Page 66 of Crossing Lines

“It’s tough. Wanting to help her but can’t. After all these years and all the pain she caused, I still want to help her.” I pour more alcohol and throw it back.

“You have a good heart, and she’s your mama.”

I glance at where she’s still rubbing me on my arm. Catching herself, she eases her hand away and gulps her drink.

“So you and ol’ boy made up after your so-called walk in the park?” I question while pouring more.

She side-eyes me. “Kross.”

I chug the drink, jealousy boiling at the thought of him touching her. “You let him hit?”

Her head lowers. “That’s none of your business.”

My lips curl as I discern the truth in her expression. “You didn’t. Good.”

She finishes her drink and pours more. “You think you have a right to what’s between my legs?”

“Still don’t want you giving him a fucking thing.”

“Geez.” She cuts her gaze and gulps the alcohol.

I observe her intensely. “You happy with him?”

“You already asked me that, Kross.”

“I’m asking again. This time, tell me the truth.”

“About what?” Her eyes travel around the office, regarding everything but me.

I place my finger under her chin and gently steer her focus back. “How do you feel, baby girl?”

A low moan escapes her as I brush her hair aside and touch her ear. “Kross… stop.”

“Stop what?” I scoff. “Quit acting like you didn’t wear this sexy ass dress for me after I told you to come out and have a drink with me.”

She clicks her tongue. “I have a man. Yes, he’s always busy, but he’s a good man. He loves me.”

“Then why are you staring at me all horny? Where’s he at, and why aren’t you there with him?”

Her lust-fueled eyes fall to the drink in her hand.

“Why are you here, Davi? Tell me the truth.”

She looks at me. “I like being near you.”

“Cause you’re feeling me.” I take her glass and set both on the coffee table.

“It’s because Jamir neglects me. We barely spend any time together, and when we do—”

“—Your mind is on me.” I shift closer to run my fingers over her smooth thigh, causing quivers. “You want me.”

“Kross,” she whispers shakily. “That’s wrong. Calling you in Paris was wrong.”

“What if we’re right?” I counter.

She looks at where I’m touching her. “I don’t know.”

“Spend some time with me to figure it out. We’ll talk, do fun shit. Nothing more unless you say so.” I caress her cheek, making her look at me again.

---