While they waited for their meals. Evan addressed why he wanted to see her. “I owe you an apology for my behaviour the last time I saw you. Although I didn't realize it at the time, my proposal was completely inappropriate. You were shown a lack of respect when nothing could be further from the truth. I have a great deal of respect for you.”
Evan hadn’t expected an immediate response, but she surprised him. “Thank you for your apology. You went through a major life change. I can understand that you misspoke and didn’t want to pursue me intimately.”
“It seems you misunderstand me. I very much want to… how did you phrase it want to pursue you intimately? My apology extends to implying I would reward you monetarily for doing so.”
“I’m sorry. I’m confused.”
One thing he admired most about Seraphina was her intelligence. Her ‘confusion’ was a more of a refusal to understand what he was saying. Therefore, he clarified. “You’re not. I want you.”
Her sigh was indulgent, and he didn’t appreciate it. “Evan, we worked so closely together while you were going through a huge life change. I think this is a case of transference.” She couldn’t be serious. Perhaps it was a byproduct of who he was, but he wasn’t used to people questioning him. Especially not concerning his wants.
“Transference?” He questioned as he worked to keep the censure out of his tone.
“Yes, transference is when—”
“I know the definition of transference. I just happen to know this isn’t a case of… transference. From the moment I met you, I was drawn to you.”
“You can’t be. It isn’t a good idea.” Her denial was endearing.
“I’m sure you know it doesn’t work that way. Whether or not it is a good idea, the fact remains, it is how I feel.”
“Hmm. Is this… what you hope to happen between us why you funded VAI?” Evan had made sure that the institution wouldn’t have to worry about keeping their doors open for the next decade. However, if they required more than the twelve and half million dollars, he would happily grant more.
“No. I funded it because I benefited from the service, and I want to ensure that others can as well. I regret implying that aid was contingent on us becoming physical.”
“Thank you. It means so much to me, and everyone at VAI.”
Lunch was served, and a few bites in, a thought struck him. She hadn’t said she wasn’t attracted to him nor given him a no. Instead, she presented an excuse to deter him. Well, he wasn’t a man easily deterred. “Seraphina, I know it is not your responsibility to assist me if you believe I have a case of transference, but I would appreciate your help all the same.”
Evan was certain he felt her attraction to him. She just needed a reason to go for it. Even if that reason was implausible.
“Um, I don’t know. What do you have in mind?”
“Now that we have had a year apart. I suggest we spend a night together. Maybe that will help us figure out if this is simply a case of transference.”
ChapterThree
SERAPHINA
Evan couldn’t possibly be serious. What he was proposing was ridiculous. Sleeping together wouldn’t help with transference, it would only make it worse. Seraphina was sure that he understood that. Yet he was suggesting they sleep together. Could it be because he just wanted to sleep with her? She should run far and fast. Instead, she sat cutting into her red snapper filet, considering it. Why? Because she wanted to say yes. Last night you were pleasuring yourself, imagining it was him and now he’s offering to do that.
Seraphina had completely forgotten about her manners. It hadn’t been a question, but Evan was waiting for her answer. Nothing was preventing her from taking him up on his offer. He was no longer a client of VAI. She had clarified that no money would exchange hands. So why not?
Because you know how easy it is for you to catch feelings once you part your legs.She thought to herself.No! I’m a grown woman. Just because I’m attracted to him doesn’t mean I’ll fall for him. Besides, I have been looking for someone who knows how to take charge. Doesn’t Evan scream take charge?She hadn’t missed the way he’d ordered her to do things.
“Would you like to share something with me?” Evan’s voice jolted her from her thoughts.
“Sorry, what?”
“You were mumbling. Were you having an in-depth conversation with yourself?” Evan looked amused.
Seraphina felt mortified. “I’m so sorry. I was thinking about what you said.”
“Are you having a hard time trying to figure out why you should say no?” Well, that was very perceptive of him. Maybe he understood how much she wanted to say yes. What did she have to lose by being honest with him?
“I’m leaning towards saying yes.”
“What would make you comfortable enough to agree? Think about it, and even if you think it may be a big ask, let me worry about that. Just tell me.”
