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“You could’ve set the record straight.”
A mischievous smile lifted a corner of his lips. “You’re the one who didn’t want me to pose as your boyfriend, so we settled on being cousins instead.”
“Yeah, but—ugh,” She groaned. “That was before I knew that you and I would end up like this.”
“Like what?” Amusement swirled in his eyes. “A couple?”
“I work with him, Brock. I don’t want him thinking I’m some weirdo in a kinky relationship!”
He frowned. “Are you that concerned about what Asher thinks?”
“Not in the way you’re suggesting,” she shot back. “But I have to see Asher every day. I have a reputation to uphold.” She nibbled on her lower lip. “Maybe we should just tell him the truth. I mean … so he doesn’t think I’m a pervert.”
Brock shrugged. “Fine with me.”
She narrowed her eyes. “You’re enjoying this way too much.”
“What?” he asked, feigning innocence. “I didn’t ask him to walk in.”
“Uh-huh. I’ve got your number, mister. You wanted him to know we’re together.”
The look in his eyes confirmed it. “I want the whole world to know we’re together,” he said simply.
“Just because we’ve kissed a few times doesn’t mean that we’re officially back together.”
Brock’s expression darkened with frustration. “If that’s the way you want it.”
Her eyes cut into his. “We had a deal, remember? We said we’d get through this situation with Steve Randall and then see where this thing with us goes.”
He nodded stiffly. “I remember.”
She could almost see him withdrawing from her, and she couldn’t let that happen. “Don’t be mad.” Her voice caught. “I need you, Brock.” An ache ballooned in her chest. “I just need more time. That’s all I’m asking.”
“Okay. His features relaxed. “Take all the time you need.”
It was amazing how relieved she was to hear him say that.
A second later, he clenched his jaw. “Just do me the one favor and stay away from Asher Winslow.”
“I’ll keep my relationship with him purely professional,” she promised. “You have my word.” Urgency fluttered in her breast. “I do need to go and set the record straight about the two of us not being cousins … before any rumors go flying.”
He took in a breath. “If you insist.”
“I insist,” she said firmly. Extricating herself from Brock’s arms, she went out to find Asher only to discover that he’d left.
Great! Now she’d have to wait until Monday at work to talk to him.
Chapter 18
The next morning, Jules woke up feeling like a new person. She ran her foot over the cool sheet and stretched with a long, satisfied yawn. She’d finally slept, and it had been the best night’s rest she could remember getting in weeks. Her lips curled into a soft smile as she replayed the incredible kiss she and Brock had shared in the kitchen.
She touched her mouth, remembering the burn of his lips on hers.
Okay … she almost was a goner.Almost.
She wasn’t about to let herself get swept away completely—not yet. Not until this ordeal with Steve Randall was over.
Her thoughts went back to Brock. Things were good, but there were still so many issues they hadn’t talked about. Like what would happen if they got back together for real. If it turned into marriage, would she have to give up her job and move to Coronado Island?