Page 119 of The Price of Scandal

“For the future,” he said, stroking his quick, talented hands down my back to cup my ass.

“Derek Price is not discussing the future,” I argued.

“Ah, sweet, stubborn Emily. You haven’t come to terms with it yet.” His voice was a caress, and I had trouble remembering why I’d been so furious only moments ago.

“Come to terms with what?” I asked. My heart rate sped up again, but this time it had nothing to do with temper.

“You’re my match, love. Things will never be dull or normal. But I promise you that adventure you deserve.”

“You can’t be serious, Derek. We had sex. We didn’t pledge our undying love to each other!” I felt the licks of panic in my intestinal region. “You know I don’t have time.”

“That’s not an ‘I don’t like you because you’re a hideous beast who makes me want to vomit,’” he pointed out. He brushed my hair back from my forehead.

“We already discussed the ‘we aren’t willing to make time for a relationship’ agenda item,” I reminded him, feeling breathless.

His gaze penetrated me, shooting daggers into my heart. “I will accept whatever you’re willing to give. That’s what you mean to me.”

“Are you drunk?” I demanded.

“Are you scared?” he retorted.

Yes!My intestines were tying themselves in knots, and I wasn’t keen on the idea of not having access to a private restroom.

“I’m not scared,” I lied. “I’m appalled. We had one weekend together, and you’re changing everything.”

“This weekend changed everything,” he corrected. “I’m just trying to keep up. Tell me you don’t want more. Tell me you don’t want more nights like last. Tell me you don’t want more dinners with a man who not just tolerates your drive but worships it.”

“You’re spinning me,” I accused.

He didn’t even look guilty. “I’m painting a picture. I want more of you, Emily. Let me earn you.”

My digestive system let out a mournful gurgle.

“Are you hungry?” he asked, amused.

“Not exactly,” I said evasively.

“Are you still angry?”

We were standing in the middle of his glass-walled office wrapped around each other in full view of Jane and the entire Alpha Group staff.

“Not exactly.”

“I know how difficult it is for you to trust,” he said quietly. “I don’t take that lightly. This was an honest mistake, and I’m sincerely sorry.”

“So I get a veto?”

His smile was lethal. “Not on your life, love. This is the whipped cream and cherry on top of a full week of positive press. I’m afraid you’re going to have to kiss your dreams of owning half my firm goodbye.”

Derek traced his fingertips down the line of my jaw.

“We’ll see about that,” I said lightly. The tide turned quickly, and who knew what an all-access interview would do? It could instigate a tsunami. “You’re awfully confident that the real me is likable.”

“You’re more than likable, darling. You’re admirable. Formidable. Fascinating. Real.”

“I’m afraid.” Admitting it out loud made some of the weight on my chest lighten.

“Of what?” he asked gently.