“We’ll find ways I’m sure. We’ll just have to spend more time in my office with the door locked.”
I ponder this for a second. “But won’t she get suspicious?”
He laughs. “Most likely. She’s a clever girl.”
“Well, this should be interesting.”
“Very.”
He gallantly opens the door for me when we get to Orchard Heights. He follows me into the elevator, a protective hand at the small of my back. It’s just the two of us, and he slips his hand up my skirt. I like it, but he doesn’t have much time to get naughty before the door pings open at the second floor. He follows me out, and walks me to my apartment.
“You can’t come in,” I tell him. “Claudia is there.”
He smiles. “I know. I’m just being polite and walking my date to her door.”
“So gallant.”
We both stop just outside my door, and I drink him in. He’s always so distinguished, so beautiful. His dark stylish jacket falls over his shoulders perfectly, and he seems so tall as he stands over me, too close.
He inches closer and closes the gap between us. He smells delicious, and I just want to eat him up, but this is not the time or place. He presses his warm lips against my cheek, and his labored breathing arouses me. He doesn’t say a word as his mouth explores the contours of my face, so softly, it pains me. His mouth brushes against mine softly, searching for a reaction, an opportunity. I want to kiss him so badly, it hurts.
“You know the rules…” I breathe.
“I know,” he whispers, “but I want to kiss you, Gretchen.” His tongue sweeps along my bottom lip. “I need to kiss you.”
My body screams. My whole core is on fire. But I still don’t feel right about it. And this isn’t the time. I’m afraid we won’t be able to stop if we start. I reluctantly push him away.
“You’ll let me bite your ass,” he says softly. “But you won’t let me kiss you on the lips.”
“It’s just… It just feels too intimate,” I try to explain. “It doesn’t feel right.”
“Because I’m your boss?”
18
“No… because of Donovan. I’m just not ready.”
He takes my hand in his, and his thumb rubs the diamond on my finger. “I’ve noticed,” he says quietly. “I know he was the love of your life, but I’m hoping you can let me in soon.”
He’s breaking my heart. I hope so too. “Goodnight, Weston. Thank you for the amazing night.”
“Do me a favor,” he whispers against my ear. “Wear a skirt on Monday, and no panties.”
I smile. “I don’t believe that particular kind of request is listed in the agreement, Sir.”
“Damn the agreement,” he scoffs. “You won’t kiss me… at least give me a consolation prize.”
“Sorry, no can do,” I whisper, aroused at the thought of being pantieless around him all day, at the possibility of sinful stolen touches. “But perhaps I could wear a thong for you.”
He smiles. “Yes, that will do. For now.” He takes a step back. No hug. No peck on the cheek. “Goodnight, Grasshopper,” he says, and turns on his heel.
I’m taken aback by his abrupt departure. He’s upset. I can tell. I get it. Someone like him, a control freak, doesn’t like not getting his way. He really craved that kiss. But so did I.
My heart is heavy as I open my door.
Claudia is sitting on the sectional, watching mindless reality TV. She bounces off the sofa when she sees me. “How was it?”
I smile. “It was great. The food was amazing.”
“Forget about the food… tell me about him.”
I laugh. “How was Ethan? Is he sleeping?”
“Yes, he’s sleeping,” she replies impatiently. “He was great. Now, give me the goods. Did you two…?”
I shake my head. “No, I told you… we’re not doing that.”
She seems thoroughly disappointed. “What? What about some kissy-kissy action?”
“No… none of that either.”
She cocks a brow. “What’s wrong with you? The man is hot… I’d be on that like steak on a grill. Is he gay?”
I laugh. “No, he’s not gay.” Unlike Abigail, Claudia is not privy to the unique relationship Weston and I share. And she would never understand my reluctance to move forward. She doesn’t know what losing a loved one is like.
“Well, I was hoping for some juicy details, but what can you do.” She heads toward the entry hall. “I guess your date was a dud. I should get going.”
I reach for her and give her a squeeze. “Thank you so much, Claudia.