Chapter 27
"Another date with the young stud last night?" Shelly called out when Lucy arrived the next day.
"Not that it's any of your business, but yes. And for the last damn time, his name is Paul."
"I know his name, silly. I'm just still happy you landed such an amazing, sexy guy."
"Shell, I'm still stunned--though happy--that I landed someone like him, especially since he can have practically anyone."
"But he chose you. You must have something going on that got his attention in the first place."
"Not sure what that is, but I can say he got mine just from being a nice guy and not a jackass like a lot of men his age are."
"Apparently one hell of a kisser too," Shelly giggled.
"And you know this how, Miss Busybody?"
"Duh, the night in the Marriott parking lot? And who knows how much tonsil hockey and 'doctor' you two have played since then. Seems every time he's here, you come in the next day grinning like a Cheshire cat."
"Jesus, you're a nosy shit," Lucy said, giving her a look. "Yes, he's a very good kisser."
"So what's new with the big franchise project? He still on you about that?"
"But of course, especially since I told him Owen is trying to push my work with some of his own contacts down there."
"Good, at least you'll have a running start."
"Let's hope so," Lucy sighed.
"So getting back to the sexy boyfriend, how is the birthday present thing progressing?"
"Frank called me earlier and said things should be ready by Friday."
"Excellent! Then you'll have plenty of time to send it."
"Yeah, but it looks like there won't be much of a hurry as I thought."
"Oh? Why is that?"
"Evidently, Paul wasn't 100 percent healed from his last injury. He's taking a few weeks off."
"Oh, damn, that has to suck."
"I can see dedication to one's work, but I think he's a little gung ho about it at times. I just hope he doesn't get stupid and do something that could cause permanent damage. He's got a lot of potential."
"In the ring or out?" Shelly asked with a grin.
"I'd say both. And get your mind out of the gutter. He's going to try to read for some film and stage parts while he's off."
"Wow, the man doesn't slow down, does he? First flying back and forth to see you and now acting? Holy shit."
"Stella told me about a project she's in looking for guys to model for it too. It sounds great from what she said about it. I sent Paul over while he's hanging around for a couple of days. And don't tell anyone--especially not Priscilla--but I did a few test shots of him on my own time awhile back."
"So that's why you two were here on a Saturday."
"Yes, and there was no fooling around if you must know. Again, not a word to anyone."
"Sure, but what's the big secret?"
"Well, I have a couple of things in mind, but I want to feel those prospects out first. I still say the man has a career beyond killing other guys in the ring, and if I can help launch him in another aspect, then he could really go places."
"Uh oh," Shelly replied. "I don't know what you're up to, Luce, but I have a feeling this is going to be something big."
