Page 87 of Wired Justice

“Anyone who can use a satellite as his personal nanny cam and lacks the scruples to abide by the law could be dangerous to you, or others.” Jake’s eyes had gone flinty and his jaw was hard as he propped himself on an elbow.

“I can’t talk about this man. I’m sorry, Jake. But trust me when I tell you—I have no romantic interest in him,” Sophie said forcefully.

“You’ve got no romantic interest in me, either, it seems.” Jake rolled on his back and stared at the ceiling. “You must like guys with helicopters, then. All I’m saying.”

“Are you pouting? Is that what you’re doing when your mouth droops like that?”

Jake laughed. She’d come to love that—Jake was never discouraged or downcast long, and his unsinkability was a tonic for her depressive struggles.

“Fine. I was pouting.” Jake sat up. He gave her exaggerated bedroom eyes, fluttering his lashes, and peeled his shirt off over his head, tossing it across the room. He flexed his arms and tightened his abs, striking a pose. “Now I’ll just have to rely on my looks and charm to wear you down. Come over here and snuggle with all of this. Platonically. Until you’re ready to be my girl and have it all for yourself.”

Sophie groaned. “No, thanks. You are beefcake—I understand that word now—and I’m a hungry woman. I’d better go to my own room so I can respect your terms.” She walked to the connecting door. Ginger rose and joined her, and Sophie looked back at Jake. “I wish I were ready to be your girl.”

“Me too. Now get out of here so I can take a cold shower,” Jake grumbled, and threw his pillow at her.