Chapter 88 The Cold CEO

• Taking a deep breath, I brace myself for an agonizing afternoon and make my way to the edge of the group as they chat. I’m supposed to be Diego’s personal shadow, unnoticed but appearing when Diego needs help or a time check. A shadow not allowed to stand here and cry while imagining Diego naked and lying with that woman standing right next to him. I must be doing a good job becausee no one blinks at me, including Diego, the picture of simple elegance in a pair of dark-wash jeans and a fitted arctic white shirt—intentionally casual attire to counter the black-tie event later.
• He says something funny, and Roshana tilts her head back to give a deep laugh, her hand reaching for his forearm to squeeze it. It’s such an affectionate move. It’s a kick In my chest. Had he planned this all along? Is that why he gave me the morning off? Was he in bed with her when he answered my text message? When did he call me? I’m such an idiot. I was so eager to get away from Abraham, so desperate not to feel the pain in my heart, that I leaped headfirst into Diego. He knew how easy of a target I was and took advantage. He’s a predator. Maybe not the kind that imposes himself on women—can I believe him more about that?—but certainly one who preys on vulnerable women. I gave him anything and everything he wanted. I believed everything he said. He told me what we have is different. I believed him when he said that too.
• Anger and shame boil inside me. Anger at myself for believing him so easily because I wanted to. Now, all I want to do is go back to the cabin and curl up In my bed because this little fantasy I’ve been living in is over. It didn’t even last four days, let alone four months. I feel eyes on me. I pull away from my inner desperation to find Diego’s blue gaze on me. Despite my current pain, he still manages to steal one or two heartbeats from me. I clench my jaw, wanting to scream, “You lying bastard!” almost too much to control. But that would only increase my shame.