Page 26 of From the Moment We Met

“Just perfect,” Lilly muttered under her breath, swinging open the door. Jacob stood on the other side, and Lilly felt her pulse quicken. Damn her body’s reaction to this insufferable man! “Mr. Edmonton, what can I do for you?”

Jacob shifted his weight, and if Lilly didn’t know better, she would swear he was nervous. “If I apologize for being a total ass the other day, will you stop calling me Mr. Edmonton?”

Lilly laughed in spite of herself. “I might be able to accommodate that request, depending on the strength of the apology.”

Jacob smiled, and Lilly’s stomach flipped with how it lit up his face. “I’m fully committed to groveling.”

“Always up for a good grovel, come in.” Lilly stepped aside, allowing him access to her office. “Have a seat.” She was aware of his lingering gaze on her legs and tugged at her skirt in a futile attempt to provide more coverage.

Jacob handed her a tea, which she gratefully accepted.

“One caveat.”

Lilly raised her eyebrows. This should be interesting. “Caveat to what?”

Jacob’s eyes darkened as he leaned forward, his arms resting on his knees. “The apology.”

Great, here it comes. Lilly shook her head and closed her eyes, mentally preparing for another round with the A-list actor.

“I won’t apologize for kissing you.”

Lilly’s breath caught, her palms sweaty. “Really?”

Jacob shot her a hooded look, his fingers tracing up her arm. “All I want is to do it again.”

She could melt or play hard to get, and Lilly wasn’t known for melting. “Does every woman fall at your feet when you say something like that?”

Jacob sputtered his tea, obviously not expecting that response, and earning a giggle from Lilly. “Clearly, you aren’t one of those women.”

Lilly’s smile widened. “Clearly.”

For the first time since their introduction, Lilly saw something new flash in Jacob’s eyes—admiration. “Do you think we might call a truce?”

“Whatever for? I’m having too much fun with this banter to be nice to you.”

Their gaze met and held, both trying to hold back their laughter. Eventually, it won, and they busted forth together.

“I can honestly say you are unlike any woman I’ve ever met, Lilly.”

“I don’t know if that’s a good thing or a terrible thing.”

He leaned forward again, grasping her hand. “I’ve known scads of women, but you have turned me on my head.”

Lilly chewed her bottom lip, aware of his marked gaze, still uncertain as to the meaning of his statement. She couldn’t tell if he was crazy about her or insane from being around her, and she wasn’t sure which option was more dangerous. “Still a mystery.”

“Let me clarify. You’re an amazing woman, Lilly. Absolutely, exquisitely amazing.”

Lilly’s heart was in her throat; she was so screwed. He appeared to mean every word. Fuck, it’s hot in here. Lilly tucked her hair behind her ear, an uncertain smile crossing her lips. “Let’s get back to the point. What can I do for you, Jacob?”

He seemed to pick up on her discomfort and thankfully, changed topics, thrusting a box at her. “These are for you.”

Lilly's nostrils were hit with the heady chocolate aroma upon opening the package. “Brownies. They look delicious, but I can’t eat them. Thank you anyway, though.”

“You can, they’re gluten-free. I made them myself.”

Lilly almost dropped the box at Jacob's words. “You…made them for me?”

“I am capable of being a nice guy.”

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