Page 17 of Stuffed

Professional interest. Can't have my potential investment freezing to death before I see those raw numbers.

Me

Just the numbers you're interested in seeing?

I hold my breath after hitting send, wondering if I've pushed too far. The typing bubbles appear and disappear several times.

Zane

Careful, troublemaker. Some questions are better asked in person.

"Oh my God," I whisper to my empty bedroom, hugging my phone to my chest like a teenager. I'm about to respond when another text comes through.

Zane

Wear your hair up tomorrow. I like seeing your neck when you're talking numbers.

Heat floods my body. Two can play at this game.

Me

Noted. Anything else you'd like to see?

Zane

Many things. None of them appropriate for text.

Me

Since when are you appropriate?

Zane

Since I'm trying very hard not to drive over there right now.

My hands actually shake as I type.

Me

What's stopping you?

The response takes longer this time.

Zane

The knowledge that once I start, I won't be able to stop. And you deserve better than a late-night impulse.

Me

What if I don't want better? What if I just want you?

Zane

Jesus, Tessa. You can't say things like that to me.

Me

Why not?

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