Page 7 of Twice as Forbidden

He doesn’t react right away. He simply observes me, causing me to fidget nervously in my chair. “My intention wasn’t to hurt your son. It’s just better this way. If you think it’s best for me not to work here, I understand—”

“Did I say anything about firing you?”

“No—”

“I don’t plan on firing you. You’re mine for the next three months. You claim to have all the qualifications for this job? Prove it. I reviewed your transcripts. You’re studying business.”

I nod. “Yes. For now. I’m not sure what I want to do, but it seemed like a good starting point.”

“A business degree provides a strong foundation in market analysis, consumer behavior, and strategic planning—essential skills that not only help you sell effectively but enable you to understand the broader picture of how our company grows and thrives competitively. It’s the foundation for many successful careers.”

I sit up straighter, determination clear in my voice. “That’s what I want. I’m a fast learner. I’ll do anything.”

The moment the words leave my mouth, I realize how they sound. Heat rushes to my face as his gaze sharpens, dark amusement flickering in his eyes.

“I mean—”

His lips curve slightly, his stare holding mine with an intensity that sends a shiver down my spine. “You’re a people pleaser,” he muses, voice smooth as silk. “I do enjoy a compliant employee. Tell me, Georgia… is that what you’d be?”

Desire floods my core, and I cross my legs to ease the tension. Part of me wants to confess I’m willing to comply with anything he demands. It’s inappropriate, but god, the thought of him gliding his tongue over my slit while talking filthy to me… my nipples pebble, and the throb between my legs makes me want to be bold.

Stop this.

“Can you do that for me, Georgia?” he repeats, and I snap out of my haze.

Jesus, Georgia.

“I—yes. I can. Anything you need.”

His smile deepens, like he’s enjoying this little power play far too much. It’s the kind of grin that could convince a saint to sin—and I feel anything but saintly.

“I’m sorry,” I blurt, needing air, space—anything to break the tension coiling between us. “If you’ll excuse me, I need to use the ladies’ room.”

He leans back slightly, nodding as if he’s already won. “Of course. Do what you need to do. Come back refreshed.”

My eyes flick to his, searching for something—some indication that he knows exactly what he’s doing to me.Does he? Can he sense how turned on I am?

The thought of it heats my skin. I quickly stand and smooth my skirt, praying I haven’t left any evidence of my unraveling composure. Tucking my hair behind my ear, I force my legs to move, practically racing out of his office before I do something reckless—like beg him to test how compliant I can be.

Chapter five

Jackson

IstormintoExquisite,Chicago’sexclusive gentlemen’s club. Entry wasn’t granted with a membership card but with reputation. Only the elite—the handpicked few who owned skyscrapers, commanded legacies, or moved the world with a single phone call were allowed past its doors. And once inside, you didn’t just indulge. You belonged.

“Good evening, Mr. Blake. Your usual table?”

I nod, and she escorts me to the back of the club, where all I need is a bottle of bourbon and a girl. Young, brunette, eager to let me destroy her…

“Bring a bottle of Pappy Van Winkle. I want a guest in my lap in fifteen minutes.” That should be enough time to drown myself in the bourbon and erase the image of her from my mind.

I pull at my tie and collapse onto the velour lounge chair. The waitress brings the bottle and sets down a rocks glass, pouring two fingers over a large cube of ice. My fingers twitch as I watch her. “Is there anything else you need—”

“No.” I dismiss her with a wave and shoot the amber liquid back in one smooth motion. I don’t know who that was today. It certainly wasn’t me. Itshouldn’thave been me. That little girl was tempting me. Did she know how easily she was making me break? Those creamy thighs taunted me. And her lips? Fuck…

I pour myself another glass, and it’s gone just as fast.

Is Noah behind this? Is he setting me up, testing to see if I take the bait?

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