Page 49 of Emergence and Ascendance

"And what if this goes wrong?"

"It won't."

"You can't really say that."

"I can. It's all business, Scotlyn. Whether it's working this deal or working you, there are specifics involved that keep things clearly defined on how we navigate."

He carried our plates to an adjoining dining room and I followed. He set them both down and pulled out my chair.

"What other concerns do you have?"

I sighed. "Like being tied to a man whose sole purpose is to make me cum isn't enough of a concern."

Christian chucked and filled the seat next to me. "Can I think about it?"

"While we eat, yes. You need to decide before dinner's over."

"That's not enough time."

"It's enough." He paused and dropped his head to bless his food. I quietly did the same before cutting into my steak which was perfectly cooked. The vegetables were seasoned just rightand I was annoyed that this man was not only sexy but could also cook.

"Why are you so pressed to get my answer tonight?" I asked after downing some wine. The rich blend and spices from my food had my mouth and stomach very happy.

"Because you'll overthink it if I give you time."

He wasn't wrong. I had already spent hours analyzing last night, but instead of admitting he was right, I switched gears.

"The food is perfect."

"Thank you." Christian cut into his steak and lifted the fork to his lips. I watched and shit…

Bad idea because it reminded me of his mouth on me last night.

"This is so damn good but I'm sure you already know that."

"Just because I enjoy it doesn't mean it's good."

I used my knife to slice through the asparagus before stabbing the tip to lift it onto the fork. "What does everyone else think?"

"I live alone, Scot. No one else is here to weigh in."

I paused my fork just before the asparagus reached my lips and my eyes darted to his. He chuckled as if reading my mind but then confirmed seconds after.

"I didn't cook for my wife. She wouldn't have appreciated it and no other women have been to my home since the divorce. This is not a regular thing so the only opinion I have about my culinary skills is my own."

"Your personal business isn't my concern."

"Yet you're relieved."

"Relieved?" I frowned.

"Relieved I don't have a list of women who could weigh in on how good my cooking is."

"Why would I care?"

"Because you don't like the idea of another woman being where you are right now. In my home, at my table, being catered to."

"Your ego is just as impressive as this food."

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