“What am I then?”
“You’re shy and sweet, smart and a force to be reckoned with as a publicist, funny and so sassy when you’re mad. Most of all, you’re strong enough to get through today.”
Her throat bobs, expression becoming emotional. “You think so?”
“I know so, Ari.”
“I wish I hadn’t let the guy get away.”
“You went into shock. Don’t blame yourself. Everyone reacts differently.” Curiosity nagging at me, I ask, “Why did you take the bus? You have a car.”
“It broke down. The bus station was nearby and I was running late. The cab would’ve taken longer. I didn’t think it was a big deal. I used to take the bus all the time when I was in college.”
“Why didn’t you call me to come pick you up? Or tell me you’ll be late.”
“I was worried you might postpone and I was excited to see you.” She stills as soon as her admission is out. My grip on her thigh tightens. An embarrassing hue hitting her face, she nervously babbles, “Sorry, notexcitedlike we’re dating or anything… I meant you’re an important client and I…”
“Ari.”
She doesn’t even pause to breathe. “I didn’t want you to think I wasn’t taking your case seriously in case you had urgent information to share. I know you’re a busy person and I value yo—”
I shut her up with a kiss.
Inching back, I speak against her trembling lips. “I was excited to meet you too… because you’re my favorite publicist to work with.”
“Oh.”
Turning serious, I sternly say, “Next time, don’t hide from me when you’re hurting.”
“I was respecting your wishes,” she replies. “You were adamant about not wanting to be a shoulder to lean on.”
“An error on my part.”
“So will you…” Her gaze drops to my chest as she utters, “Stay with me?”
My chest tightens because it feels like she means more than just today. Except, today is all I have to give her. Resting my forehead against hers, I answer, “Not only am I going to stay, but I’ll also take care of you.”
A full-blown smile etches on her round face. Stealing another soft kiss, I lift her off my lap and place her beside me.
“Let me see you.” I grab the tie keeping her robe together.
Before I can unknot it, she cups my wrists. “You don’t have to.”
“I want to.” Untying the sash, I part her robe. She has scrubbed her skin raw until it’s pink and red everywhere I look. I clench my teeth to hide the wave of fury washing over me. “Angel, how long were you in the shower?”
“I don’t know.”
“Where’s your dresser?” I ask, standing up.
“In the closet.”
“Wait here.” I walk into her closet to my right.
The cupboards are done in rose gold with built-in lights. Her dresser is up against the wall at the end. Sauntering toward it, I grab her jasmine-scented moisturizer. Searching the other shelves, I pick a pink sweatshirt and black leggings. Next, I open drawers and pick her a matching set of undergarments.
I try not to react when I stare at her collection of sexy lace and silk sets, along with garter belts. Did she buy them after we hooked up or for her stupid ex? I swear I’m tempted to take his eyes out if he has seen her dressed in these.
Her head twists my way when I reenter the room. Gaze roaming over the items I’m holding, her cheeks heat.
