Page 16 of Possess

Her breath caught in her throat. He was apologizing to her? Men, in her experience, didn’t apologize. “I’m sorry I yelled.”

“I’m glad you did.” He tugged her closer until she was bending over. “It showed me you care.” He brushed a light kiss over her lips.

Allyson froze, but she didn’t have to worry. Zeke backed off and let go of her hands. She instantly missed the feel of his skin against hers. She shook her head. They were supposed to keep their relationship professional.

“Go back to your seat, please.” His voice was tense.

She tilted her head and stared at him.

“Don’t make me beg, Allyson. I’m holding on by a thread here.” He shifted in his chair, and her gaze caught how the fabric of his pants was strained around his crotch.

“Oh.” Heat filled her body as she dug for something—anything—to distract them both. “Did the protesters leave?” She hadn’t heard any chants since before the accident.

“Probably. They usually don’t hang around once I send the crew home.” He shifted in his chair. “So…this environmental complaint?”

“I have no clue why it was filed. Your plans show the green space. I didn’t pull the plans from the office, but I will and double-check them. I wanted to check in with you first.”

“Nothing has been changed, and these are the plans I filed.”

“I know.” She wanted him to know she believed him. Zeke was always above board with her. After seeing some of her entries changed in the system, she was beginning to wonder what the heck was going on. “Who was the initial contact on this project?”

“Rudy. Does that make a difference?”

“It shouldn’t.” A knock on the door startled them both.

Zeke stood. “That’s probably the Accident Board.”

“I should go.” She reached for her bag.

“Stay.” Zeke’s voice was soft. “You were here when the accident happened.”

“Let’s see what they say first, and I’ll stay if needed.”

Zeke nodded and opened the door. “Mr. Riggs, Gavin Wilson, Industrial Accident Board.”

“Please come in.”

An older man walked into the trailer. Allyson had already made sure another chair was available for him. “Hi, Allyson.”

“Hi, Gavin. Sometimes this world is small.” Zeke stiffened, and Allyson glanced at him. His features were tight and a flare of jealousy flashed in his eyes.

“You know the IAB guys?” Zeke’s gaze ricocheted from her to Gavin.

“Some of them yes. I met Gavin and his wife last year at one of the city parties, but I wouldn’t say I know him.” The jealous flicker in Zeke’s eyes died out, and he grinned.

“We did have a good chat that night. Were you here when the accident happened?” Gavin asked.

“I was. Do you want me to stay?” Allyson shifted on her feet. Zeke was watching her with those deep brown eyes of his.

“No. I’d rather talk with Mr. Riggs first. I know where to find you, if I need to speak with you.”

“Okay.” She reached down and picked up her bag and hard hat.

“I’ll be right back. I need to escort Ms. Young to her vehicle.” Zeke pushed open the door for her. “The plans are on the table, and the accident site hasn’t been touched.”

“Thank you. See you later, Allyson,” Gavin said.

“Bye, Gavin.” She moved outside with Zeke right behind her. “You don’t have to walk me to my truck.”

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