He shrugged. “I wouldn’t say I’m past it. But I am pragmatic. At least now I am. Last time we were together, I expected more from you than you could give. This time I know what’s possible and what isn’t. I know we can be together while you’re here filming and part ways when it’s time for you to leave. Except this time, we’ll be friends when things end.”

Friends. Part ways.

His words made perfect sense given the differences between their lifestyles, careers, and the fact that she lived across the country. So why the painful churning in her stomach and disappointment that settled in her chest? She pushed aside those feelings and focused on the present and the things she could control.

“Well?” he asked.

She leaned closer. “I want you, too,” she said, staring into eyes that darkened behind the glasses.

She lifted the frames and slid them off his face, placing them on the table. Now she could look into his gorgeous gaze that was deepening with every second that passed.

Taking her off guard, he reached out and pulled her onto his lap, so she straddled his strong thighs. There was only soft material between her sex and his thick erection, and she couldn’t contain the moan that escaped at the feel of him exactly where she needed pressure the most.

He gripped the back of her neck and drew her close until his mouth met hers. Desire swept through her, and she clenched her thighs around him, letting the brief wave of sensation wash over her. She swirled her tongue around his, and his mouth glided over hers, taking, demanding. Certain. Because this time he’d thought things through. He knew what he wanted and he was showing her.

It. Was. Glorious.

He nipped at her bottom lip and she rocked her hips, creating the friction her body needed. His fingers combed through her hair, and he pulled off the scrunchie, tossing it onto the floor. Her damp hair tumbled over her shoulders, and he wound the long strands around his hand, tugging until she tilted her head, giving him deeper access.

“Fuck, you taste good,” he said, his thumb running over the pulse point in her neck, a move he followed with his tongue gliding over her skin.

Desire rippled through her, her underwear slick and wet. She grabbed the hem of his shirt and slipped her hands beneath, settling her palms on his muscular chest. “You feel good,” she murmured into his mouth.

“So do you. I don’t know where to touch first. Here?” The pad of his thumb slid over her bottom lip. “Or here?” He slipped one hand beneath her dress and held her waist in his hand. “Or here?” His talented fingers eased downward until his palm cupped her sex in his large hand.

“Hey, kids! I’m here to help set up for the barbeque… Oh, shit. Sorry!” Dash’s voice interrupted them and Sasha broke the kiss.