chin. Yes, she would. But Bennett would never see her as that. He’d never understand how sorry she was. “I do. In fact, I needed to tell you that the material I gave you was—”
“Mr. Wade, I’m shocked,” Mary said. “Have you been taking this course from Ms. Reed?”
Keeping his fierce gaze glued to Taylor, Bennett gave a quick nod. “Yes, and I’ve learned quite a lot.” His eyes flickered toward Chip for a moment, making his point clear to Taylor—that he saw her being with Chip as a sign of betrayal. Or maybe he was disappointed? She didn’t know.
Mary let out a little laugh. “Well, that is impressive, Mr. Wade. I never saw you as a man who pursued self-improvement. I thought I noticed something different about you, but couldn’t put my finger on it.”
Mary actually seemed…pleased? Whatever coaching ideas Bennett had exercised today, he must’ve only used them minimally.
Mary added, “And now we know we have you to thank for it, Ms. Reed.” She smiled and it seemed genuine.
Taylor mentally phewed, realizing she’d panicked for no reason. And now that she thought about it, she should’ve known that Bennett’s arrogance would take over and demand he do things his way. I’m Bennett Fucking Wade. The boss!
Bennett kept his sharp gaze focused on Taylor. “Yes, thank you, Ms. Reed, for enlightening me.”
“And I should thank you, old boy,” Chip said, “for getting my beautiful Taylor here to Paris.” Chip brushed Taylor’s cheek lovingly, and she wanted to shrink away, but didn’t. “You have no idea how long I’ve waited for her to come around.”
Bennett’s face turned an embittered shade of red.
Oh God. This was not going well. Or maybe it was? Bennett’s deal with Mary seemed to be moving forward, despite everything.
Taylor needed to take a moment and regroup. “I am going to use the powder room.” She stood, and Chip did the same, pulling out her chair like an attentive boyfriend, a wickedly triumphant smile on his face.
“Don’t keep us waiting long, mon cherie,” Chip said.
“I think I weel join her.” Brigitte moved to stand, and Bennett rose to pull back her chair. She leaned forward and kissed Bennett on the cheek. “I’ll be right back, Benny.”
Benny? Taylor wanted to hurl. Was that the name he let women use when their relationship was more than just fucking? Maybe “Benny” was the next level up, like boyfriend or perhaps serious snuggler and “Ben” was reserved for his future wife.
Taylor swallowed back her jealousy, trying to focus on the positive. She hadn’t ruined Bennett’s life—good—and now she knew the truth: He hadn’t really been interested in her at all. He’d gone on a booty call or snuggly session or whatever Benny did with a beautiful woman like Brigitte.
Yes, I finally understand my place in his world.
Not turning around to look at the supermodel on her heels, Taylor found the bathroom. Once inside, she went to the vanity area next to the sinks to freshen up her makeup and convince herself that she could make it through the night without crying.
Who are you kidding? You’re so going to cry. She’d simply have to tell everyone she wasn’t feeling well. It wouldn’t be breaking her deal with Chip, so why not?
Brigitte came out of the stall, tugging down her black dress. “Well, I think,” she said eyeing herself in the mirror, “dat we’ve both done nice. Oui?”
“Sorry?” Taylor said.
“We both have ourselves a nice reech boyfriend. Life is gud, no?”
“Yeah,” Taylor said glumly, pulling out her lipstick. “Life is good. So how long have you been dating, Benn—Mr. Wade?”
Brigitte shrugged. “We went out the last two times he was in town. You know—for a leettle fun. But I told him,” she wagged her finger, “the next time he comes to me, he’d better be ready to give me more, or he can lose my number.”
“Really?” Taylor asked.
“I won’t be young forever, and I habe two other very reech men who are interested.” She shrugged. “But I do not geeve zi milk for free, like some women.” Her eyes washed over Taylor.
Taylor got the not so subtle slap, but didn’t let it get to her. Honestly, her mind was set on something else. Sheer rage. This bitch was exactly the reason Bennett had issues. Frigging gold digger!
“So you think Bennett has come for your milk?” Taylor asked.
“Why else? I think he weel propose tonight, actually.”
Taylor was going to be sick. Literally sick. Well, at least now you don’t have to fake being ill.
“Want