Page 88 of Surviving Love

“We?”

I glanced up at him. “Yeah, aren’t we working together for now?”

He nodded slowly. “I didn’t know if you’d just want to work with him now.”

I narrowed my eyes. “I’ve said all alongweshould try and work with Larry after the merge.”

He lifted one shoulder. “I thought maybe you had a mouse in your pocket.”

I laughed. “Right. Well, I don’t. I want to still work with you… unless you’ve made other plans?”

“I haven’t.” His pupils were dilated, as if the sparkling wine was affecting him. “You’re the only one I’m loyal to at the moment.”

“I like how you qualify that.”

Jack leaned into me, his arm pressing mine. “You’re really the only person I trulylikein this game.”

I smiled. “Right. I’m gullible but notthatgullible.”

A line appeared between his brows. “What does that mean?”

I gulped some champagne and then sighed, enjoying the tipsy warmth spreading through me. “You’re charming. You have a way of making people feel like they’re the only thing you’re focused on. When in truth, you’re focused on the game.”

“Iamfocused on the game,” he said softly. “But I’m also focused on you. Not everyone, just you.”

“Oh, boy. You’re laying it on thick.” Despite my words, excitement swirled inside of me. I reminded myself, though, that Jack was playing the game. He knew I had a weak spot for him, and he was trying to exploit that.

“You seriously don’t know I’m into you?”

“I’m not sure what’s real and what isn’t,” I admitted.

“We should get out of here later. I’ll clarify things for you.”

My pulse spiked at the look in his eyes, but I shook my head. “I don’t think that’s a good idea.”

“Why not?”

I swallowed hard. “Because it just isn’t.”

His lips curved in a seductive smile. “I think it’s a great idea.”

I couldn’t help but laugh. “Of course you do.”

He glanced around and then said softly, “Were you aware they have condoms and lube available to the contestants in the medical box?”

A hot flush went through me. “Jesus, Jack, be quiet.”

“Why?”

“You’re just drunk.”

“I’m notjustdrunk.” He laughed.

I grumbled, “You’re such a flirt.”

He took a bite of potato salad, but his eyes never left me. Once he’d swallowed, he said, “I don’t get why you’re acting all surprised. I’ve made it very clear I want to have you for real one of these days.”

“Well,” I sputtered. “Today isn’t that day.”