Page 42 of Stolen Kisses

"Because I want you."

That was it. I'd said it out loud.

She gasped audibly. "Chase, no. Don’t say that. Now I won’t be able tounhearit.”

“I see. Coupled with those dance moves you can’t unsee—”

“I can’t believe you’re bringing that up.”

“Forget what I said, Hannah. It was completely out of line. I've had a few sips of whiskey."

"Oh, I see. So that's the alcohol talking?"

"No, it's the truth. I'm just better at hiding it when I'm sober. Alcohol loosens my tongue."

"Chase, I don't think this would... I mean, even if I didn't take the job." She jumbled her words. I had no clue if she didn't know what to say or if she simply didn't want to say it, but I saved her the effort.

"I know," I agreed.

"So, why did you call?"

"Because I realized you're probably the only one who'd understand why I even want to buy the store."

"Why did they divorce?"

I sighed. "They always claim they didn't have a reason. They just couldn't work it out. They fought all the time. As a kid, I thought that was normal. I remember spending the night at a friend's house once and being completely bewildered that his parents weren't fighting. I was shocked. But after they divorced, they were remarkably calmer. Clearly it was the right step for them.”

“Do they get together often nowadays?”

“More than before. They do lots of activities with Jeremy. But I know the store meant a lot to them both. I’m wondering if they’d find a way to work together again or not. But the first step is buying it. Don’t tell anyone about it, by the way.”

“I’ll keep your secret.”

I hesitated before admitting, “You know, talking to people doesn’t come easily to me. But it’s different with you.”

“I’m honored. But... I want to take the job, Chase." She said my name in a low whisper. Her voice went straight to my cock even though she wasn't saying anything dirty. But hearing her say my name was driving me crazy.

Fucking hell.How was I going to do any better at the office? But there were ways to avoid her. I didn't spend much time with brokers anyway, so there really was no reason we would be together.

"I know," I replied.

"I mean, I can keep applying to other jobs, but I'd really like to start this one."

"Forget I said that, Hannah. This is the perfect job for you, and you will be an asset to the company. I won't be a problem."

"Oh really?" Her voice was teasing.

"You have my word. You’ll barely see me."

"Maybe that’ll work." She was still teasing. "Out of sight, out of mind, right?"

The second she said it, I knew nothing could be further from the truth. I was thinking about her constantly. It didn't matter if she was around me or not. But I could rein myself in. I was an expert at self-control. She needed a job. I wasn't an asshole. I could make this work.

I thought hard, searching for a safe topic to discuss.

"So, do you see any potential issues with the contract?" I asked finally.

"No, not really. I'm not sure why I was hesitating. Maybe because...."

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