“I do know that the Cahills are vindictive and ruthless. If you like your job, just do what you’re supposed to do and leave it at that.”
She dropped her arms. Turning away, she waved a hand at him. “Whatever.”
He followed her back to her car behind the Rose. She pulled keys from her pocket and unlocked the door. “Are you okay to drive home?”
“I’m fine, Ronan. I had one beer. I drive home every night.” She didn’t even turn to look at him. She swung the door open, but he braced a hand on it to stop her. She finally looked up. “What?”
“Thank you.”
She softened a little. “For the record, the Cahills don’t pay my check. Alastair Byrne does. I know the power the Cahills wield. I’m not stupid.”
“I wasn’t suggesting you are. Just naïve.”
“I’m not naïve either. I wish you would stop looking at me like I’m a child.”
“What do you want from me, Chloe?”
How could he not see?Determined to show him, she surged up and her lips met his. She gripped his T-shirt tightly in her fists. Her tongue stroked his lips tentatively, afraid he’d push her away, but he opened and kissed her back.
Her heart thudded. He was everything she’d thought he’d be—strong yet gentle, determined and questing. His tongue stroked hers. His beard bristled against her lips in delicious friction. His mouth lingered on hers for long moments.
Gently, he pulled her hands to release his shirt.
When she opened her eyes and met his, he said, “This isn’t going to happen, Chloe.”
“Why the hell not? We’re attracted to each other. That kiss says you want it as much as I do.”
“I’m not what you’re looking for. We both know that.”
“I disagree. You have no idea what I want.” Hell, I don’t even know. “I’m not asking you to marry me. Just fuck me.”
The words didn’t seem to have an effect. No look of shock. He chuffed and stepped back so she could get in her car. Shaking her head, she got behind the wheel.
“Good night, Chloe. Drive safe.” He closed the door.
As she pulled away, she was filled with frustration. He continued to think she was playing a game, and she didn’t know how to change that. Maybe she never would. She was not so pathetic that she’d chase a man who didn’t want to want her.