Page 10 of We're One

“You do realize that not taking no for an answer is stalking,” I say, pointedly looking down at where his fingers grip my arm. He quickly releases his grip, but doesn’t move back. His gaze narrows the smallest bit.

“I’ve never had to stalk a woman in my life,” he says, his voice now defensive.

“Well, you’re doing it now. Just because you’re my client doesn’t mean I’m obligated to spend time with you outside of work.”

I expect him to get angry, but instead he shocks me as he throws his head back and laughs. He looks me straight in the eyes, his gaze now holding me captive instead of his beautiful hands. There’s a glint of determination in his eyes, a flash of something that sends a thrill coursing through me. Dammit. I will not be swayed.

“Enjoy dancing, Sia,” he says, then turns and walks away. I let out a relieved sigh and ignore the tiny spark of disappointment that he’s given up. I can’t say what’s wrong with me right now.

“What in the heck was that?” Nikki asks, instantly appearing at my side.

“Zach.” I don’t need to add another word.

She lets out a low whistle. “Damn, that man is hot.”

“You’re not helping.”

“Well, I need to cool down after that exchange. I wasn’t sure if I needed to step in and help you or call the fire department to hose you both down. Steam was rising.”

I roll my eyes and go back to our table. I need another drink, maybe ten of them. We should leave immediately. That’s what I’d do if I were smarter. But I’m not letting the man chase me away. He’s already taken far too much of my time in thoughts alone. I won’t give him the power of intimidating me now.

Nikki and I have another drink, dance a few more songs, then drink a bit more. We’re mixing water in between our alcohol so we aren’t sloshed by any means. We’ve learned that life lesson already and neither of us enjoy hangovers. We also don’t want to become so inebriated we can’t protect ourselves. At home we can do what we want, but in public we’re cautious.

At least an hour passes before that same shiver as before travels down my spine. I turn and see Zach once again. He leans against the table, and I glance at Nikki who’s looking at him with awe. I’m sure he’s far more used to her reaction than the cold shoulder I’ve been desperately trying to give him.

“Want to dance?” he asks, confidence once again oozing out of him.

“That would be a definite no,” I say, giving him my most sugary sweet smile. I hate that I’m somewhat happy he’s back. I’ll never understand myself. I don’t want to crush on this man, and I don’t want to fight feelings for him while I’m doing my job, but already I want him to be here. It’s not safe or smart. Maybe it’s simply that I want to have a man want me so much he’s not willing to give up. It will take me a while to figure out my own mind, and I might have to accept that it will never happen.

He turns to Nikki, and for a brief moment I’m terrified he’s going to go after her. She won’t accept. We’d never do that to each other, but it will still crush me if he can so easily replace me with my adorable best friend.

“What will it take to get your friend to dance with me?” he asks.

Nikki beams at him. “I don’t think it will happen. She doesn’t date very often, and when she does, it’s never with players,” she tells him while batting her eyes.

“How about I buy you a drink and you can help me break down her walls?”

I wait for Nikki to give him a definite no. Her grin widens. “We’re both drinking Lemon Drops,” she says. My mouth falls open at my traitorous best friend. Zach nods at her and heads to the bar.

“I can’t believe you just did that.”

“Hey, drinks are expensive here. I’m not turning down free ones.”

“What if he drugs our drinks?” I pout.

She laughs. “Really, Sia, you think that’s going to happen?”

“No, but I’m trying to drive him away.”

She gives me a long look. “I don’t think you are, but don’t worry, the best friend code is firmly in place. I won’t share anything too intimate.” She winks at me; I glare at her.

“You’re reading into nothing.”

She laughs again. “That man wants you bad, and you’re not completely opposed to it. A best friend knows these things. It’s not lust in your gaze as your staring at him while trying to pretend he doesn’t exist.”

“I am too,” I say, sounding like a petulant five-year-old.

Zach returns surprisingly fast. I shouldn’t be too shocked. This man isn’t a person who ever has to wait for anything. Life comes easy to him while Nikki and I have to struggle for everything we achieve. I might be a bit jealous that some have it so much easier than others.

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