Page 15 of Judge’s Redemption

“No, I don’t.”

“You think Evie liking you means I have to trust you?”

“No…Shay, I don’t.”

“You keep saying the right thing.”

His mouth twists. “That pisses you off?”

“Yes.”

“Why?”

“Because you were always good at knowing what to say.”

His expression goes still. “You think this is an act?”

“I think you can convince yourself anything you do is necessary.” I move to step around him and Judge catches my waist.

The touch is light, but my body reacts as though he's dragged a flame across my skin. “Let me go.”

“Look at me Shay.”

“I don't want to.”

“Liar.”

I shove at his chest. He doesn't move. “Temporary,” I spit. “Wasn't that the word? I was convenient until you were finished with me.”

Pain flashes across his face, good. I want him to feel it like I did.

“You were never temporary.”

“You made damn sure I believed I was.”

“Then tell me what you want me to say.”

“I want you to admit you wanted me gone more than you wanted me.”

His grip tightens on my waist. “No, I won’t do that.”

I laugh bitterly. “Of course not.”

“No, because it isn't true.” He pulls me closer. “I wanted you so badly I could barely think straight. I still do.”

My breath catches.

Judge's gaze drops to my mouth. “I've spent three weeks keeping my hands off you because you asked me to. Don't mistake that for me not wanting to bend you over that chair every time I walk into this place.”

Heat tears through me. “Arrogant bastard.” I reply.

“Tell me I'm wrong and that you don’t think the same.”

“You don't get to order me around, or think about me.”

His thumb presses into the curve of my waist. “Tell me, you don’t want me.”

I should. Instead, I grab the front of his cut and kiss him. Judge makes a rough sound as his mouth crashes over mine. This kiss is nothing like the one on my porch. That was shock and grief. This is fury and heat.