“It’s not a big deal. Well…maybe for some of us,” she laughed and sat on the sofa.

“Seriously, you were embarrassed for me to open this in public?” My tone rose. “What is it?” Curious, I placed the box on the dining table, ripped the wrapping off, and opened the box in record time. “Oh my God!” I lifted the black lingerie out of the box.

“Max is going to love you in it.” She beamed a mischievous smile.

Now I understood why I had to open this gift at home. As blood rushed to my face, I quickly placed it back in the box. “Thank you. It’s beautiful and sexy and I’ll wear it after Christmas.” Sitting on the sofa next to her, I gave her a tight squeeze.

“You’re welcome,” she said as I let go. “You don’t have to wait until after Christmas, you know.”

“Okay, I’ll wear it on Christmas Eve.”

“Confession time. Have you ever worn one before?” Becky asked.

My lips curled into an innocent smile. “Nope.”

“Wait till you put it on. It will change you,” Becky laughed a good hardy laugh, finding humor in this situation.

How will it change me? Seeing Becky’s expression, I knew she wasn’t going to tell, but somehow, I knew she was right.

“MR. KNIGHT, WELCOME,” SHAWN greeted in his strong French accent. The store manager extended his hand and offered a firm handshake. His jewelry was pricey, but knowing he sold only the best quality diamonds was worth it. Not only that, he accommodated his clients by making appointments while the store remained closed to the general public.

His store wasn’t very big, but being in the heart of Rodeo Drive, he catered to many famous people and wealthy businessmen.

“It’s been a while.”

“Yes, it has.” Releasing his hand, I went to the first glass case. I knew exactly what I wanted.

“What can I get for you?”

“I’m not sure.” I said, so he wouldn’t know I was going to purchase a piece or two today.

“This is a gift for your special lady, yes?”

“Yes.” I couldn’t help but smile when my thoughts were of Jenna. Everything about her made me feel alive, though it was hard to put it into words. She brought joy, laughter, and dreams of the future into my life the way no other woman had ever done before. What could I say? She captured me, locked the door, and threw away the key.

“Ah, I know that smile. It is the smile that says you are in love. Are we looking for a diamond ring, sir?”

“No, not yet. She’d probably freak out,” I snorted and wondered why I thought that was funny. No, not funny at all. When the time came for me to propose, I would hate for her to react that way. It would break my heart. It was the reason I hadn’t done it yet. I’m usually the kick-back and relaxed type of guy, but when you know you’ve found the one, you don’t let go.

“Oh.” Shawn looked surprised. “Then this must be a Christmas gift.” Shawn walked to the other side, opened a case, placed a few items on a black velvet tray, and headed back to me. “How about these, sir?”

The diamonds sparkled magnificently, catching the colors nearby. “They’re beautiful, but they’re too small.”

Shawn went back to the same case. Instead of waiting, I followed behind him. “How about these, Mr. Knight?”

“They’re too big.” Jenna was not the flashy type and I could picture her wearing it only for me and not for her. “But these…” I pointed. “These are perfect. I’ll take the matching set.”

“Very nice. Simple and elegant. I’ll ring you up right over here.”

Shawn took the words out of my mouth. That perfectly described Jenna…she was classy and elegant in every way. “Please have it sent to my office and make sure it’s handed to my secretary.

“Of course, Mr. Knight. As always, it has been a pleasure doing business with you.”

“Same here,” I nodded.

On my way out, a lady walked through the door with keys in her hand. She had to have been one of the employees, since the door was locked from the outside. Giving me a warm, yet seductive smile, I finally recalled who she was. The last time I had seen her was at one of Crystal’s parties.

“Maxwell Knight. It’s been a while. How have you been?” She stopped in front of me, blocking my exit. First thing I noticed was her makeup; she had too much on. I didn’t understand why an attractive woman felt the need to put on that much makeup.

“I’ve been very well, thank you. And you?” I tried to sound businesslike. I didn’t want to give her the impression that I was flirting with her, as I had done at our last encounter. In fact, ever since Jenna, I’ve considered all women off limits. No matter how beautiful they looked, or what they tried to offer, I was not interested at all. I had become a new man.

Darcy started to gently stroke my arm, giving me a heated look. “You know, Crystal and I aren’t friends anymore,” she announced in her most seductive tone.

I had to laugh at her comment. A good friend would never flirt with their friend’s ex, although Darcy and Crystal were never really friends anyway. They were too busy competing with each other. I looked over my shoulder to see if Shawn was listening, but he had slipped into the back room without a word. That left me vulnerable to whatever Darcy had in mind, but I wasn’t worried. I was in control.

Darcy continued, “We could have dinner if you’d like, then go to my place afterward.”