She pauses before answering. “Travers. Simone Travers.”
I freeze. Her first name isn’t familiar, but her last name punches me right in the gut.
The company two families built from nothing bears both our names. The same company my family is sole owner of now.
“Is this some kind of fucking joke?” I back away from Simone. To say the company split was nasty is putting it mildly. It was a bloodbath that almost put us under. Even just conversing with her is like pitting a Montague against a Capulet. “Why are you here?” I demand suspiciously.
“Because I was invited.”
“Why?”
“My family contributes a lot of money to the organization.”
“This particular organization? I find that ironic.” I scoff.
“Helping Vets is a noble cause.”
“Travers’ don't know a thing about being noble,” I spit.
“You’re one to talk. You and your family sit on a high horse, thinking you’re superior. But you’re just like all the rest. Lots of money and an expensive suit doesn't make you any better than me.” Anger flashes over her exquisite features, and the woman I was originally drawn to returns with a vengeance.
I seize her arm securely, adamant to make a point. “I’ve got news for you.I’mbetter than most everyone.”
“You are one cocky son of a bitch.” She tries to tug her arm out of my tight grip.
“Damn right, sweetheart. You don't get to where I am by being a pushover. Confidence is key.”
“Confidence, huh? Is that what you call it? I’m more inclined to agree with your friend. You’re an asshole.” Simone finally yanks herself free. As blindsided and pissed off as I am, our disconnection aggravates me above all else. Despite our family ties, I still want her as much now as I did before. Maybe even more. The notion of fucking a piece of forbidden fruit tempts me as powerfully as the Devil tempted Eve.
“Why are you really here?” I grab Simone again, interrogating her. Even her name is alluring.
Hostility radiates from every toned curve of her body. The clingy champagne material plastered to her skin allows me to pinpoint each seductive peak and enticing valley.
“Because this organization is incredibly important to me.” She looks me dead in the eyes with the heart of a warrior. Jesus, this woman. She’s as fierce as she is delicate. And I have never wanted anyone or anything as badly as I want her.Ever.
“Why?” I need to know.
“It helped when nothing else could.”
“Helped who?”
Seconds pound away like heavy drum beats until she finally answers.
“Me . . .”
1
Ty
Six monthslater
I never believed something as simple as a kiss could be so life altering.
But I was wrong.
Dead wrong.
Because a single kiss is holding my mind hostage. It's consumed my world. My lips still sting from the feel of hers. The sensation as potent now as it was six months ago on that dance floor.
