Page 37 of Dangerous Pursuit

“Yep. All clear.”Holy shit. Is it boiling in here, or is it just me?

“Your blushing is adorable. I can’t wait to make you blush with more than just my words.” He runs his finger down my arm, causing goose bumps to rise in its wake.

“I also want you to know that this isn’t just sexual attraction. That did come first, but I hope you were listening earlier when I said you were special. You’re the full package, Mia. You blow me away with your drive, your common sense, and the way you carry yourself so assuredly. I tried to fight my feelings, lying to myself that it was just physical, but it’s so much more. Can we start over so I can prove it and make up for being such a prick?” He’s looking at me expectantly, wanting a response this time.

“Well, you’re making a good case, I’ll give you that. There’s no doubt that the physical attraction is mutual. As far as the other stuff goes, I’d say you’re off to a good start. So, I’m not opposed to the idea. And we’ll definitely have to start over… because it’ll take me a while to forget what a bosshole you are.” I smile up at him and am met with laughter.

“I earned that and more. I promise I won’t be deserving of that title anymore. I’ll even do one better and work toward earning the title of boyfriend if that’s okay with you.”

Swoon.

“You don’t need my permission to work toward it, just my acceptance if it’s earned.” I can’t believe this is the same Jackson as yesterday. If I didn’t know better, I’d think the aliens were back for good.

“Fair enough. I’ll take that as a win for now. Will you stay with me tonight?” He sees my shock. “Not for anything but sleeping… in my arms. I swear I won’t make a move on you.” He gives me the Scout salute, making me giggle. However, I’m not sure if I’m relieved or disappointed.

“I’ll stay, but I need to text Walker and tell him I won’t be there tonight.”

Jackson

When she pulls her phone out and starts texting, I catch sight of the previous message and grin.

“I take it he approves?” I ask as I raise my eyebrows and tilt my head toward her screen. She blushes again, which I’ve now become addicted to seeing.

“Yeah, he’s been on your side since the office incident. He thought it was hot. Then, when you cornered me at poker, he tried to get me to admit I wanted you. And by the way—” She bites her lip and looks down. She’s so fucking sexy, and she doesn’t even know it. “—he’s insisting to meet you before I go to Montana.” Her hesitance is adorable.

“Is that so? And when will this be happening?” I’m glad to hear she has someone in her corner, although I wonder if he’s aware of what’s really going on with her. I’d like to have a private conversation with him, so I’d say his insistence on meeting me works out in my favor.

“On Wednesday. He’s coming to pick me up for my birthday lunch since our previous plan was canceled because of a certain bosshole.”

“Oh really?” I reach over and tickle her, causing her to erupt in laughter. It’s music to my ears. She’s beautiful when she smiles, and my heart feels like it grows larger with each one I earn. She almost manages to escape, but I pull her in tight before she’s out of reach.

As soon as she’s back in my lap, her arms fling around my neck, hugging me tightly. “Thank you for coming to my rescue. I don’t think I said it earlier, and I… I know you don’t want to think about it, but if you didn’t come when you did… I might not be the same person sitting here. So, thank you.”

I squeeze her tighter, knowing how right she is, and start to feel the anger bubbling up again. Before it gets too out of control, I frame her face with my hands, holding it inches from mine. “I won’t let anyone hurt you, I promise you that. I’ll protect you no matter what.” Our lips are so close, and my resistance is wavering. “God, you have no idea how bad I want to kiss you right now.”

“Why don’t you, then?” she challenges me.

“You’re not old enough yet,” I say matter-of-factly, purposefully riling her up. She rolls her eyes, making me grin and plant my lips on the tip of her nose. “But also because I want you to see the real me before I start making moves on you. Let’s take a few days to get to know each other in a new light and see if you’re still interested in kissing me on your birthday. And maybe I’ll even have a surprise for you.” I bring her in and kiss her forehead.

“I don’t like surprises.” She’s cute when she pouts. Tonight, I’m discovering the many sides of Mia.

“I think you’ll like this one.” I scoot out from under her and stand, reaching my hand out. “Are you ready for bed? It’s been a long day for both of us.”

“Bed sounds good—I mean sleep… in the bed.” Her blush is fierce.

“I knew what you meant, Mia. Don’t worry, I’ll keep my hands to myself… mostly,” I say, wagging my brows in her direction while leading her down the hallway.

After escorting her through my bedroom to the master bath, I place a hairbrush, along with a brand-new toothbrush, on the counter.

“I picked up the habit of keeping extras from my parents. Get ready for bed, and I’ll set some clothes out for you.” Squeezing her hand before letting go, I walk out, shutting the door behind me.

To distract myself, I grab two water bottles, place one on each nightstand, and plug my phone in next to the bed.

When she’s finished, we trade places so I can get ready and give her time to change. Usually, I sleep naked, but for Mia’s sake—and mine, I leave my boxers and undershirt on. For now, the more layers between us, the better.

My dick wakes up at the sight of Mia lying in my bed. However, I can’t help but smirk when I notice that she’s stiff as a log with the covers pulled up to her neck. It’s like she’s never been in a man’s bed before. Well, I suppose she hasn’t, only boys’. Or maybe she’s just nervous to be inmybed. Normally, I wouldn’t blame her, but I did promise not to make a move tonight.

“Nervous, Mia?” I tease.

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