Page 82 of His Rules

“I found you rather reprehensible.”

I always loved to hear his laugh, so deep and enthralling, but on such a star-filled night, the sound was genuine. “I guess I deserved that.”

“You did. My mother would call you a poor excuse of a male specimen.”

“And what do you think?”

“I think as a male specimen you’re damn hot. As a human being, you could learn a few things about dealing with people.”

“That’s why you’re going to be in charge of all operations of Winfield Partners, including the employees.”

The aroma of the food was almost as enticing as the scent of the forest mixed with a dash of cinnamon and a hint of cardamon. “Then we need to renegotiate my salary.”

“How did I know you’d say that?”

“You just think you know me so well. You don’t.”

“I’ll take that as a challenge, Ms. Taylor.”

I enjoyed watching him eat. He had a command of everything, easily creating an aura that no one could mistake. He was in charge of the world around him and everyone involved. I almost envied him. I also felt saddened by his inability to trust. It must be tough being on top.

“I’m certain I’m due for many more surprises, Kacey. I look forward to them just as I do seeing your methods of handling our future business. Let’s be very clear about your father. I never want to interfere in your relationship with him. He is important to you as he should be. However, you’re important to me and I can weather whatever he doles out when he learns about us. You do so when and if you want.”

“But…”

“But I think it’s weighing heavily on you.”

I nodded and took another bite. There is no way my father would ever understand. But Sebastian was right. “Yes, I know.”

“But as I said, the decision is yours. Now, let’s enjoy the evening.”

“Thank you for making this evening special.”

“You’re very welcome. Consider this the first of many good things to come.”

As I continued eating, several thoughts drifted through my mind, including whether our relationship could last. It was ridiculous to go down that road. I still didn’t have a handle on what we were doing in the first place. Whatever it was, being with him felt incredible.

“Favorite color?” I threw out.

“Isn’t that obvious? Red.”

“Mine too.”

“Somehow I guessed that.” He allowed his explosive gaze to fall from my face to the dress I was wearing. I’d purposely selected red. “My turn. Favorite food?”

“Pasta. Can’t you tell?” I twirled more on my fork and instead of taking a bite, I eased the fork across the table, giving him a demanding look.

“I’m a meat and potatoes man.”

“So it seems. It won’t hurt you to venture out, try new things. Open your mouth.”

“Yes, ma’am.” When he did, he half closed his eyes, his long dark eyelashes skimming across his cheeks. “Delicious.”

“Of course it is. You just need to open your eyes and see what’s right in front of you.”

He did almost as if I’d commanded him, first licking the fork provocatively before reaching across the table and lifting my chin with a single finger. “I have no doubt what’s right in front of me. The perfect gem.”

“I don’t know about that.”

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