Illusion (Billionaire in Disguise 2)

“Sam, sleeping with a client introduces an entirely new set of emotions. I’m not saying you’re compromised, but I am saying your attachment to him might be forcing you to draw conclusions that aren’t there or perceive threats that aren’t there.”

“Then let me ask you this. When have we ever left a job before the perpetrator was caught?”

The silence on the other end of the line answered my question.

“Exactly. This client is no different. Derek is no different. We stay until Jacob is found, we do a further threat assessment, and then we leave like we always do it,” I said.

“Look, I’m surprised you’re even doing it. I know you’ve had men offer, and I’ve watched you turn them all down. I’m not complaining, but you’ll find me playing Devil’s Advocate more. As your second in command, it’s my job to make sure all your decisions are sound, logical ones. That’ll be more important than ever now.”

“It’s only some fun. I’m not attached,” I said.

“Sam, you wanna talk honestly for a minute? I’m glad you’re gettin’ some. You’re too wound up, and you deserve some attention. But if this is as serious as you say, then I have to assess all the avenues as well. If I approach this as if you’re emotionally compromised, then every step we take from here on out will always be the right one. You’ll be annoyed. You’ll be pissed. But every step will be logical like they should be.”

“This your way of warning me to be careful?” I asked.

“It is. You could get distracted, and something could go horribly wrong. You know that. And if you’re really that worried about Jacob coming back, then that’s a problem we have to stick around for.”

“Glad we took that really roundabout way to figure that out at ten o’clock at night,” I said.

“Just keep all of this in mind when it comes to me. We haven’t guarded any hot women in a while, so it’ll be your turn to level the playing field with the next job we take.”

“You’re insane,” I said with a grin.

“What? I could use a hot sugar mama on my arm for a bit. On a personal note, I’m happy for you. On a professional note, I’m worried, and you can’t blame me for that.”

“No, I can’t because I’m worried about it too.”

“Wanna talk about it?”

“Got any more men over there halfway in the grave because of pesticides?” I asked.

“Not that I can see. They’re tough. They’ll be okay. What’s on your mind?”

“I’m worried about being emotionally compromised. I mean, I don’t love the man or anything, but the attention is nice. And you’re right. Derek as well. Both of you have pointed out to me that I could’ve easily shoved him out of the way but didn’t. I’m concerned that being with him ...”

I felt my face flush as John chuckled over the phone.

“Embarrassed to say you’re having sex?” he asked.

“Stop it.”

“You’re having sex, Sam. Penis in vagina sex.”

“I’m gonna kill you.”

“Naked body against yours sex.”

“Seriously, I’m taking my gun off my hip right now.”

“Muscles against smooth skin sex.”

“I can see you through the scope of my rifle,” I said.

“You don’t have your rifle in the house.”

“Wanna bet?” I asked.

“Fine. Then what hat am I wearing, Miss Sweaty Sheets?”