Chad chuckled, his dimples front and center. “When did you become a sleep expert?”
“In fact, the Mitus mattress might be the reason you change your mind and agree to come on board.” Colton kept his fiery gaze pinned on Brigit.
“I think I’d like a new mattress,” Elliott chimed in.
When Colton glanced at the food spread on the island, Brigit guzzled her ice water hoping to cool her internal thermostat.
“I’ll have breakfast in my sitting room,” Colton said.
“It’s Saturday,” Chad said. “Your scepter wields no power.”
“I’ll bring you something.” Vanessa set down her fork. “Be up shortly.”
“Thank you, Vanessa,” said Colton. “Someone cares about me.”
“Always.” Jumping, Vanessa filled a plate.
Colton excused himself. Like a dutiful servant Vanessa followed, a plate of food and a mug of coffee balanced on a tray. Chad wolfed down a piece of quiche while standing at the island, then bolted.
After breakfast, Taylor escorted Brigit upstairs and waited while she packed. In addition to leaving the couture gowns in the closet, she left the stunning diamond pendant on the bureau. She needed no reminders of that man or their torrid night.
Taylor picked up the necklace. “Colton bought this for you. You should take it.”
Chad knocked as he poked his head inside the open door. “I’m driving you home. You ready?”
“All set.”
Wearing khakis, a polo shirt and lightweight jacket, Chad collected her computer and roller bags. Slinging her handbag over her shoulder, she followed into the hallway. Just then, Colton’s bedroom door opened and Vanessa emerged with the tray. Brigit’s heart dipped.
“Bye bye, Brigit,” Vanessa called, sounding a little too happy.
As they headed toward the grand staircase, Brigit waved. In the foyer, Taylor opened the front door and Brigit turned to admire the home one last time. Seth had been right. The house and its furnishings were exquisite. While Chad secured Brigit’s bags in the trunk of the Bentley, Taylor walked her to the car.
“It would be great if you worked here,” Taylor said. “You got the message loud and clear. Your wealth management expertise is definitely needed. Work aside, I like you, Brigit. You have an invincible energy.” She leaned close. “That’s what Colton needs.”
Brigit knewexactlywhat that man needed. Taylor hugged her, then opened the back door. After sliding into the backseat, Brigit said, “Oh, no. Not you again.”
17
THE SEXY RIDE HOME
Brigit’s heart lodged inher throat. Colton’s sly grin sent a sexual jolt pinging through her. The familiar scent of his just-washed hair wafted in her direction and her insides came alive. Damn traitorous body.
He grinned. “I knew you’d be pleased to see me.”
“Thrilled,” she deadpanned. “What are you doing here?”
“After we take you home, we’re golfing at my club.” His khaki pants and navy blue jersey outlined his solid frame. She fought the urge to run her fingers over his scruffy cheeks, pull him close and kiss him.Enough.
“I hope you packed the necklace.” Colton pushed a button and the privacy divider rose.
“Oh, sure,” Chad said. “Shut me out of the conversation, like I’m not even—”
Brigit flipped her gaze back to Colton. “No, I left it.”
“Rejecting my gift. Rejecting my job offer. I’m going to have to work harder at getting you to sayyes.”
“I agreed to plenty, if memory serves me.”
