Games People Play

“I’m afraid I played a dangerous game and it has to stop now,” Adam said as he loosened his grip on Cori’s body. “Please, you don’t know what it does to me when you touch me. Stop,” his soft voice pleaded.

“No.”  

“There’s no point. Let go before I come in my pants and embarrass myself.” 

Reluctantly, she pulled back feeling hurt, but also white hot. His affect on her didn’t stop with their separation. She still tingled from him.

He ran a hand through his hair and kept his gaze low. “Because of what you did at the pub, I wanted to get back at you by making you want me. I didn’t even know if I could do that.”

“You could. And did.” She had to laugh. Now she had a chance to make things right. But he didn’t smile.

“I shouldn’t have done it. Shouldn’t even have approached you, but I couldn’t stop myself. I’ve never found myself more attracted to anybody in my life. I can’t even explain how beautiful I think you are. Words aren’t adequate.”

She froze feeling warmth wash all over her. “That’s—quite a compliment. I saw Amy’s picture. She’s gorgeous.”

His mouth twisted. “She’s a Barbie doll. You’re something more. Besides, she’s about as mature as a fourteen year old and you’re a woman. I just…” He appeared as if searching for elusive words.

She desperately wanted to throw herself into his arms. “You’re not so bad yourself, babe. I’ve never felt this sort of attraction either.”

His lips turned up slightly.

Encouraged, she went on. “Your touch alone is almost enough to cause an orgasm. I’m willing to make love to you. Hell, I want to.”

“I have that employee rule.” He puzzled her by taking a step backwards.

“Break it.”

“I can’t.” The pain on his face seemed real.

“What’s wrong? Please tell me.” She clenched her fists to keep her hands to herself.

He turned away, frustrating her further.

“I’ve kept this a secret from everyone else,” he said, his voice suddenly harsh. “Why should I tell you?”

She felt a wave of dread. “I find it’s better to share my burdens. I’m not going to spill any secrets you tell me. Anyone who’s nice to Jarrod is forever in my good graces.”

He turned to stare at her. “I know. You’re a loving, caring sister.”

She didn’t dispute the truth, but worried about the sudden fatigue in his eyes.

“There’s no easy way to tell you this,” he said and his voice had a rough edge to it. In a defiant, yet almost frightened way, he stared her down, his eyes blazing to the center of her soul.

She waited, her body tensed for a blow.

Book Reviews

• "...a wonderful, intriguing story that focused on the importance of establishing an emotional bond between two amazing characters." ~ Lorien, Happily Ever After Reviews