Page 37 of For the Sub

“I’m good enough that I would have found something,” she responded with appealing confidence.

“Good.” He continued on.

Intriguingly, she had copies of each page of his website, followed by pieces of paper with hand-drawn designs on them. The basic message was the same, but the look was more modern, fresh. Even his logo had been tweaked. “Impressive.”

“So is the number of businesses that you’re involved with.”

All of which had been carefully catalogued by her.

“Anyway, your website needs to be refreshed. Your copyright is out of date and your SEO could use some fine-tuning. You’ve got a few broken links. And…” She raked her hair back from her forehead. “I’m boring you.”

“Not at all.” In fact, the animation in her tone was infectious.

“I was going to give you some ideas to take to your web people. Sorry if I overstepped any bounds. Occupational hazard.”

“Once you’re finished, I’ll be interested in taking a look.” He put down the folder, appreciating both her resourcefulness and fresh eye.

“You’re not offended at all? Even by me delving into your personal life?”

He closed the distance between them to capture her chin. “Not in the least. I don’t want any woman taking risks with her safety. Especially you.”

As he turned to leave the room, he noticed the wall behind her was decorated with pictures of dogs and cats. One had a photo of her with an older gentleman. They stood with their backs to a mountain, and they were each holding a trout. “Your father?”

She nodded. “Two summers ago, near Shadow Mountain Lake.”

“There’s a strong resemblance.”

“Especially the nose,” she said, wrinkling hers.

“Nothing wrong with your nose.”

“I’m delighted that you’re blinded by lust, Sir.”

When she walked past him, he smacked her ass.

Yelping, she turned back to face him, almost spilling her drink.

“None of that bullshit,” he warned. “Every time you say something self-critical, you’ll earn a punishment.”

“But—”

“Don’t push me.” His voice was very near a growl.

She opened her mouth to speak.

“I fucking mean it.”

Bravely, she continued to stare at him.

“Want to try me?” he challenged.

Chapter Six

A few minutes ago, she’d had a taste of what happened when she accepted that risk. “If people walk in and see you getting your ass blazed—again—I won’t be concerned. And you can tell them why I’m doing it.”

“You’re awful, Sir.”

“You’re pushing your luck,” he countered.

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