Page 14 of Hunt Me

“Your charm?” She tilts her head, studying me. “Is that what this is?”

“Usually works.”

“On whom? The socialites who giggle at everything you say?” She gestures toward a group of women across the room who’ve been shooting glances our way. “They’re not exactly a high bar.”

I laugh—can’t help it. “Ouch.”

“Truth hurts.”

“So does your complete indifference to my sparkling personality.” I lean closer, dropping my voice. “Most women find me irresistible.”

“Most women have low standards.”

“Christ.” I press a hand to my chest in mock pain. “You’re brutal.”

“I’m honest.” She finishes her champagne, setting the empty glass on a passing waiter’s tray with fluid grace. “There’s a difference.”

“Honesty wrapped in daggers is still brutal.”

“Would you prefer I pretend to be impressed?” Her eyes meet mine, direct and unflinching. “Bat my eyelashes and ask about your car?”

“I drive a Tesla.”

“How very predictable.”

“It’s practical?—”

“It’s what every tech bro in Boston drives.” She smooths an invisible wrinkle from her dress. “Let me guess. Black. Upgraded autopilot. Custom sound system.”

She’s not wrong. Heat crawls up my neck.

“The sound system came with it.”

“Sure it did.” That almost-smile appears again. “What else? You probably have one of those ridiculous gaming chairs in your office. RGB lighting everywhere. Three monitors minimum.”

“Six monitors.”

“Of course.” She shakes her head. “Do you also have a mini fridge stocked with energy drinks and a concerning lack of real food?”

“Red Bull is a vitamin.”

“Red Bull is liquid regret.”

I grin despite myself. She’s sharp. Quick.

“You’ve known me ten minutes and already have my entire setup mapped out.”

“You’re not as complicated as you think.” She steps back, creating distance again. “None of you are.”

“Us?”

“Men like you. Smart enough to be dangerous, cocky enough to think you’re invincible.” Her gaze sweeps over me, clinical. “I’ve met a dozen versions of you.”

“Bet none of them were this good-looking.”

She laughs. “There it is.”

“There what is?”