Page 7 of Ten Day Affair

I grin. “One hell of an introduction. Sorry, again, about interrupting your night.”

“You’re lucky I wasn’t still in scrubs.”

She's right about that.

I laugh under my breath, nod toward her glass. “I really should let you get back to your wine.”

I don’t move. Neither does she.

Her gaze holds mine, something softer flickering there. “I’d rather not drink alone, if I’m being honest. Stay, if you want.”

“Just for a minute,” I say. “I’m good on the wine, but thanks. I’d love to get to know my new neighbor.”

She tips her head, one brow arched. “Alright, let’s get to know each other, then."

"Hi, I'm Cole Houston," I say, offering my hand.

"You already said that."

"I just thought it best to start with a clean slate."

She smiles and nods her head as she takes a sip of wine.

"So, you’re on the board at my hospital, you own a beach house you’ve never stepped foot in, and you accidentally wandered onto my deck. What else should I know about you, Cole?”

“Well, I live in New York, most of the time. I bought the house as an investment. I'm in real estate, so call it an occupational hazard. I’m only in town for a few days, so I’ll need to learn the layout around here fast. Wouldn’twant to accidentally stumble onto any more private patios.”

She gives me a look, her nose scrunching like she’s trying not to smile. “I’ve lived here for over a year, and the only person I’ve ever seen near that house is your housekeeper. And lately, a few contractors. Do you keep expensive houses on the beach all over the country just to employ the locals?”

“A year?” I step in closer. Just enough to test the air between us. She doesn’t move except to shiver slightly.

I reach out, slowly, and run my hand down the length of her arm. Her skin is warm beneath the cool slide of silk. It’s soothing under my palm. Still, she doesn’t pull away.

"Yep, pretty much."

“I like your taste in houses.”

I glance back toward the house, then at her, and let it land.

She laughs, low and unbothered. “Looks like we have similar tastes.”

She pokes a finger into my chest, and it's like a jolt of electricity emanates from her point of contact.

“And don’t think I’m wooed that you’re a fancy real estate developer or because you’re a board member at the hospital where I work. I don’t impress easily.”

“Oh? Men in suits aren’t your thing?” I say, my voice growing husky as her finger starts to trail down my torso. Her breathing changes into shallow bursts.

She looks up at me through thick lashes. There’s heat in her eyes now, no doubt about it. “Maybe they are.”

She shrugs, and the robe slips down her arms, dropping to the floor in a pool of silk.

My breath catches, but I don’t move. Not yet. Holy shit, this is happening.

The silk camisole and matching shorts left behind clingto her. The fabric is sheer in the moonlight. Her top barely masks the tight peaks of her nipples.

I reach for her slowly, putting my hands on her waist. I let them settle there for a moment, waiting for silent permission before sliding upward, dragging the thin material with them.

“Then let me impress you,” I murmur.