Page 71 of The Lieutenant

“If you say so.” My kitten was now far too complacent in her actions, but I was completely in tune to her mood swings. She could strike at any moment with pointed questions or another attempt at escaping. I found it interesting she continued to come back, a fearful bird needing her flock.

Or her master.

The thought kept a smile on my face as I motioned for the young bartender who’d brought me the news of her appearance.

“Yes, sir? What can I get for you?”

“Whatever my guest was having before and whiskey for me.”

“Whiskey. A surprise. I’ll have one of those as well. Somehow, I think I’ll need the stronger encouragement tonight.” She tipped her head, eyeing me as a snake would do just before a fatal strike. The woman pulled no punches, even if she had no idea she was in over her head.

“Coming right up.”

I leaned against the bar, surveying the dance floor. “I can see your wheels turning.”

“Always. The nature of a journalist.”

“I can imagine.”

“I’m curious, Havros. Do you dance?”

Her question caused me to laugh. “Rarely. Is that something you enjoy?”

“Always, but it’s been a very long time since I’ve done so.” She seemed nervous, more so than before.

“Perhaps we’ll need to change that. Your trip shouldn’t always be about work.”

“That’s what I’m used to.”

“I’m sure, but you’d be lying if you told me this is all about money or winning an award.”

“You’ve already discovered I’ve won several. They were thrilling in the beginning. I was proud of my accomplishments.”

“And now?” The drinks were brought and I grabbed my glass immediately. Sparring with her was more exhausting than I was used to. The yin and yang of our relationship was exciting, but unpredictable. That was something I could barely tolerate.

Kara shrugged and pulled the glass to her lips. “Very little thrills me any longer.”

“Perhaps because you haven’t found what you’re looking for.”

“You truly believe you know me.”

“Yes, because you reveal yourself to me in many ways. Come. I’ll show you the executive offices.”

“Why do you have any here? You have an entire floor in a glorious building devoted to your family’s corporation. I would think others wouldn’t be needed.”

I guided her through the crowd, keeping my hand on the small of her back.

“Unless the business you handle inside your clubs isn’t considered moral or legal.”

“I do love how you try and bait me.” I laughed and pressed my fingers on the keypad of the private elevator.

“Is that what I’m doing?” She didn’t fight when I gently pushed her inside, but moved to the back wall, hugging against it. Her fingers were tightly wrapped around the glass.

“Yes, you are.” I pressed my hand on the elevator wall next to her, enjoying the fabulous view. “What are you hiding, kitten?”

“I have nothing to hide.”

“So you say.” The elevator doors opened and I moved to the side, motioning for her to go in front of me. My cock twitched the moment she tossed back her head, running her fingers through her long curls. She looked fabulous tonight, the dress hugging every curve as if made exclusively for her.

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