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Jacob smirked and dropped his eyes to her lips, then returned them.

“Would you like that, Carla?”

This time, it was Carla that watched him for a long minute. As much as she thought she wanted to be involved with Jacob, his inconsistency concerned her.

“Can I be honest?”

“I would prefer it.”

She rubbed her lips together. “It would help if I knew you were interested in me enough to hold a continuous connection. We’ve missed a few dates because you’ve called them off. I know you’re important, so if the time for dating or acquaintances isn’t ideal for your schedule, I’d rather know up front.”

He nodded. “Fair enough. I would like to see you consistently, Carla, but I don’t want to force what we may or may not have. So, if that’s friendship or more, I’d like for it to happen naturally with no complications.”

“Complications?”

He stared at her. “Or surprises.”

“Surprises?”

“Like you’re married but separated, or you’re dating multiple men or women.”

Her brows rose. “I see.” Her mind shuffled to Lennox, then Devin, at warp speed. “I think I’m pretty open about my relationships. I’ve told you before. I have male friends, nothing more. But I’m sure you have female friends as well.”

“Acquaintances. Colleagues. Clients. Family. Those are the women in my life.”

She nodded. “Have you ever cheated on a woman before, Jacob?”

His mouth spread into a wide smile. “No.”

Her lips cruised up her face. “You wouldn’t tell me a fairy tale, would you?”

“You tell me.”

“Deflecting?”

“Not at all. You said you trust me. So, tell me, Carla. Would I tell you a fairy tale?”

Carla bit the corner of her lip, then tossed her hand up at the waitress walking by.

“Yes, ma’am,” the server said, attending to Carla’s request.

“Do you have anything stronger than this cocoa?”

“Stronger as in alcohol?”

“Maybe a bit of tequila.”

“Sure, we can add a shot into another cup of your hot cocoa for an extra spicy brew. Would you like that?”

Her eyes fluttered to Jacob. “I would.”

And God knew she needed it.

Chapter Seven

The waitress retrieved her glass. “I’ll be right back with your order.” She glanced at Jacob. “Anything for you, sir?”

“No, thank you.”