Page 133 of By His Rule

A bitter laugh dances on the tip of my tongue, but I swallow it.

I already know what conclusion they’re going to come to.

I’m not worthy. Nowhere even close.

“I don’t want that. I’m no one.”

The need to escape my own thoughts becomes too much and I reach for my purse, grabbing my cell again and hating that my nose itches with emotion.I almost groan when I find more of the same messages waiting for me.

Lock it down, Lorelei.

You’re working.

Be professional.

But that’s all shot to shit when Kian reaches out and tucks two fingers beneath my chin, giving me little choice but to turn to look at him.

His concerned dark green eyes lock on mine, searching for a few seconds as if he’ll find the answers he wants within them.

“You’re someone, Lorelei. Trust me, you’re very much someone.”

My lips part in shock, and his eyes drop to them.

My heart does a little somersault, and my temperature soars.

He wants to kiss you.

Here.

In front of all these people.

He wouldn’t, though.

Would he?

“You two look lonely,” a familiar deep voice sings before the chair beside me is pulled out, allowing a large body to drop into it.

Kian’s fingers instantly drop, leaving me cold and bereft of his touch.

“How are you enjoying your first KC Foundation event, Lori?” Kieran asks with excitement glittering in his eyes.

I may have witnessed him do a shot or two earlier, but that look isn’t from alcohol. It’s from knowing he’s doing something good. It’s pride.

“It’s...a lot.”

He smirks. “So it should be. I planned it.”

“Christ,” Kian mutters.

Kieran leans closer. “Want to know a secret, Lori?”

“No, she doesn’t,” Kian hisses.

“Calm down, Bro. I’m not gonna tell her that I was potty trained before you. Late starter in life, this one,” Kieran adds.

“Fuck’s sake. Don’t listen to a word he says about me.”

“Don’t worry, K. Lori is a smart girl. She knows the truth when she hears it. Anyway, I digress. Do you know the best way to fleece the wealthy out of their money?”

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