“I love it when you whisper those sweet nothings in my ear,” Wolf deadpanned as he slipped on his suit jacket.
“I’m saving that for later, Wolfie.” He breezed past Wolf on his way to the door but was caught by the arm. Startled, he gazed into Wolf’s serious face.
“I haven’t said thank you. It was overwhelming to speak about it after all these years.”
“You don’t thank family. We’re always there for each other; that’s what we do.”
“I’d do the same for you, if you needed me.”
Spencer’s heart pounded. What would Wolf do if he blurted out what he was really thinking?I’ve always needed you. Probably laugh at him. “I’m okay.”
“Doubtful, but I’ll let it pass. For now.”
“Why, Wolfie, are you calling me a liar?” He placed a brilliant smile on his lips, but Wolf, never anyone’s fool, continued to gaze at him with those watchful eyes.
“You forget what you told me earlier about college?”
His smile faded, and he shrugged. “That was a long time ago. I’m not the same person.”
“I’m not so sure about that,” Wolf murmured but let him go. “I’ll get a car for us.”
They left his office, and Spencer remained by his side. Wolf stopped by the open door of one of the partners’ offices.
“I’m leaving now. See you tomorrow.”
“Wolf. There’s no need to show up tomorrow. I think you’ve earned a day off.” Doyle, as the nameplate on the wall outside stated, left his seat to meet Wolf and gazed at Spencer with curiosity.
“That’s what I tell him, but he doesn’t listen to me. He hasn’t for over fifteen years.” Spencer gave him a winning smile.
“Then you should be used to me ignoring you,” Wolf groused. “Doyle, this is my friend Spencer Hawkins. Spencer, senior partner Doyle Lewis.”
“I can’t believe this is the first time we’re meeting, considering Wolf is one of my oldest and dearest friends.” They shook, and Spencer eyed the man’s suit and tried to be diplomatic. “I’m head stylist for Maximillian’s men’s department. Please stop by, and I’ll be happy to help you with a refresh.”
Doyle burst out laughing. “Is it that obvious I haven’t bought a new suit in five years? My wife will be eternally grateful.”
“We deal with busy corporate types all the time. Send her in your stead, and she and I can have some fun. I send Wolf clothes all the time.” Spencer handed him his card and grinned while Wolf shook his head in disgust.
“I just might. Wolf, I meant what I said. You’ve had a rough few months. Take some time to recharge.”
“I agree, Doyle. He really needs a break.” Knowing he’d pay for it later—but what a way to go—Spencer hooked his arm through Wolf’s. “I will personally make sure he stays in bed all day tomorrow. Even if I have to tie him to it.”
Wolf’s nostrils flared, the only outward indication of his fury, but when their eyes met and Spencer saw Wolf’s rage simmering, a thrill ran through him. Oh, Wolf was pissed, and Spencer couldn’t wait to be on the receiving end of all that hot, delicious anger.
“We need to go now. I have a car waiting.”
They didn’t speak until the elevator doors closed behind them, and then Spencer was shoved up against the rear wall of the cab, caged between Wolf’s arms. Heat poured off him, and Spencer’s nerves tingled to awareness.
“You think you’re funny, don’t you?” Wolf bared his teeth in an almost feral smile.
“Stop being so touchy, Wolfie. He had no idea what I meant.”
“You and that goddamn mouth of yours,” Wolf growled, but Spencer caught that now-familiar gleam in Wolf’s eye, and throwing caution to the wind, kissed him hard. As he’d hoped, Wolf opened up to meet the push of his tongue.
A second later they sprang apart, both breathing hard, when the automated voice announced they’d reached the lobby. Head held high, Wolf strode out, and Spencer hastened after him.
“You love it, don’t lie.”
Their car idled at the curb, and Wolf opened the door for him. “Maybe,” he said as Spencer slid inside and smiled to himself.
