The Do-Over Read Online Free PDF Page B

throaty, good-natured laugh as if they were sharing a joke.
    “Well, no kidding, Sherlock. I planned to give myself a makeover, silly! That’s one of the things I hope you can help me with. And trust me, I’m not really this aggressive.”
    “Then you’re a damn good actress,” Kyle grumbled with irritation.
    “This is business, and I’m a professional. I have to act this way. Otherwise, you’d never take me seriously”—she held a hand up to Kyle’s open mouth to quiet him—“and despite what you’re about to say, I know you’re taking me seriously. I’m blunt and brash because I have to be at work. Unfortunately, I’m pretty lost when it comes to personal stuff.”
    “Shocker,” Kyle whispered, wishing for another drink.
    Lanie stood, walked over to get her purse, and pulled out a few bills from her wallet. “I’ll pay for your dinner,” Kyle offered, realizing what little chivalry he had was creeping up despite his repulsion for this girl. He was being a total jerk and felt somewhat remorseful, but it upset him even more that her reaction was so strange.
    “No, I’ll pay for yours. It’s the least I can do after I’ve distracted you from the leggy blonde all night.” She turned and looked toward the bar. “By the way, the Bears lost like I said, but the blonde’s still here. Good luck to you.” She put on her coat and gathered her large purse.
    Kyle almost said good luck back to her, but then he realized how absurd that sounded.
    “I’m telling Brad to get a restraining order on you.”
    She shrugged. “Go ahead. I’m a damn good lawyer, and it’s your word against mine. Besides, I know I’ve piqued your interest tonight.”
    “You haven’t piqued anything.”
    “Keep telling yourself that, but we both know it’s not true. When she’s crying out your name”—Lanie gestured to the leggy blonde—“you’ll be crying out Pulitzer.”
    With that, she smiled sweetly and waved good-bye. “Call me.”
    She walked off, leaving Kyle speechless, rattling the ice cubes in his empty glass.

Chapter Four
    Lanie had been nervously contemplating the results of her crazy meeting with Kyle Masterson all day. She knew she’d made him uncomfortable, which was no small feat in light of his reputation as a composed journalist and suave heartbreaker. She was pleased she’d pulled it off without breaking a sweat. Lanie would have given Kyle the article no matter what, but in any negotiation, she had to use whatever leverage she could. Her plan appeared to be working when Kyle texted and asked her to meet for lunch. She returned his text, stating that she usually ate lunch at her desk, which was true. He replied back that if she wanted his help, she’d better meet him at Joe’s Café in an hour. Lanie was anxious at the prospect of a second meeting with Kyle. She was having second thoughts. She didn’t ever play games, and she wasn’t now. She just felt a connection with Brad that she’d never felt with anyone. She owed it to herself to explore the possibility of her first and only crush. She finally agreed to meet with Kyle. After all, she’d already started this crazy roller-coaster ride. She couldn’t just abruptly end it.
    Joe’s Café was close to her office, and Kyle was waiting at a secluded table in the back. Lanie took a seat across from him this time, nervously adjusting her hair. The first time they’d met, she’d been prepared to present her case. This was cross-examination time, and she had no idea what was in store.
    Kyle looked cool as a cucumber in his charcoal suit and purple tie that contrasted with his green eyes nicely. It was a damn shame he was such an egotistical man-slut. Were arrogance and good looks cause and effect traits in all people? It was true with her sister too. Cassie was conceited and selfish, but men vied for her attention. At least Brad had a sweet disposition. In Lanie’s estimation, Brad Jansen seemed to be one of the only exceptions to the