Page 32 of If The Shoe Fits

Real life problems. The ones she'd said he didn't have. She was right.

"Where would you travel?"

"Where wouldn't I travel?" she shot back. "I want to see Europe, South America, Africa, Asia, Australia…everywhere. Cassie's traveled a lot over the last few years. I'm so jealous."

But she didn't look envious of her sister as she smiled with fondness.

"I have to go to Australia soon, for a few months. We're expanding the company."

Come with me.Another offer he didn't say out loud.

People didn't invite women they'd only just met to the other side of the world.

"Lucky you! When are you leaving?"

Was he mistaken, or did she seem downcast at the thought of his leaving?

"In a few weeks, after James finishes negotiating the purchase of the site. I'll be there to supervise our expansion. That usually takes a few months."

He paused. "But I can come back for the holidays, and a few weekends here and there."

"Weekends?" Helene echoed. "From Australia? That won’t be worth the trip. You'd be exhausted."

"That depends on what I have planned on my way back. I can think of a thing or two that might keep me quite stimulated." They'd reached the end of the park by then. "Are you going to your sister's?"

The Parkers' house was only a few streets over. Cade lived a few blocks north.

"Yeah. Being homeless is so much fun." She rolled her eyes.

"Not many get to be homeless in an Upper East Side mansion."

"I know. I should check my privilege." Still grinning, she waved her hand. "Until next time, then?"

Cade took a moment to consider his options. He most definitely didn't want to seem like that guy, pushing a girl who wasn't interested in repeating their fun. On the other hand, he wanted it to be clear that he was interested in more. More than one time. More than one night. More than having the physical part of her and discarding the rest.

So, instead of behaving like a civilized gentleman and bowing out of her way, he took her hand, and tugged her closer. "Just one thing first."

Slow, giving her plenty of time to move out of the way or stop him, he slid one hand to her waist, bringing her flush against him, and cupped her chin with the other. Then, he kissed her again.

Just like last time, his entire body shot with a jolt of pure adrenaline the instant their lips touched. She was fire. Electric. Her soft curves felt like perfection against him.

For one moment,she was all his.

Then he had to let go. "Until next time."

---