Page 32 of Pandora's Pleasure

“There must be something you or your dad can do?”

He nudged me back against the wall, placing his hands on either side of my head to cage me in. “It’s hopeless. You and your family can sink back into whatever oil spill you all crawled out of.”

“Do you have any idea who you’re talking to?” God, I was becoming brave.

“You won’t let me forget.”

“Do you want me to announce our breakup?” I said bitterly.

“Not until after the election.” His mouth hovered near mine.

He was going to damn well kiss me—that’s what was happening here. His gaze dropped to my lips, which gave me hope. There was still something between us. Maybe I could find a way to get through to him.

“I’m asking for your help,” I said softly. “My father’s a good man.”

His lips dared to brush mine, causing a shudder to run through me.

“You’re just doing his bidding.” He straightened, moving away from me abruptly as though coming to his senses.

“I admit, Daddy may have asked me to speak with you—”

“Exactly, Pandora. This isn’t about you and me. It’s about politics. It’s about what I can do for you.”

“Please don’t say that.”

“Want the truth?” He stepped closer, leaning over me once again. “You and I have completed our mission.”

This time, he really is going to kiss me. Kiss me for the first time…

But he only turned away and said, “Do what you do best.”

“What’s that?”

“Look pretty.”

“There’s more to me than just looks.”

“Not one thing I’ve seen or heard from you suggests you care about anyone but yourself.”

“I’ve wanted to do so many things, but my parents—”

“What have you ever done for someone else?”

“I’m here for my family, aren’t I? Talking with the most monstrous man in the room.”

The smile he gave me didn’t reach his eyes. His expression told me he felt he’d made his point.

Tears sprang to my eyes. “I did everything you asked of me.”

“You’re merely a pawn in the game. Your father’s moves have knocked you off the board.” He straightened his jacket. “Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a campaign to win formyfather.”

“What about what happened in your loft?” I inhaled sharply. “Did any of our time together mean anything to you?”

I felt lightheaded just remembering how he’d touched methere. He was the first man I’d ever been with in that way—and I’d foolishly let myself fall for this playboy.

He hesitated with his hand on the handle, ready to pull the door open, his expression taut as he said, “I remember you saying you wanted your freedom…”

“Please, don’t go like this,” I pleaded.