Page 53 of The Revenge Agenda

“It’s not.” He cocks his head. “We’re arm wrestling.”

It’s hard to tell if this is one of those times he’s being literal or if he’s fucking with me. The only thing that gives him away is the slightest curl to the corner of his mouth. He sets his elbow on the table, stare on his hand, and while this feels stupid and juvenile, I might as well play along.

“Fine.” I prop my arm up and wrap my hand around his. “On three?”

“Wait. Are we going to put a wager on it?”

“A wager?”

“Yes. I think there should be some kind of reward for the winner.”

“I thought your reward was proving to me how strong you are.” I smirk. “Now you’re begging to spoil me.”

“Getting ahead of yourself, aren’t you?”

Little does Rush know, I’m confident. My suits might cover most of it, but I’ve always looked after myself, and since moving into the hotels, I have an easily accessible gym I get to use every morning.

Rush’s biceps might look tasty as hell, but they’ve got nothing on mine.

But what do I want to win?

“So what do you want?” he asks, echoing my thoughts.

My gaze slides over his face and comes to a rest on his mouth. There’s one thing I want. One thing that’s been on my mind since it last happened, but kissing Rush isn’t something I’ll do as the result of a bet. “No idea.”

“If I win, I want you to have custody of P.L. Ant for the entire week.”

My laugh is unexpected. “That’s what you want?”

“It will make me feel appreciated.” He pouts.

“You are so full of shit.”

This time, it’s Rush’s turn to laugh, but before we can start, his message tone goes off.

The amusement dies from both our faces as he checks the screen.

“Is it him?” I ask.

“Sure is.” His jaw tightens as he swipes open the phone. He reads out loud. “I know, baby, but all I wanted was a chance to explain.”

After how cold Ian was to me, I can’t say it doesn’t hurt to hear his kindness toward Rush. Even if it’s fake.

“What, do you have beer-flavored cum or something?” I mutter darkly.

“Wouldn’t you like to know?” He winks, and while it’s cute and gives me a thrill because, yeah, actually, I would, it doesn’t help to cut through the crappy feelings.

“I think I’m going to need another drink for this.” I stand from the table, but Rush immediately sets his hand over mine.

“Are you upset?”

“Just … frustrated.”

“Should I not have suggested this?”

I flip my hand over to catch his and give it a squeeze before letting go again. “No, it was a good idea. I need somewhere to live, after all, and the thought of getting that and getting him in trouble is amazing. It’s just … harder than I thought.”

“Because you love him?”

---