33

He turned toward Miller expectantly.
Can we discuss this later Boss ? Miller picked his glass up and took a sip of the clear liquid as well.
No.
Miller set his glass down. I gave her a test.
Carter sighed in aggravation.
If it’s any consolation, Boss, she passed.
I picked at the garden and balsamic vinaigrette salad that was sat before me and ignored the pissing contest between the men as the blend of spices exploded in my mouth.
Carter tried to make small talk with me as our salad plates were cleared away and the main course was brought out, but I was still pissed. Ignoring him, I inhaled the scent of the fragrant apple-wood grilled steak and baked potato. The potato was fixed exactly how I would have made it myself ; garlic salt, butter, a four cheese blend, sour cream, chives, and bacon bits.
But how did he know to have it fixed like that ?
I caught Carter watching me as I dipped my fork into the steaming spud and took a bite. He chuckled as I sighed it was perfect and the steak was melt in your mouth delicious.
After eating and excusing myself to the restrooms once more, this time with Lynx as my escort, we made our way to the Navigator. I leaned my head back and let my food settle as we made our way into the heart of an unknown city.
As we stopped in front of a theater and a valet opened the doors, Carter had stepped out and began speaking to an older gentleman, a rare and carefree laugh sounding through the air as they shook hands.
The young valet held his hand out to me causing a blush to rise on my cheeks as he placed a kiss on it. Remembering the kisses Carter placed on Roxy’s cheek, I reached up and placed a kiss on his.
Two could play the game.
I looked over my shoulder and smirked as a low growl sounded from behind me. I turned and placed a second kiss on the young man’s opposite cheek before being pulled backward.
I chuckled and wiggled my fingers goodbye toward the stunned young man.
I know what you’re doing Lea. Carter hissed as we entered the theater.
I feigned innocence. I was just showing my appreciation for him helping me from the car since you walked off and left me there.
Playing with fire only gets you burned. Carter’s eyes were dark as he spoke.
Well then, I guess you would do good to remember your own advice.
As we stopped in front of a set of double doors, an attendant pulled them open and held out a pair of small binoculars.
Carter shook his head and walked in. I mouthed a thanks and took the glasses as I stepped in behind him, followed by the three guards.
I looked over the dim stage, pursing my lips ; I hadn’t even thought to look at the marquis to see what was being presented.
What are we seeing ? I asked quietly as the lights brightened and dimmed three times, letting us know the show was about to start.
Madame Butterfly.
I arched my brow at Carter.
It’s an opera, Lea.
Oh.
I sat back as the show began and sighed softly. This was going to be one long night.
Carter’s P. O. V.
It had taken Lea a little bit to settle back and start to relax once the opera started. I could tell that she had never been to a live performance and was unsure of what to expect from it. We were waiting for act three to start and Lea had began to understand that Madame Butterfly was a romantic tragedy.
We had about ten minutes before the theater went dark again and I found myself continually glancing toward Lea during the intermission. She looked so beautiful tonight, simple but elegant.
She had the pendant in between her fingers and looked deep in thought as I gazed over her once more.
Lea ? I turned toward her and watched as her mouth twisted and her eyebrows scrunched together.
HM. She continued to roll the diamond drop between her thumb and forefinger absently.
What are you thinking so hard about ? I asked softly as I reached over and clasped my hand around hers, loosening the necklace from her grasp.
She shivered at the contact but didn’t pull her hand away. Instead, Lea half turned in her seat and faced me.
Why did you bring me here ? Her voice was low, as if she was afraid of the answer.
I wanted to spend some time with you, away from the house.
Lea dropped her head and sighed softly. Why ?
I turned to fully face Lea and cupped her chin, gently lifting her face. I wanted to look into her eyes as I spoke honestly.
Because I’m willing to try, Lea.
Lea’s eyes roamed over my face before setting back on my eyes. To try what ?
Lea’s breathing hitched as I traced my fingers along her jawline.
I find myself wanting to try and be someone more than what you see me as.
I placed my palm on Lea’s cheek and let a small smile make its way on my face as she closed her eyes and pressed her cheek against my hand once.
An array of emotions flashed through her eyes as she opened them and covered my hand with hers. She pulled it from her face and held it in her lap.
O. K. Her voice was barely audible as she held my gaze.
The lights dimmed and the performers took the stage once more. I ran my thumb over Lea’s knuckles as we watched the final act. By the end of the show, Lea had tears streaming down her face.
That was beautiful, she stood and pulled her hand from mine and wiped under her eyes.
It is one of my favorites. I held my hand back out to her. Shall we ?
Lea nodded and placed her palm in mine. We made our way from the V. I. P. room to the lower level of the theater. Restrooms ?
We stopped outside the restrooms and I nodded at a couple of elderly ladies as they giggled and walked in after Lea. Lea walked out a few minutes later, laughing.
You sure seem to attract admirers of all ages.
I rolled my eyes. I had gotten use to the stares, glares, and whispers a long time ago but decided to play it up. I brushed my hand down the front of my chest and let a smirk set on my face. No one can resist this.