Boyfriend for Hire(34)

“Sorry about earlier,” he says, taking our plates over to the sink. “I’m usually not this much of a mess. It’s really sweet of you to cook for me.” He pauses. “Especially after the way I’ve been acting.”

I watch him, not sure what to say. The fact that he’s acknowledging how strange he’s been acting makes me want to ask even more questions. I figured he’d just deny everything and try to make me feel crazy, which is what my ex used to do. I want to ask a million questions, but Nic seems like he’s really struggling with something, and I want him to tell me when he’s ready.

He sits up quickly, like he just remembered something. “I got you a present.” He leaves the kitchen, and when he comes back, he’s holding a large bag that he sets down on the table.

Shocked, I pull it toward me, wondering what he could possibly have gotten me. As I peek inside, I realize he bought review books for the bar exam.

I stare at him, wide-eyed and open-mouthed, unable to speak. I’m so touched that he cares that much, I forget all the anger I’ve been harboring over the last couple of days.

“You didn’t have to do this.”

He shakes his head. “I wanted to. I also signed you up for a review class. It starts next week.” Smiling, he says, “I know I should have probably checked with you first. I know you’re going to ace the bar, and I thought this would help.”

When I still don’t say anything, too overwhelmed to speak, he seems nervous.

“Did I cross a line?” he asks uncertainly.

My throat tightens with emotion and I shake my head, finally recovering from my shock. “Not at all. Nic, this is the nicest thing anyone’s ever done for me.”

A smile spreads across my face as I look from the books back to him. To have someone believe in me like this, especially someone I’ve known such a short time, means a lot to me. Plus, those review classes are really expensive. I’ve looked into them before, and I’m in awe at his generosity.

He smiles at me, that sweet sort of crooked smile, and my entire world shifts. All the anger and worry I felt slide away.

“Are you okay?” I ask.

He reaches out and takes my hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. “I will be.”

“You feel all right? Still drunk?”

He smirks at me. “I wasn’t drunk, I was . . . okay, I was drunk. But I actually feel pretty damn good now.” He laces his fingers with mine and tugs me toward the couch.

“Will you tell me what happened?”

Nic looks down at his hands, and he’s quiet for a second. “I want to. I will when the time is right.”

I trust him. I’m not sure what happened to make him clam up, but I believe him when he says he’ll explain it all.

The air between us grows heavier, and I become aware of the fact that we’re sitting just inches apart.

Still holding my hand, Nic slides his thumb along my inner wrist, and just that simple touch sends pleasure skittering along my nerve endings. He leans closer, and my heartbeat starts to riot.

“I don’t deserve this,” he whispers before his lips press to mine.

I kiss him back, and oh dear God, I’ve missed this. My lips part in silent invitation, and Nic slides his tongue softly against mine.

I forgot how sexy and sensual he is, almost even without trying. His kisses are slow and deep and perfect. He tastes like whiskey and heaven, and as his hands slip into my hair, I make a tiny noise of approval.

He reaches down and lifts me onto his lap in one quick motion as we continue to kiss. I wrap my legs around his hips and put my arms around his neck, pressing my body against his hard chest. I love the feel of his firm stomach and chest, and can’t help running my hands along the muscles beneath his T-shirt.

“Elle . . .” He groans when I touch his stomach, just above his belt.

I can feel him hard and ready between my thighs, and my breath catches in my throat.

His gaze drops from mine, traveling slowly down my body, making me shiver with desire as it comes to rest on my breasts. They feel heavy against my black bra, and my nipples are hard underneath the thin fabric. He slides his hands down my shoulders, gently cupping my breasts before running a thumb across each of my nipples. I moan, arching my back, wanting more.

“Should we take this to your bedroom?” I ask, my voice breathy.

He pauses, meeting my gaze. His eyes are dark and heavy with desire, but his hesitation makes me nervous. I’ve never wanted someone more in my life, and I don’t think I’ll be able to stand it if he stops this now.





Chapter Sixteen


Nic



How the fuck am I supposed to say no to her again?

For weeks now, I’ve resisted her. Told myself that nothing good could come from acting on the desires she stirs in me. I fought with myself, pushed those desires away. Tried my best to ignore them, blue balls be damned.

But now she’s here and sexier than ever. The way she barged in here to check on me, cooked for me, made me eat? It’s like I traded one buzz for another.

I’ve never been with anyone as sweet and caring as Elle. I have friends, sure, but no one who cares about me this way. Case only cares if I’m out making him money or not. And Elle isn’t just anyone. I care about her too. And fuck, she looks so goddamn tempting.

Even I have my limits.