Total pages in book: 21
Estimated words: 19017 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 95(@200wpm)___ 76(@250wpm)___ 63(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 19017 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 95(@200wpm)___ 76(@250wpm)___ 63(@300wpm)
I also learned that I trusted him wholeheartedly. If I didn’t, I wouldn’t have jumped into his car with him. Living in the city, I was careful around everyone and typically suspicious of my surroundings. But I had zero qualms about trusting Sloan. Whether or not that was a monumental mistake was yet to be seen.
But that thought alone didn’t sit right with me. It was easy to dismiss. I somehow shared a connection with this man, and I knew only good things would come from it. I didn’t understand it, but I was excited to experience it for all it was worth.
I expected Sloan to drive us to a bustling high-end restaurant. Not that I needed that type of treatment, but it seemed to be a better fit for a successful sports star than the cute little restaurant he parked next to. It had beautiful stone statues on each side of the front door, and ivy growing up the side walls. A large sign hung above the entrance which read Grecian Garden.
“Do you like Greek food?” Sloan asked hopefully as he switched off the engine.
“I've never tried it.”
His eyes widened, along with the grin on his handsome face. “I'm happy I get to introduce you to it. You're in for a treat.” He exited the SUV and hurried to my side, opening the door for me and taking my hand to help me out. He laced our fingers together and held me close as we walked into the restaurant.
We were met with cries of, “Opa!”, before several staff members approached Sloan. They all seemed to know him, because they were hugging him and patting his back as they shared animated conversations that I couldn't understand.
Sloan pointed to me and said something, making the group exclaim again and wrap me in hugs of my own. Once they finally released me, the crowd hurried back to work, and Sloan led me to a booth in the back of the restaurant, where he slid in beside me.
I blinked in surprise over what just happened before inferring, “You speak Greek.”
“It's my native language,” he replied with a smile, and I was finally able to pinpoint his sexy accent.
“So, you grew up in Greece, then?”
“No, but everyone I grew up with was immersed in the culture. When I came to this city, I was excited to find this place; it reminded me of home. I grew close to the family who runs it, and they're now like family to me as well.”
“That's so sweet.” It was easy to see why the staff were drawn to Sloan; anyone would be. “So, what did they say to you?”
“They were congratulating me on the fight, and then for finding you. I think they were more excited for the second part.”
“Does that mean you don't bring many guys here?” I asked hopefully. I felt territorial over this man already, and I wanted this outing to be something special between the two of us.
Sloan’s eyes twinkled as he gave an understanding smile. “I've only ever visited this place with Christos, and only as friends. We grew up together, and he enjoys it here as much as I do.” He leaned closer to tell me, “You never need to worry about such things. Though I have regrettably given into past trysts, I have left my heart open for its one true mate. I have been waiting for you.”
My heart fluttered at his words, which made perfect sense but confused the hell out of me at the same time. Before I could get any words out of my mouth, a short, pleasantly plump older woman approached our table carrying two plates in one hand, and two glasses of water in the other. I was impressed by her ability to juggle it all effortlessly.
“Thank you, Maria,” Sloan told the woman, who giggled and pinched his cheek before walking away. He turned his attention to me and said, “This is my favorite meal; I always get it after winning a match to celebrate. Maria never has to ask anymore; she just brings it to me. I hope it’s okay. If not, I can order something else for you.”
I was touched that the employees knew him so well, and by his thoughtfulness, but I wouldn’t have a clue what to order. I trusted his judgment and replied, “No, this is great. I want to try the things you like. What is it?”
“Moussaka.”
“Moussaka,” I repeated. “Why does that sound so familiar?” I knew I’d never eaten the dish, but its name struck a chord. I searched my mind and felt a little foolish when I realized and admitted, “Oh…I was thinking of Mufasa. You know; from The Lion King?”
Sloan chuckled, his whole face lighting up with a wide smile. “You’re adorable.” My cheeks heated until he bumped his shoulder into mine and said, “I like that movie. We didn’t have films where I came from. When I came here and discovered them, I watched as many as I could get my hands on; between training, of course. And I really liked that one.”