Page 6 of Resist

I nod again and then force a smile in return when I still feel like a riot of chaos inside. “Exactly, and that’s why the senator has paid me for your time off for the next few days.”

Lola’s full lips slide into a grin that contrasts with the smudged mascara and her bloodshot eyes. “I knew it was a good choice switching agencies.”

“I promised I’d take care of you.”

“You just did.”

All is now right in her world.

While mine is still on shaky ground.

CHAPTER THREE

Vaughn

S-E-X.

Three letters that spell one very powerful word. And an even more potent act.

Sex. It’s something many want. It’s something some would risk everything for. It’s something men have staked their empires on.

In all reality, it’s two people coming together in the most primal of ways. A pleasurable act for some. The way others display their affection.

For me, it’s none of that. It’s not pleasurable. It’s something that gets screwed up when emotion is thrown into the mix. It’s definitely not something I think about in the contextual sense.

Sex is about power, just like money is. And when one pays money for sex, it’s a transaction. Quite simply, it’s a temporary exchange of power.

Sex.

On paper and in public, I sell dates.

In reality, I sell sex.

And I’m damn good at it.

I sigh and walk toward my desk—my itemized lists dotting every surface—and know right now I need to be even better at it.

Ryker Lockhart.

He’s the reason why I need to up my game.

He’s the man Lola was supposed to meet for the first time tonight, and no thanks to the senator, now she can’t.

He’s the key to reaching the next level in this business.

And damn it to hell if he isn’t gorgeous as well.

Lowering myself into my desk chair, I study the striking image on my computer screen of Ryker Lockhart staring back at me.

Dark hair with salt and pepper at the temples that adds a distinguished air to him. His hair has a wave to it that he’s tried to control with product. His eyes are captivating. Intense. Their light-brandy color and the look in them hold my attention much longer than they should.

“Why do you need an escort?” I murmur, curious why a man that handsome has any problem getting a woman.

He must be a jerk.

Or be horrible in bed.

But even jerks and guys who are selfish in the sack get women when they look like him.