Page 78 of Bishop

“Since I became fortunate enough to have the finances to fund a no-bullshit policy.”

She places her bowl in the sink while I hang back near the fridge, waiting for her to move so there’s no risk of her breeching my personal space. “Be more specific. Are we talking in months or years?”

I shrug. “Your uncle has always paid well.”

“And I guess your skill set doesn’t come cheap.” She steps in my direction.

I jerk out of the way, maybe a little too fast because she shoots me a questioning glance before pulling the bottle of wine from the fridge to fill her glass.

“So I’m assuming you’ve spent a long time reaching third base with sex workers.” She closes the fridge and turns to me. “Don’t you crave more?”

“What’s with all the questions?”

“I’m curious. Your choices are interesting.”

No. She thinks I’m a puzzle in need of completion. Fuck that shit. I’m nobody’s mystery to solve.

“If you’ve done the same thing for a decade,” she continues, “I’d also assume you have regulars, right?”

“Do you mind moving your ass away from the fridge so I can get myself a beer?”

Her eyes flash as she gives a sinful smile. “Are you scared to get close to me, Bishop?”

“Excuse me?”

“You need me to move? You stepped away when I came within two feet. And you’ve barely looked at me since you woke up.”

“No, belladonna. I’m not scared.”

She steps closer.

I fucking stiffen.

She raises a brow in victory.

Jesus Christ.

I laugh it off. I have to. Otherwise my dick will tap into this game, then she’ll end up getting an insider’s guide to my sex life. “You’ve taken me to the floor once before, Abri. It’s only natural I prepare for another attack.”

“Mmm.” She nods, her eyes on mine as she takes another sip of wine. “But I don’t think you’re worried about me taking you to the floor. My guess is that you’re concerned I’ll take you to my bed.”

“Don’t flatter yourself.”

“Then what is it?”

“Manners,” I growl. “I’m trying to stay out of your space.”

She takes a step closer. “You didn’t care about manners when you walked in here earlier, trying to remind me of your job.”

“I’ve since learned the error of my ways.”

“Hmm.” She takes another casual sip, her gaze taunting mine. “So tell me, Bishop, do you get to know these regulars? Is there any emotional connection? Do you like them?”

“No,” I grate

“Do you kiss them?” She creeps closer.

“No.” I fight against the instinct to back away, my dick thrumming on a hair trigger.

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