Page 10 of The Secrets He Keeps

Was he? Probably.

He shrugged. “I’m also logical, analytical, and sometimes a bit overly focused. Ultimately, I trust in what my experiences have revealed to me.”

“And what is that?”

“People need love.” When she rolled her eyes, he smiled. “Don’t get me wrong, madam. The pleasures of the flesh are also absolutely necessary, but when sexual satisfaction combines with true emotion within a devoted partnership, something wonderful is created.”

“A delusion?”

Erik caught her gaze and held it. “I promise you. It is very real.”

The lady set her unfinished stout on the table and stood. Erik rose as well, allowing himself a quick perusal of her stunning figure.

“While I appreciate your candid explanation, Mr. Maxwell,” she began as she slid her gloves on, smoothing the satin from her fingertips to her elbows, “it reveals a significant flaw in your planned demonstration.”

He lifted a brow. “Does it?”

Her red lips widened in a smile that was more genuine than most he’d received from her. “We are not married. And I am not a high-society gentlewoman.”

Erik watched with deep appreciation as she turned and sauntered to the door where the manager was waiting with her fur-lined coat. She stepped out into a light swirl of winter snow.

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