She stared at him across the table. He was sensationally attractive, those eyes dark as flint in a face where every line and angle spoke of strength and masculinity. The air was alive with a tension she had only ever experienced around this man.

The sexual energy was palpable, and by the time they returned to his apartment, she was feeling light-headed from a heady mixture of wine and anticipation.

He found his keys, opened the door and flicked a switch that turned on a couple of lamps and sent a warm glow over the spacious room.

“It’s late,” she murmured. “I should probably go home.” Because she was nervous, she walked to the window, and he threw his keys down on a small table near the door and followed her.

“Is that what you want?” He stood behind her, and his hands closed over her arms.

She closed her eyes. “It would be sensible.”

“And do you always do what’s sensible?”

“Always. I like order and predictability. I’m only interested in things I can control.” She kept her eyes forward, staring into the darkness of the bay. Lights from boats sent a warm glow flickering across the water. “With you, I feel out of control. As if I’ve lost my balance.”

“Good.” He moved her hair aside gently, and she could feel the warmth of his breath on the back of her neck. “I’m pleased I unbalance you.”

“I’m worried the reality will be a letdown.”

“It won’t be.” He turned her to face him. His gaze was slumberous, and all she saw in his eyes was liquid desire that mirrored hers. “Are you nervous?”

“Yes. I don’t feel any of the right things when I’m in bed with a man. It’s as if something inside me isn’t switched on.”

His smile was slow and sure. “Maybe it’s a question of knowing where to find the switch. Why don’t you leave that part to me?”

“I think there might be something wrong with me.”

“Honey, there’s nothing wrong with you. I have surveillance footage that proves it.”

She thought about that night in the pool and leaned her forehead against his chest. “I thought you said it would be wiped.”

“After sixty days.” His fingers gently massaged her hair. “So for the next few weeks I have visual evidence that you’re not who you think you are. Or we could try a different way to prove the same thing.”

Her heart was pounding so fast she felt sure he must be able to feel it. “Are you always so sure about everything?”