My fists clenched at my sides. Suddenly, food was the last thing I hungered for, but I would not cave to her bold attempts. This wasn’t the first time I’d been hit on by a member of my staff. I might be known as an asshole, but that hadn’t deterred a brave few.

All of whom, I had easily turned down.

This one though…

I took another glance as her eyes followed me. I could see the smirk forming at the corner of her pouty red lips. Lips I knew would feel goddamn perfect around cock.

Fuck.

I wasn’t above one-night stands. Hell, they were my definition of a normal, healthy relationship, but none of them ever involved an employee. I’d learned early on to keep my dick out of business, and unfortunately, that rule still remained firmly intact.

“Well, I appreciate the sentiment, but I really do have to be going,” I announced firmly, sidestepping her, as she rose from her spot on the bench to stop me.

“I knew you’d say no to the baby shower,” she said, the smirk on her face growing to a full-out grin.

“Then, why did you bother asking?” I asked curtly.

“I guess I was hoping you’d surprise me.”

“And now?” I asked.

“I guess I was hoping for the same,” she simply stated, taking a step closer. I could feel the heat from her body radiating off her smooth tan skin. “I was hoping for a surprise.”

As my jaw twitched in restraint, I purposely stepped back. Taking a full breath, I tried to ignore the soft jasmine scent that encompassed her.

“Keep waiting,” I answered, finally walking away.

The doors swung behind me as I exited the building. Fresh, cool air hit my face, clearing my senses and reaffirming my decision to leave her behind.

No good could come from falling in bed with an employee.

Chapter Two

“Why do I feel like the new kid, getting ready for her first day at a new school?” I called out to my boyfriend of eight years as I stood in front of the tiny bathroom mirror, fidgeting with my hair for the tenth time.

“Are you sick to your stomach, nervous yet a bit excited at the same time?” Tyler asked, peeking his head out of the shower.

Tiny water droplets dripped down his face and his chin as he grinned mischievously. Our New York apartment was the size of a shoebox for a toddler, and his nose nearly touched my shoulder in the confined space.

“Yes,” I answered, a cheesy smile plastered across my porcelain face, as I stared back at my reflection.

I’d already done my makeup, opting for the less-is-more strategy. A few swipes of the mascara brush and a little blush—that was all I needed. Being blessed with clear skin since I was a baby, there was no reason to hide it.