Free Her Best Match: A Romantic Comedy (The Best Girls Book 1) by Tamie Dearen Page A

talking about. And no, I didn’t do anything you should be angry about. All I did was prevent Henri from hurting you. He would just use you. You’re too naïve to realize, but I did the right thing.”
    “Let’s see… How did you put it?” She paused as if trying to recall. “I think I’m old enough to make my own decisions about my personal life and whom I’ll date and whether I’ll date anyone . But I suppose it’s impossible for you to believe a man might actually be interested in having a relationship with me. And I’m sure you’re right—he probably just wanted to use me. Why else would he talk to someone like me?” Anne wiped furiously at the tears that began to spill from her eyes.
    “That’s not what I meant.”
    “It really doesn’t matter—it’s a moot point, now.”
    “Well, for what it’s worth,” Gherring said quietly, “I’m sorry I hurt your feelings. But” he continued quickly, “I still believe I did the right thing.”
    Anne still refused to make eye contact. “Did you need help with anything else? Perhaps you’ve forgotten how to log in to your computer or make a phone call,” she suggested with a hint of sarcasm.
    “Actually, I do need your help today.” He hesitated. “We have an important client from Germany, and he brought his wife on the trip. We have a lunch meeting planned, and I thought you might come along so his wife would feel more comfortable. It would really be a great help, and it might help us land a big account.”
    Anne didn’t look up from her computer. “Of course, Mr. Gherring. I’ll be glad to help in any way.” Gherring was still standing at her desk. “Is there anything else, sir?”
    Gherring’s lips pressed in a straight line. “No, Ms. Best. That’s all for now. Thank you.” He disappeared into the conference room.
     
    Anne had never been in a limousine before. She tried to act nonchalant, but she couldn’t hide her excitement and curiosity. There was even a bar inside. The others were obviously accustomed to the fancy ride. The four men, including the client, Alexander Klein, were already intently discussing business. Johanna Klein was an attractive blond in her fifties with an engaging smile. She chatted comfortably with Anne, apparently fascinated by her life in Texas.
    “I can’t believe how well y’all both speak English. I’ve always wished I was fluent in another language,” Anne confessed to Johanna. “How many languages can you speak?”
    “I can speak German, English and French fluently. I can speak enough Italian and Spanish to communicate. We start language training at an early age in Germany, and I have traveled extensively.” Johanna glanced at her husband. “Alexander is a wonderful and unusual man—he has always invited me on all his travels. Most businessmen would think having their wives along was a bother.”
    “Oh, I’m so jealous. I haven’t really been anywhere. I’ve never even been out of the country, except one time across the border to Mexico for an hour. Even New York City is a big adventure for me, although I haven’t really done anything but work since I’ve been here. But I’ve got my passport—I got one fifteen years ago, just in case I ever got a chance to go somewhere. I even had it renewed.” She peered wistfully out the window. “You never know. Maybe someday…”
    Johanna glanced at Gherring who was casually eavesdropping. “So Mr. Gherring, however did you find your secretary? She is delightful!” She turned to her husband. “Alexander, can’t you get an extra ticket to the musical tonight? Anne needs to experience New York.”
    “Yes, of course you can bring her along. I acquired two extra tickets in case we needed them. And Mr. Gherring could come also. I’m sure we will still have business to discuss.”
    “Oh no—I couldn’t impose.” Anne stole a terrified look at Gherring. She knew he wouldn’t want to be seen in public with her. He was only seen in the company of