Free Anything but Love by Celya Bowers Page A

going to stand there gawking or are you coming inside?” Kendall stepped aside to let him inside her house.
    Hoping to God he didn’t voice the retort on the tip of his tongue, Cole nodded and stepped into the foyer. He watched her every graceful move. “You look beautiful, Kendall,” he mumbled. “I wasn’t expecting such a lovely dress.”
    She smoothed her hands over the dress, tracing the outline of her gorgeous figure. “My mom picked this out. Can you believe it?”
    Cole did, and would have to thank her for her contribution. “It’s lovely and complements your complexion.”
    She picked up a small pink evening bag and smiled at him. “Really? I thought it was a little out there, but I’m glad I let Mom and my sister-in-law talk me into it.” She walked toward him. “Ready?”
    Cole heard the pad of four paws on hardwood as Jordan trotted in from another room. Cole kneeled down to greet the canine wonder, but Jordan wasn’t having it. He trotted past Cole and sat at Kendall’s feet and whined. This was definitely a woman’s dog, Cole thought.
    “No, Jordi, I can’t pick you up. I’ll ruin this dress. I’ll be back soon and we’ll go for nice long run,” Kendall promised.
    Jordan scampered off in the opposite direction. Kendall laughed. “He’s mad. He’s going to sulk in the garage.”
    Cole stared at her. She was smiling like a proud parent. “I take it that happens quite a bit.”
    Kendall started to walk toward the door. “Usually, if I’m going out on a date or something. It’s a wonder he didn’t try to bite you. That’s what happened the last time I had a date.”
    He wanted to ask how long ago, but that wouldn’t be proper…or would it? “Well, thank goodness he didn’t draw blood tonight or we’d never get to the ball.” He opened her front door and waved her outside. “Your carriage awaits, Cinderella.”
    “Why did you say that?”
    He noticed the change in her tone, almost accusatory. “Sorry, I didn’t mean anything by it, Kendall.”
    She took a deep breath, fighting off whatever was rolling around in her head. “It’s okay, Cole. I guess I’m just a little on edge about this evening.”
    * * *
    Unfortunately, Kendall’s disposition only got worse. The minute she and Cole arrived at the Arlington Annual Charity Gala, everyone was treating them as if they were a true couple. She hated it, but Cole loved the attention and quickly fell into character by calling her “honey” at appropriate times in front of the Gala president. They were photographed and placed at a discreet table in the corner of the large ballroom in the Hilton Hotel.
    “Away from prying eyes,” said the president. “Just in case you lovebirds want to make out.” She winked at them.
    The Charity Gala was best described as the catch-all affair for every charity in Arlington. Instead of all the local organizations doing fundraisers year-round, there was one large charity event where one could donate to any charity they so desired. This year it was a carnival theme and tonight was the official presentations of the check.
    Kendall nibbled on her vegetarian meal as Cole did the same with his filet mignon. She was amazed at the number of people, mostly women, who visited their table. She couldn’t decide if it was a territorial thing or not. “Seems like you have quite a following.”
    He smiled at her. “Jealous? I have been writing for quite a while, you know. I have a dedicated fan base. Some people do love my subject matter and find it entertaining.”
    Kendall was one of those loyal fans. She’d read every book he’d ever published, but pride would prevent her from divulging that little secret. “I’m sure some people find that kind of book intriguing.”
    “But you’re not one of those people,” Cole said.
    “I have no idea what you mean.” Kendall ate a spoonful of garlic mashed potatoes.
    He took a drink of wine and leaned toward her. “I have a photographic memory. I distinctly