Page 3 of Forbidden Love

“You.” The word slips out before I’m able to stop it.

Her zealous lips part and she licks them.

I’ve hit a nerve.

She recovers quickly, her mask slipping back into place. “You don’t even know me.”

“Maybe not.” The sound of my voice drops lower. “But I will.”

The air surges with a thick electric charge and neither of us says anything. We just stand there, eyes locked, a silent battle playing out.

Eventually, she ends the quietness. “What do you really want?”

“I want you to meet me tomorrow.” My tone leaves no room for argument. “Privately. Let’s discuss this without the noise and distraction.”

She hesitates, her gaze fixated on mine. Does she think I’m playing her?

Probably, but I like the challenge.

“Why should I trust you?” Her voice is softer now, almost vulnerable.

“Because you wish to save this land, and I’m giving you a chance to achieve that. But we need to talk, just you and me.”

My way of speaking is safe, but firm and protective.

She bites her lip. She doesn’t look like anyone who would back down, but she’s smart and knows this might be her only shot at making a real difference.

Finally, a heavy sigh emanates from her lips. “Fine. Tomorrow.”

I nod, a sense of satisfaction rolling through me. As I pivot to walk away, her gaze is on my back, so I glance over my shoulder and flash her a subtle, knowing smile. “See you tomorrow at 8 am sharp, Maya.”

She doesn’t respond, just stands there with one hand on the curve of her hip. She can watch me all she wants. Maybe she is thinking about me and what tomorrow might bring. Hope so.

As I stride away, a deep-seated need builds in me. Tomorrow, I’ll have her alone, and we’ll see how far she’s willing to go to save what matters to her.

And she’ll discover how far I’ll go to get what I want.

Chapter 2

Devin

Thenextmorning,Iarrive early at the job site. The sun isn’t even fully up yet, but I don’t care. I’m not here for the sunrise; I’m here for Maya. Last night, I couldn’t stop thinking about the depth of her eyes and the way she stood her ground. I have to figure her out, get her on my side, or at least keep her from standing in my way.

As I check the site, I make sure everything is in place for our meeting. It should be neither too formal nor too casual. I want her to feel at ease, yet understand the gravity of this matter.

I’ve barely settled into the office when my phone buzzes. It’s my assistant. “Miss Lopez is here.”

She showed up.

Satisfaction rolls through me and I smile. “Send her in.”

The door swings open, revealing Maya in a form-fitting tank top and skirt. The tank top is a soft cream color and hugs her ample chest, while the skirt is a simple black that falls just above her knees. Her hair sits up in a neat ponytail, and a few loose strands frame her face. She exudes confidence and allure.

I stand to greet her. “Good morning. Thanks for coming.”

As she enters the room, a faint scent of vanilla and rose wafts in. It’s an intoxicating scent that adds to her aura of confidence.

She delivers a tight smile. “Let’s get this over with.”

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