Mike's POV
The door closed behind Valerie with a soft click.
And just like that, the room felt different.
It was colder than before. The warmth I felt while Valerie was there was gone.
I stared at the spot where she had been standing a moment ago, her words still echoing in my mind.
Your reputation needs me.
My jaw tensed at the thought.
I hated it even more that she was right.
"You're seriously going to take her?"
Innocent's voice snapped me out of my thoughts.
I turned to look at her.
She was no longer leaning against me.
Instead, she stood a few steps away, her arms crossed tightly over her chest.
Her expression was dark from anger, and maybe, hurt.
"This is a business dinner, not romance" I said flatly.
"And I need to keep appearances."
"Appearances?" she repeated in disbelief.
Even I didn't believe that.
I knew for sure that I had developed more feelings for Valerie.
It was more than the disgust I felt when I found out she was my mate.
