Styles of Seduction

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She nodded. “I did.”

“Good.”

Zoe gazed at Jerry. “Why are you two always trying to best the other? You’re both very talented. Your work speaks for itself.”

“I earned my reputation the hard way,” Jerry said. “Kyle was born into his. He hasn’t had to work for anything.”

“Kyle’s worked hard to earn the respect of the industry.”

“Why are you defending him, Zoe?”

“I’m not,” she said.

“If you say so,” Jerry muttered.

It was clear to Zoe that Jerry truly believed Kyle had not really paid his dues, but there was no point in arguing, so she changed the subject.

“I’ve been playing around with an idea. Would you like to hear it?”

Jerry sat down in a nearby chair. “Sure.”

“I was in SoHo over the weekend and I was inspired by the styles worn by shoppers from every country in the world—from chic to preppy to quirky. I was thinking we should create a SoHo fall collection with international flair.”

Jerry broke into a grin. “I love it.” After a moment, he said, “You know, I think we should attend the RHD party. How would you feel about being my date?”

Zoe paused a heartbeat before responding, “I’m fine with it.”

He studied her face. “You sure?”

Gritting her teeth, Zoe lifted her chin and met his gaze. “Of course. Why wouldn’t I be?”

“Are you worried about seeing everyone at RHD?”

Zoe shook her head. “No, it’ll be fine. I’m looking forward to catching up with my former coworkers.”

Her life was different now, she reminded herself. She was a woman on the rise, and Zoe would not allow her feelings for Kyle to get in the way.

All she had to do was keep her distance and things would be fine.

* * *

Sasha seethed with anger as she stood outside Zoe’s office, eavesdropping on Zoe and Jerry deep in conversation.

“I hate her guts,” she whispered. Sasha had never received an invitation to the RHD show in all of the years she had worked at Guava International. She had worked hard to earn a leadership role in the company, but it was to no avail.