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I take a sip, not sure what to say.

Samuel watches me over the top of his glass.

“He’s professional, powerful, and sex-on-legs. He gets things done. Look at Sunny Down and what he’s trying to do for the community? What he’s done for you.”

I take another large swallow of my drink. I know what he’s saying is true.

Samuel sighs. “Yes, he has a love ‘em and leave ‘em reputation. But the man is in a different league from you and me.All I’m saying is he’s different from the man I’ve read about in the papers. The way he looks out for you. You need to cut him some slack.” He leans forward and takes my hand. “The pair of you have some serious chemistry. You need to get that man out of your system. He’s tying you up in knots.”

I stare at Samuel open-mouthed and take another drink. At this rate, we’ll be needing another round.

Is he right?

“So, what do you suggest?”

“I think the kiss will be just the start.” He gives me a slow smile, and I shake my head. He knows me too well. “Think about it. Maybe you can have some fun with Caleb. Just be careful and protect your heart.”

I don’t need to fall for Caleb Frazer. That would be a disaster of epic proportions. But it’s true, the man is invading my every waking and sleeping moment. Could we enjoy a sexual relationship but ensure it’s just that—sex? We wouldn’t need to exchange hearts, flowery words, or promises that can be broken, just simple orgasms. And experience knows the man can sure deliver those. Can we have a relationship built on mutual satisfaction?

My pussy contracts at the thought. My head and heart go into a tailspin. Just thinking about being with Caleb Frazer again, whether it’s in bed, on the sofa, or in the pool, causes a throbbing sensation between my thighs that I can’t ignore.

“How are things with Daniel?” I say, deciding it’s time to change the subject.

CHAPTER 34

CALEB

April and I have spent the past twenty-four hours dodging one another. Not my usual M.O., but with her living in my apartment, I want her to feel at home, not threatened, or like I’m expecting something from her. The kiss was stupid. I promised myself I’d stay away from her, but then we laughed, and she teased me. The kiss felt so natural. Only it wasn’t, and now we are being overly polite and awkward.

“This is quite a turnout,” Scarlett says, appearing at my shoulder.

“She’s loved by the community. I’m not sure even she realises how much,” I reply, turning around and giving her a hug. “Thank you for suggesting this.”

Scarlett looks at me and grins. “Oh, believe me, this is me being completely selfish. I want April on board. She’s incredibly talented.”

I smile at her and nod. I know she is. I’m just hoping other people telling her will help make April believe it.

It’s not long before it’s standing room only. Scarlett has moved towards April, and they are deep in conversation. Shelaughs at something Scarlett says, and I think back to our run. She was open and laughing with me that day. I would do anything to have that part of her again.

“Caleb,” a voice appears behind me.

“Mum? What are you doing here?” I turn and face my mother. The matriarch of our family and a great parent, albeit a little meddlesome at times.

She pats my cheek. “I’m representing the Frazer Foundation, darling. Scarlett and I have been talking about sponsorships. We’re looking at setting up drop-in centres. When Scarlett mentioned this project and her involvement, I thought this new development of yours could be our flagship. I’ve heard about the number of young people.”

“Mother,” I say. “A heads up would have been nice. You can’t just turn up and?—”

Ignoring me, she looks over towards Scarlett and April. “Ah, that must be April, the young lady I keep hearing so much about.”

I freeze, a sense of unease settling in my stomach.

“What do you mean?” I ask slowly.

“Nothing, dear. She’s quite the dancer. Scarlett was very complimentary. I’ll go over and introduce myself.”

She steps around me before I can stop her.

I’m going to string Scarlett up when I get my hands on her.