Page 173 of Awakened by Sin

“He’s handling me just fine.” His energy cloyed the air and made the sweet cream of her dessert taste like dirt. She took a step back. “Well, I better get—”

“Not up to the challenge, Carmen?”

He was baiting her.Again. He thought he could provoke her into a night of angry, dirty sex? “I don’t see a reward worth fighting for,” she said tartly.

He clutched his chest. “Not nice, Carmen.”

“You aren’t either.”

“No, I’m not nice, but you already know that.” He lowered his voice. “Come with me.”

Goose bumps traveled over her skin. “I’m with Marcus.”

“You said you’re friends.”

“Yes. Friends with benefits.”

“Then what does it matter?”

“We’re exclusive … friends,” she said lamely.

Angel raised a brow. “Exclusive friends? He doesn’t even have the balls to claim you for himself? Why are you wasting your time?”

She went toe to chest with him. “You think every woman wants you because you’re the bad boy? That I would give up what I have so you can do me dirty and leave me when you’re bored?”

“What makes you think I’d get bored?”

“Because I’m a hunter too,” she said quietly. “I understand the chase and the disappointment when it’s over.”

“Then why are you with Fletcher?”

“Because he’s the unattainable.” Marcus didn’t give himself freely, and because of that, he was a prize. He was too good for the likes of her, but she would steep herself in him as long as he allowed it.

“You’re taking the safe route.” His eyes roved over her face. “How disappointing. We could have helped each other out.”

“I’m getting mine. And I’m sure you have a plethora of volunteers to do whatever you want in bed.”

“Yes, I’ve made my way through some of the best-looking women the town has to offer. A good selection.” His eyes slid down her body. “But not quite what I’m looking for. He won’t be able to give you what you need. You know that, right?”

“He already is.”

“For now,” Angel allowed.“But your need for more will come back, and when it does, he won’t be able to satisfy you. Wild doesn’t go away, Carmen. You’re with a guy who’s more focused on business than you.”

“Marcus is responsible for thousands of jobs and billions in revenue.”

Angel shook his head. “You think you’re safe because you’re with him, but you can still get burned.”

“What are you talking about?” She saw movement over his shoulder and spotted Marcus watching them. “My ride’s here.”

“When you’re ready, you know where I live.”

His words drifted to her as she walked toward Marcus.

“Everything all right?” Marcus asked, but his gaze wasn’t on her.

“Yes, are you hungry?”

“Lyla made me something to take home.”

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