“Honestly? I like what we have. It was only the wedding that made me start thinking about what we’re doing. We might not be dating, but we’re in a relationship, right? Have you been seeing anybody else? In the six months we’ve been working together?”

“No.”

“Neither have I. And we’re obviously a good fit. We’re both at that stage in life where we care more about our jobs than romance. And I’m not one of those women who wants you calling and texting all day long or sending me flowers. You know how hard I’m working to start my own firm, and I don’t need anything more than what you’re already giving me.”

He didn’t know that he was giving her much of anything. They’d never even gone on a date.

“But I wouldn’t mind doing more with you, you know? We get along. The sex is good.” She shrugged. “Like tonight, you’re having dinner with Ruby. I’d like to tag along, get to know her a little better. Why not, right?”

“Nah, that’s my time with her. She needs my full attention.”

His patio had a view into the kitchen. Rosie sat on the counter, laughing at something her bodyguard said. The other, younger, guy dumped a load of supplies beside her. Which meant she didn’t need Brodie to drive her back to the hotel. And he didn’t like that.

He watched her for a moment, thinking about what her friends had done to her. The tug in his heart surprised him. Rosie didn’t deserve that. She was a good person. Open, smart…she obviously cared deeply about her business. Who would fuck her over like that?

“You like her.” Vanessa’s voice tore him out of his thoughts.

A hot rush of embarrassment swept through him. “Sure. She’s got great ideas for Owl Hoot, and she’s doing something I’m not familiar with...something I find interesting. But she’s only here a few more days, so I want to make sure she has all the materials she needs and the time to get her work done.”

She reached for his fingers, grasping them loosely. “I like what we have, Brodie. Nothing needs to change, but I want you to know that if things were to change, I’d be open to it.” She got up on her toes, lips softening for a kiss.

But he wasn’t about to kiss Vanessa, not when the scent of Rosie still clung to his T-shirt.

This is bullshit. He liked what he had with Vanessa. As long as she didn’t expect more, it worked just fine. And, anyway, Rosie was leaving. She had nothing to do with it.

So, just make things clear. “I’m not looking for more, so if you’re not good with what we have…” He gauged her expression.