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Unfortunately, he doubted he could stay away from her. She was the type of woman he always imagined he could be with. He’d been immediately drawn to her when he met her at the bar, and their date last night exceeded his expectations. He realized that he was getting more attached than he probably should.
Another date won’t hurt. Although he didn’t have any time to seriously date, he couldn’t pass up the opportunity to get to know her more. One could argue that he was thinking too much about the situation, but he’d have to disagree. If anything, he wasn’t thinking enough given all he’d been through with women in the past couple years.
“Look, I spot some seats.” Kendrick followed Angelica and Monty to three open seats in the corner of the room.
“Hey, you never did tell me why you missed poker night yesterday,” Monty said.
“I wasn’t aware that I had to give you a rundown of my schedule when I cancel,” Kendrick said with a laugh. “But if you must know, I had a date.”
Angelica rolled her eyes. “An actual date or a booty call?”
“An actual date.” Kendrick smiled as he thought about the flushed look on Bianca’s face last night when they’d almost kissed.
“I’d say it was a very good date given that smile on your face,” Angelica said. “What about all your nondating rules and avoiding love until you land a lead director role?”
“I still plan on sticking to my plan. A few harmless dates won’t hurt.”
“A few?” Monty asked. “One date and you’re already planning on seeing her again? This isn’t the Kendrick I know.”
“Very funny.” Kendrick shrugged. “I don’t know, man. It’s something about her that’s different. She has this no bullshit attitude that’s kinda refreshing. She says whatever is on her mind without caring what others may think.”
“You got all this from one date?” Angelica asked.
“Well, technically we hung out the first night we met, so I guess it’s more like two dates.”
“Two dates and Mr. Dodge Cupid’s Arrow is already planning on more dates.” Angelica gave Monty a knowing look. “Monty, I think working on these Valentine’s Day commercials is going to his head.”
“It’s not that big of a deal,” he said. “I’m just open to enjoying the company of a woman, that’s all. Nothing serious.”
“So, I take it she doesn’t work in the industry?” Monty asked. If there were any two people who worked in television who knew the drama he’d gone through with his ex, it was his two friends Monty and Angelica.
“She didn’t say what she did specifically, but I know it has to do with makeup and hair because she mentioned enjoying making up faces and designing hairstyles.”
Angelica lifted an eyebrow. “And you didn’t ask to see her résumé just to be sure?”
“I actually said she was lucky that I didn’t ask for it,” Kendrick said with a laugh. “So, no, I didn’t ask. Guys, I’m better than I used to be. Bianca and I just enjoyed one another as two people would on any first date. Nothing more.”
“Except that you want to see her again,” Monty said.
“Which says a lot, considering your past,” Angelica added. Voices in the front of the room interrupted their conversation.
“As much as I enjoy meeting up with women in my black book, it feels nice to go on a date again,” Kendrick whispered. “And this is LA, so the fact that she’s not from here and not in the television or film industry is a good thing.”
“Okay, everyone,” the producer said to the crew gathered in the packed room. “As most of you know, we’re running behind schedule with filming the commercials. Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, so we only have four weeks to finish shooting the remainder of the Valentine’s Day commercials and documentary to get them out before the holiday. That is not a lot of time, so be prepared to work overtime.”
Movement on the right side of the room got his attention as someone slid through the door, but too many people were standing for him to see who it was.
“Thank you for all your hard work so far on both projects, and now I’d like to introduce you to the new members of our team who will be filling in for the crew we lost to other projects.”
As the producer introduced the new set design team, Kendrick’s eyes were glued to the backside of a woman who felt vaguely familiar. The next moments seemed to happen in slow motion as the woman was introduced to the group, her gaze finding his as she glanced around the room. The widening of her eyes proved she was just as surprised to see him as he was to see her.
The next few minutes of the meeting flew by so quickly that Kendrick didn’t notice the woman was already headed his way until she was standing in front of him.
“Hey, KD,” she said when she approached. “You work in television?”
He didn’t answer until Angelica nudged him. “Um, yeah,” he finally said. “I have for six years.”
“Oh,” she said when he didn’t say more. “Today’s my first day in the industry.”
Of course it is, because the universe had a funny way of making him pay for his past booty calls.
“Hi, I’m Angelica Smith and this is Monty Williams.”
“Nice to meet you,” she said. “I’m Nicole LeBlanc.”
“Nicole?” Kendrick’s eyes studied hers. “You told me your name was Bianca.”
She gave a sheepish grin. “Actually, Nicole is my first name. When we met at the bar the other day, I didn’t know you so I gave you my middle name. I guess I should have corrected you yesterday.”
“So, you lied?” Kendrick said, a little harsher than he’d planned.
“It wasn’t like that,” she said. “How we met was awkward enough. Back where I’m from, women don’t just give out their name to strangers until they know a little more about them.”
“And where exactly are you from?”
She frowned. “I’m from Miami, but I’m not sure I want to answer any more of your questions based off the accusatory tone in your voice. What gives, KD?”
“KD?” Angelica questioned. When he glanced at his friends, he caught that parental look in their eyes. Angelica and Monty were only a few years older than him, but they never failed to remind him of that fact.
“I guess I can’t get on you about your name when I didn’t give you my full name either,” he said. “KD is short for Kendrick Dominic and my last name is Burrstone. Some call me KD, but most call me Kendrick.”
Her eyes softened. “Guess that makes us even.” She extended a hand. “It’s nice to officially meet you, Kendrick.”
“It’s nice to meet you too, Nicole,” he said, accepting her handshake. “I missed part of your introduction. What’s your role on set?”
She smiled. “I’m the new makeup artist and hairstylist for the commercials and documentary.”
“Congratulations,” he said. “Based off our conversation last night, I’m sure you’ll do well.”
She studied his eyes. “Thanks, Kendrick, I appreciate that.”
He didn’t miss the soft way his named rolled off her tongue. Even under the circumstances, he still felt the chemistry between them. Just a few minutes ago, he’d been convinced he’d see her again, but now? Now, those thoughts went out the window.
* * *
He was uncomfortable. She could tell. And he wasn’t the only one. Her morning had already started off rocky when she realized that she’d misplaced her lucky crystal necklace and run out of her favorite lipstick. To top it off, she’d taken the wrong train into work and was almost late for her introduction meeting.
The last person she expected to run into at her new place of employment was KD—or Kendrick, as she’d just learned. The only thing more awkward than spotting Kendrick in the audience during her introduction was speaking to him while trying to ignore the look of surprise and frustration on his face.
The surprise she could understand. But the frustration? She didn’t know what that was about.
She glanced at his friends before setting her eyes on him. “Well, it was nice seeing you again, but I’m going to head over to check out my station.”
“Okay,” he said. “It was nice seeing you too.”
She squinted her eyes before turning to walk away. I mean, do I smell or something? He can barely face me. What happened to the man I went on a date with last night?
“I’ll walk with you,” said the woman who’d introduced herself as Angelica.
“Thanks.”
“Have you gotten a tour?” Angelica asked when they were out of earshot of the men.
“Not yet, but I believe the producer’s assistant said she’d give me a tour in an hour or so.”
“Which basically means you’ll never get a tour,” Angelica said with a laugh. “We’re behind on shooting, so it’s all hands on deck right now.”
“No worries,” Nicole said. “I planned on setting up my station anyway. The assistant pointed me in the right direction when I arrived. Granted, we were walking fast to make the meeting on time, but I think I got the idea.”
“I’ll take you to it just in case.”
Nicole followed Angelica, annoyed that her mind was still stuck on Kendrick. What’s his deal anyway? Did she imagine that he was into her as much as she thought he was? He seemed so forthcoming last night and that night at the bar. But today? Today he seemed like he rather be doing anything other than talking to her.
“Don’t take it personally,” Angelica said, interrupting her thoughts. “Kendrick can be a real sourpuss when he gets his hopes up about something only to have it thrown back in his face.”
“What did he get his hopes up about?”
Angelica smiled. “You.”
“Me?”
“Yeah, you. Before the meeting started he was telling us how much he liked you.”
Nicole frowned. “He sure has a funny way of showing it.”
“Ignore him,” Angelica said, waving her arms in the air. “Seeing you here just caught him off guard. He’ll get over it eventually. Kendrick is just really particular with separating his personal and professional lives.”
Suddenly, a memory of what he’d said from last night popped into her mind. I have strict rules against mixing business with pleasure. Duh, of course! She didn’t know why she hadn’t remembered earlier.
“He was caught off guard because he doesn’t date people he works with, and as of today, him and I work together.”
“Bingo,” Angelica said as she placed her pointer finger in the air. “Kendrick is my friend and all, but the guy is a stickler for rules. And by you being here, my dear, it puts him in jeopardy of breaking one of his biggest.”
“This is crazy,” Nicole said, shaking her head. “We only went on one official date. The least he could do is be cordial to me. I mean, will we even cross paths that much? What’s his role here anyway?”
“He’s the creative director,” Angelica said. “And you’re right, you both won’t work too closely together, but your paths will definitely cross. Like I said before, we’re all hands on deck right now. Here you are.” Angelica pointed to a slightly ajar door. “Your station will be here, but I assume you’ll be on set when filming for touch-ups on hair and makeup. The producer or his assistant will probably be by soon to give you more details.”
“Thanks, Angelica,” Nicole said. “It was much easier finding this place with assistance.”
“You’re welcome. If you need anything else, don’t hesitate to reach out.”
Once Nicole was in the room by herself, she sat in the high styling chair and stared at her reflection in the mirror. This is your day, she reminded herself. It’s the most high-profile job you’ve ever had, and the worst thing you can do is focus on a man.
She knew her warning was much needed, but even so, she couldn’t stop thinking about Kendrick. It was one thing when she was trying to remind herself not to think about a man when she was in the confines of her own solo space. It was another thing entirely when she’d have to see the object of her desire every day when he wasn’t interested in her anymore. This should be interesting.
Chapter 4
“And cut. Folks, that’s a wrap for this commercial. Let’s set the stage for the next one. Filming will begin tomorrow morning.”
“Good job, Nick,” Kendrick said to the director after Nick had given instructions to the crew for tomorrow.
“Thanks, man. You too.”
As he had been doing for the past four days, the minute Kendrick was out of his chair, he headed to his right and out the side door. Typically, he would chat with Angelica, Monty and some of the other crew. However, since he had to see Nicole every time she came on set to touch up makeup for the actors and actresses, he’d gotten out of there.
Unfortunately, today was also the day that Angelica decided to intervene with his new routine.
“Oh, no, you don’t,” she said, following him. “Tonight a few members of the crew are going to the bowling alley down the street. You have to come.”
“I have plans tonight.”
Angelica placed a hand on her hip. “Plans with who?”
“Bryant,” he said, thinking quick on his feet. Anyone else who he normally hung out with lately was part of the crew that he assumed was going bowling.
“That’s funny,” Angelica said, waving her iPhone in front of Kendrick. “Because I texted Bryant a little while ago, and he said you didn’t have plans with him tonight.”
Kendrick shook his head. “I should have never introduced Bryant to you and Monty.”
“Kendrick, you are putting forth so much effort to avoid Nicole. Don’t you think that is a little silly? Monty and I really like her, and so does most of the crew.”
“I’m not avoiding her.”
Angelica quirked an eyebrow. “Oh, really? Is that why you’ve slipped out this side door every day?”
He shrugged. “I have things to do.”
“Liar. It doesn’t matter anyway because you have to go. The production manager isn’t going and said you’d buy a round of drinks for everyone.”
“The assistant director isn’t going?”
“Nope! Neither are any of the producers, so you can stop thinking about the hierarchy of who else could cover a round of drinks because...it’s you...and you’re coming. So, man up! Most the crew is there and the rest of us are headed out soon.”
She’s right, man, he thought after Angelica went back inside. You’re acting ridiculous. He definitely wasn’t behaving like a thirty-five-year-old man, but more like a teenager who was avoiding a woman he had a crush on for fear that he wouldn’t be able to hide his attraction.
Mind made up, Kendrick went back inside to join the remaining crew headed to the bowling alley.
* * *
“Men against women,” someone yelled as they put on their bowling shoes.
“Game on,” another yelled. Nicole laughed at the smack talk going on around her. The television crew had blocked off two lanes at a local bowling alley, and she was honored when Angelica and Monty had invited her to join them.
She was almost finished with her first week with the crew. Although leading the makeup and hairstyles for the commercials and ensuring the actors and actresses were camera-ready had been going amazingly well, she’d been making a conscious effort to be more of an extrovert.
It wasn’t that Nicole didn’t like meeting new people, but oftentimes, she was a little awkward around new people. It was something she’d been working on for years and had only recently gotten better at.
“Ladies, our team captain has finally arrived,” Monty said to the group. Nicole glanced up after she finished tying her shoes. Kendrick. She’d seen him on and off set all week, but he’d barely made eye contact with her since they’d started working together.
As he dapped fists and exchanged hugs with the crew, Nicole took the time to observe him in a way she hadn’t been able to all week. He was wearing dark jeans and a beige long-sleeved button-up that would look simple on any other man, but not Kendrick. On Kendrick, the simple outfit looked a lot better than it should.
She didn’t think it was possible, but he looked even sexier than he had the first night they’d met. And apparently, a lot of the women in the crew felt the same way. She’d walked in on several conversations in the kitchenette of women discussing how great Kendrick looked in his rugged, yet classic, style. Or how easy he was to talk to about their man problems, and that his advice was extremely helpful. It seemed that everyone liked being around Kendrick, and he was friends with most of the crew. Except me... Her feelings would probably be more hurt if another reoccurring topic people discussed about Kendrick wasn’t the fact that he strict rules about dating anyone in the television and film industry. Apparently, quite a few women had tried to get him to change that rule and failed. So instead of being the guy every woman set their sights on dating, every woman aimed to at least maintain a friendship with him. Too bad she couldn’t get anything past a “hello” or “goodbye.”
“Are you doing okay?” Angelica asked as she approached.
“Yeah, I’m doing good. Thanks for inviting me.”
“Anytime,” Angelica said. “Do you like bowling?”
“Actually, I’m pretty good at it. I was in a bowling league in high school and college. Even a little after college before I decided to focus on my career. I have my own bowling ball and shoes, but I left them back home in Miami.”
“You’re a bowler,” Angelica said enthusiastically. “As in, you were in leagues and therefore really great at it?”
Nicole squinted her eyes. “Um, yeah. I guess that’s what I’m saying.”
Angelica rose from her seat. “Don’t be so confident, boys.” She pulled Nicole from her seat so fast that she almost tripped over one of her shoes that she’d just changed from. “We have a semipro on our hands. Nicole is going to be our team captain, and I hope you know that you’re going down!”
“Oh, no no no no,” Nicole stammered. “I’m not a semipro. Not even close. Don’t get me wrong, I’m a good bowler, but I don’t need to be team captain.”
“Relax,” Angelica said. “This is all in fun and games, but if you must know, the women have lost to the men the past three times we’ve bowled, and they won’t let us forget it. I’m not trying to pressure you, but we could use a win or at the least give them a run for their money.”
Nicole followed Angelica to where the other women were standing. They all looked at Nicole expectantly.
“Okay,” Nicole said with a sigh. “I’ll be team captain, but first we need to strategize the order we list the players.”
Angelica gave her a wide-eyed stare. “Picking the order of players takes strategy?”
“Yes, it does. For example, we may want a midlevel bowler to go first to start us off right. Then our weaker players in the middle. Our closers—meaning those who bowl well—will be at the end. So, who’s on what level?”
Nicole glanced around at the other women, who were wearing the same look on their faces as Angelica.
“Okay,” Angelica said. “I’m midlevel, so I’ll go first. And you’re our pro, so you go last.” The other women nodded in agreement.
“Okay, that works. Does anyone know how to throw a good hook?” Nicole asked.
“I do,” said Britt, one of the writers for the commercial series. “I take self-defense classes, and one of the first things they teach you is how to throw a good left or right hook.”
Nicole laughed. “I meant a bowling hook. It’s a technique you use to bowl the ball.”
“Oh,” Britt said in disappointment. “I can’t even throw a curve ball. I once tried and ended up knocking down pins two lanes over.”
“No worries. Anyone else have any bowling skills?”
Each woman sheepishly looked to the floor. Although Nicole took her bowling games seriously, all she could do was laugh. She was sure it sounded like she was speaking a foreign language.
“We’ll make it work,” Nicole said. “Before we start, I’ll give each of you a few pointers.” She couldn’t turn them into good bowlers in ten minutes, but she could at least teach them the basics.
* * *
She’s beating me, Kendrick thought as he waited for Nicole to bowl on her lane before he took his turn on his. Even though she was beating him only by fifteen points, she was still winning, and that fact only made him more intrigued.
“Staring at my ass isn’t going to help you bowl better,” Nicole said with her back still to him. The laugh he released was so loud, he was sure he drew the attention of the rest of the crew. Hell, he and Nicole were practically the entire show since they were the only true bowlers on both teams.
“I beg to differ,” he said, ignoring the warning bells he’d been hearing all week when it came to Nicole. “I think staring at your ass will definitely help me bowl better.”
She glanced at him over her shoulder with a sneaky smirk on her face. They were on the seventh frame, and both were the last to bowl on each team. Until now, they had been shooting discreet glances at each other, but neither had voiced anything aloud. As they neared the end of the game, it seemed all bets were off.
“Try not to look,” she said quietly so only he could hear. He would have asked her what she meant by that, only he found out seconds later when she bent over a little farther than necessary, giving him a great view of her butt in her jeans. He shouldn’t have been staring, but he was a man, after all, and when a man saw a nice ass, he looked. Period.
“Your turn,” she said after bowling a strike. She unzipped the crop jacket she’d been wearing, revealing her tight tank and beautiful round breasts. Shit. He knew she had a pair of delicious breasts, but he had yet to see them on display the way they were now. He didn’t even have to look back at the other men to see if they were admiring her figure, as well.
That wasn’t the only thing that caught his attention. Nicole had three visible tattoos, one of which was on her breast.
“That’s it, girl. Show him what you’re working with,” Angelica yelled from her seat. Nicole laughed, the sound tickling his ears in the best way. Despite her best attempt to distract him, he bowled a strike.
“She’s still ahead,” Monty whispered when he and Nicole were almost up again. “You have to find a way to distract her because she’s only hitting strikes and spares.”
Kendrick glanced at Nicole and caught her staring at him. She raised her drink, obviously satisfied with the fact that she was beating him. Damn, she even looks good sitting there doing nothing. Her curls were pulled up on both sides and flowing down her back in the middle. The curly Mohawk style fitted her personality and tonight she was sporting a bright purple lipstick that matched a design in the jacket she had taken off. Kendrick had never really paid attention to lip colors before, but Nicole’s lips commanded his undivided attention.
When Monty announced that it was time for them to go, Kendrick had a thought. If she likes tats, maybe it’s time I show off a couple of mine. One thing Kendrick rarely did was show off his tats in a work setting. However, this was technically a gathering of friends he happened to work with. Besides, he’d been to a pool party with a few of them before, so it wasn’t anything they hadn’t seen.
Before he stepped up to the lane, he removed his button-up, leaving him in a white short-sleeved tee. May not seem like much, but he had a couple tattoos that were known to get a lot of attention, especially from others in the tattoo community. Just as he’d predicted, Nicole’s eyes roamed over his arms in admiration.
Kendrick stepped up to the lane and bowled another spare, so his only hope in catching up to Nicole was if she didn’t bowl a strike or spare. He turned around in time to catch her biting her lower lip as she continued to observe him. Got her, he thought as he walked toward her.
Leaning close to her ear, he lowered his voice. “Try not to drool too hard, sweetie. You wouldn’t want to slip and fall when you take your turn.”
“Boy, please,” she said, slapping his arm. “You’re not all that.”
“Oh, really, I’m not?” He met her eyes. “Because just a few seconds ago, you were undressing me with your eyes. Unless I imagined it, you bit your bottom lip in a way that proved you liked what you saw.”