Page 10 of Roots of the Wicked

“I’ve been contemplating someone. However, I have certain rules where it concerns dating. My number one rule is to not make it a long-term investment.” He didn’t need to know I had stepped away from dating for the last six months in an attempt to get to know myself better. Mainly to figure out my need for absolute control.

Curiosity flashed in his eyes as he waited for me to elaborate.

“I don’t do long-term relationships Chase, and rarely do I go out on second dates. I say this now to make sure my expectations on dating are made clear.”

“Why?” he asked. “You’re beautiful, interesting, and hardworking based on what little I know about you. Why deny someone the opportunity to get to know you?”

My reasons were too personal to share, so I chose to ignore his question.

“Thanks for the compliment, but I don’t have the patience to share myself with someone.”

His forehead crinkled. “Aren’t you curious to at least try? What if you’re missing out on someone that could make you happy?”

Why was he so interested? Sexual chemistry was one thing, but he appeared interested in more than a whiff of my pussy. After everything that I had read about Chase, his reaction was strange.

“My job brings me joy and happiness Chase. In my opinion, I’m doing my dates a favor by cutting them loose. My controlling nature is not something that most will abide long-term.”

The determined set in his expression clearly said he was already dismissing everything I was telling him.

“Sometimes, all it takes is the right person who is willing to abide by your rules, but one who also has enough strength to show you a different way.”

His intriguing words caused me to lean forward and tuck my palms under my chin.

“Are you the person that’s supposed to show me a different way?”

“Of course I am.” He answered swiftly and with total confidence.

After a deep sigh, I dropped my head into my palm and scratched it, attempting to find a way to deter him from making a mistake.

“Since you’ve taken an interest in my work ethic, is there anything I may not have considered that will help improve Swift Capital?” I prayed the swift subject change would make him aware that I no longer wished to talk about relationships.

A teasing smile rested on his lips as he measured my words. Thankfully, he decided to play along. We maintained a casual business conversation until he stood, picked up his jacket and prepared to leave.

He edged up to my desk, his commanding height leaning over me was as potent as a full-body caress.

“Do me a favor Jax. Consider allowing yourself to accept something different. It won’t hurt unless you allow it to.”

I didn’t answer, but we held each other’s gazes until he turned and walked out.

Once he was out of sight, I exhaled. His nearness caused me to call out for desires I’d never felt before. My body craved his touch. My mind desired his challenge. Even my damn spirit acted like it wanted to get involved.

Chase had everything going for him, leading me to wonder if he could show me that something different he mentioned, but I already know my battle to change wouldn’t be easy. Was that why I was fighting so hard to turn him away? What if there was a chance for me to have more, release my demons, and stop denying myself?

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