Bella's Choice Read Free Page A

together at the same firm in the city.”
    She looked at the most gorgeous man she had ever seen. She had to look up at him, and although she was five-foot-ten, he was still taller. Short, dark, golden-blond hair cut in the latest fashion crowned his head. He had big, sea-blue eyes. He was not a typical pretty boy, but a man with a firm jawline and rugged face. The shadow of day-old stubble made its appearance in a sexy manner. Charming character was written all over him, as well as experience in life; his lifelines a giveaway. Yet, he had a softness about him that made her want to step into his embrace and hug him, like a big teddy bear. Everything about him looked inviting to her.
    I would love to be hugged by him, she thought, and almost giggled but covered it just in time. He had broad, straight shoulders that said lean on me . He was solid all right, and she bet that his clothes disguised muscles all over.
    Sea-blue and emerald eyes met, and Anabella felt weak at the knees at the interested look he gave her. Throughout her young life, she had seen many men walk through the door of her parents’ house. Pretty and handsome ones, her mother’s favorite kind, but empty shells all the same; things in men that turned her off completely. But this man looked at her as if he saw her―past her outward appearance and at the real person―and that was a welcome first.
    She knew she was beautiful. Many people had told her so, but somehow, under his gaze, she felt stunning and a warm feeling nestled in her belly.
    A bit old for me , but very attractive , she thought and smiled at him, not the dimpled-smile previously given to her friends, but enough for Aldrich to have a good look at.
    And as soon as he’d seen that look, he’d immediately been in the mood for strawberries and cream, his favorite dessert. The rich velvet texture of the cream mixed with the sweet, pink fruit had always appealed to him. She reminded him of that, all velvety sweetness, and he smacked his lips. A soft smile appeared on his very lush lips.
     

     
    This was the first time Anabella had felt this way about any man. She had never experienced weak knees, or a racing heart for the opposite sex. In fact, because of her parents’ lifestyle she saw men as self-absorbed and horny, only interested in one thing. With this man, it was different. She felt safe, not wanting to run as far as possible. Yet, she hadn’t even spoken to him and already she felt a certain way about him. In fact, she wanted to get even closer.
    Her innocence and shyness caused her to look away when she caught the smile on his face. In turn, he was feeling a bit out of place, but he returned her gaze. He could tell she was aware of his gaze by the constant blush on her cheeks. He did not reveal anything but a good dose of curiosity, and a beautiful smile.
    With a deep, strong voice he greeted her, taking her hand in his. “Hello, sweetheart,” he said. The endearing word fell naturally from his lips.
    She nodded and greeted him as if it was the most natural thing to do. “Aldrich, pleased to meet you.”
    “The pleasure is all mine, sweetheart.”
    She looked up at him and saw a spark of approval in his eyes. His hands were muscular and calloused, not the hands of an office jock.
    He was self-assured, and confidence oozed out of him. As he spoke, his voice resembled the sound of a summer rain rumbling. It made her tingle all over and those eyes… she could disappear into them. She let go of his hand as she smiled, not too sure what to reply, and looked around the room for her friend who had left her right after the introduction.
    Before long, she returned her gaze to him. His closeness affected her heart rate greatly, his presence sent out rays of calmness that filtered through her, and she felt at ease next to him.
     

     
    Mr. Richter came in with drinks and a glass of orange juice on a tray, offering it to Anabella and Aldrich. They turned as he spoke from behind them, forcing