Page 7 of Bastard In A Suit

“Kingston Industries is a company built on innovation,” I say, gaining confidence. I’m taking a risk, but I need to salvage this meeting or I can kiss my business aspirations goodbye. “

“And it’s only by taking risks on products with the potential to have a big upside that a company grows to dominate the market the way your company has done. We are that kind of product. We may be high risk, but the rewards could also be great if we succeed.”

A glimmer of interest glows behind Duke’s stony expression. “I’m always interested in great rewards,” he says, looking directly into my eyes now.

My stomach flutters. “No doubt we—I—have botched this meeting, and I’m not going to offer any excuses.” I swallow hard. “But if you’d just give us a chance to regroup and come back with a second pitch, I know we can impress you.”

Jesus. That came off cockier than I’d intended, but we could use a break here.

Duke doesn’t say anything. I hold his stare and pretend my core isn’t tightening in response to his raw sexuality. His eyes travel the length of my body. It’s so subtle, and yet I feel stripped bare. Naked and vulnerable. My skin burns so hot I’m afraid it might catch fire.

He runs his tongue over his bottom lip. “I don’t give second chances.”

The air pushes out of my lungs in a hard gasp. My eyes burn and I blink back tears.

“But I will agree to hear a revised pitch,” he says. “Tonight.”

My knees buckle with relief.

Jake tilts his head back and lets loose a sigh. Forrest’s grin stretches from one side of his boyish face to the other.

“Tonight?” I repeat.

Duke nods. “At dinner.”

My throat practically closes shut at the thought of having to do this again so soon. Facing Duke Kingston is like going before a firing squad.

He glances at his watch. “Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have another meeting to attend.”

“Of course,” Forrest says. “And thank you, sir.”

“You won’t regret this,” Jake says, extending his hand. “We’ll look forward to dinner.”

Duke dismisses them and locks his gaze on me again. “Just you,” he says. “My secretary will call you with the details.”

A shockwave of thrill and fear ripples through me.