Page 13 of Chaos & Corruption

“Come on, I’ll walk you up.”

I hike the strap of my purse over my shoulder and twirl my keyring around my finger.

“Oh, you don’t have to do that.” I walk toward the door and pause in front of him. “Thanks for the ride. Maybe I’ll see you around.”

His brows pinch together but I don’t give the expression much thought. Turning around, I move to enter the lobby when he reaches out and tags my wrist.

“Are you going to fight me every time I try to do something nice?”

My gaze slides back to him.

“It’s been a long night.”

“And?” he presses.

“And I’ve had a lot to drink.”

“I’m not looking to rip your clothes off, Victoria.” He pauses and his gaze shamelessly sweeps over my body.

Yeah, that’s believable—especially when he’s staring at me like that.

Sighing, he releases his hold on my wrist and brings his eyes back to mine.

“Full transparency?”

Not trusting my voice, I nod.

“I’m not sure what I’m looking to do with you. Yesterday, I wanted nothing to do with you.”

Well, at least he’s honest.

“I hate to break it to you buddy, but you didn’t want anything to do with me an hour ago,” I point out.

He shakes his head.

“Wrong,” he deadpans. “An hour ago I was staring at you wondering how those lips would feel against mine and hating myself for it.” My lips part in shock. “I’ve got goals and I don’t do well with distractions.”

“I…um…” I smack my lips together and swallow. “You barely know me.”

“I know I like what I’m looking at.” He cocks his head to the side. “Let me walk you to your door, Victoria. It’ll make me feel better about being such a fuck earlier.”

I pull my lip between my teeth and consider his request.

“Fine, but you’re still a fuck.”

His lips quirk.

“Duly noted.”

With a sigh, I lead him toward the stairs. We climb two flights in silence but as we start up the third, he speaks.

“You said Mila is one of the reasons you transferred here,” he says, pausing mid-climb. “What are the others?”

I turn and lean against the railing.

“Well, you’ve met my family.”

He laughs. The muscles and broody stare are hot and all, but his laugh? That trumps all. He sobers some and his eyes bore into mine.

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