Other Books by This Author
Please check your favorite eBook retailer for the other books of D.C. Chagnon
Other books in the Call Me Casanova Trilogy
Call Me Casanova, Book One: What Meets the Eye
Call Me Casanova, Book Three: The Better Man
Books in The Fairytale Ending Trilogy
The Fairytale Ending, Book One
The Fairytale Ending, Book Two: Reality Crashing Down
The Fairytale Ending, Book Three: Once Upon a Time
The Arabian Billionaire Series
Book One: Arabian Seduction
Butterfly Candles Series
Book One: Fluttering
Off the Treadmill Series
Book one: The Depression Machine