Page 20 of Relentless Pursuit

“Two weeks ago, when Kayla walked into Sapphire.” Blake arched a brow. “Tell me I’m wrong. Tell me you don’t see more than what you usually want when you think of her. That’s why you’re running away and why you don’t want to see her with anyone else.”

He stared at him for a few moments, debating his words. Even if what he said was true, Julian wasn’t ready to admit it. The only thing he was ready to admit was he didn’t want Kayla with anyone other than him. Selfish or not, that was the way it was going to be.

“Are you done analyzing me?” Julian asked.

“You could use a shrink.”

“I’m stopping that.” He motioned toward Kayla and Vince. “Before it gets started.”

“Fine, but you be prepared for what you unleash in her. Be very certain you’re ready to do what’s necessary with Kayla.”

“I am.” Julian took deliberate strides in Kayla’s direction, being careful not to make eye contact with at least three women he knew were interested in him on his way to his only focus tonight.

He should have known he wasn’t going to rid himself of the constant ache he’d had for her. A better man would allow her to explore all of her options. He was not that man. If she was so hell-bent on seeing how this whole process worked, it would be him who introduced her to it. Slowly, carefully. Not every man could handle such a responsibility. New submissives were delicate. One bad experience could scar them for a long time. He never wanted to see her suffer or endure any unnecessary pain. No one would dim those vibrant eyes. If he had to be the one to make sure she was properly cared for in her youthful quest, then so be it.

Yeah, just keep telling yourself that, asshole.

“Kayla.” He kept his voice low, but stern.

She snapped her head in his direction when he spoke her name. Her eyes were wide with shock, but why? She had to know he would be there tonight. Hadn’t that been what she wanted? To tease him? Get a rise out of him? She had succeeded, but now it was his turn to show her who was in control.

“Mr. Anders,” she said.

Her meaning of using his last name wasn’t lost on him.Feisty little thing.

“How are you?” Her full, pink lips curved into a delicious smirk. “See anything you like tonight?”

You have no idea.

“Julian.” Vince extended his hand. “I’m Kyle Sloan. We met at a golf outing last year.”

“Yes.” He shook Vince’s hand. “I remember.”

“Your law firm beat my company’s team by two strokes.”

“It was a fun day.” Julian returned his attention to Kayla as he spoke to Vince. “I hope you’re enjoying your experience at Sapphire.”

“It’s a great place. I love the atmosphere,” Vince said.

“If there’s anything Blake can do for you, please let him know.” He extended his hand for Kayla. “I’d like to speak with you for a moment.”

“I’m in the middle of something,” she responded.

Wrong answer.

“I don’t mind,” Kyle said. “I have to make a call anyway.”

“Okay.” She looked into Julian’s eyes, not moving.

You should be afraid of what you’ve just unleashed.He continued to hold her attention.Stop hesitating.If it was a stare down she wanted, he would win. After a few seconds, she gave in and dropped her gaze to her lap.Perfect.

When she slid out of the booth, he placed his hand on the small of her back, noting how her muscles tensed beneath his touch. Was she afraid? Or had he pissed her off? She sped up, putting some distance between them. Pissed off—definitely pissed off.

He grinned, because he could work with that. Taking her hand in his, he led her to a narrow hallway and out of the main area.

“What is it you want now?” she asked. “I thought you were done with the games.”

“What are you doing here?”

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