“You condescending prick. Do you feel threatened by my skills and the fact I could have you on your back on the floor before you even blink?”

Her words infuriate me, and I spin around to face her. “Oh, don’t flatter yourself. If you want to get down and dirty just say so. I’ll be happy to oblige.” And if I hadn’t turned around to say my piece then I never would have seen the very slight reaction from her at the thought of sleeping with me.

Initially, I thought she was turned on by my words, but then I worked out it was a twitch of anger.

“Just go, Forrest. We’ll continue to be civil in everyone’s company but don’t think it will be any more than that. Good night.” The door swings toward me, making me step backward until I’m out in the corridor again and the door slams in my face.

Fuck!

Standing outside the door and staring at the black-stained wood, I know I’ve just made this worse. Because come hell or high water, she won’t back down now just on principle to make a point.

That night is still as clear as anything in my head, even more than six months since it happened. Thankfully she got over how angry she was at me that night, and we have managed to interact without killing each other. Probably due to not seeing her too often at first, but once the charity opened its doors, she had no choice but to spend time with me in board meetings, as I am the financial officer.

So, knowing she will be here tonight, along with Harper who is also probably still pissed at my highhandedness the other night, I could be in for a real fight if the two of them have a few drinks and decide to gang up on me. Although alcohol usually brings out Harper’s flirting, so the night could be interesting.

Why can’t I find a woman who likes me the way I am? Sure, I can be an arrogant prick, but with the right woman, I would give her the world, including the key to my heart which would show her I’m not like that all the time. I’ve just never found anyone who could manage to get past my harsh exterior and be bothered to know the real me.

The elevator doors open to Flynn standing there in bare feet, jeans, and an untucked burgundy button-up shirt. I can hear laughter in the background, and I know this is what I need tonight. My friends, a few beers, and some good laughs. When we are together in social situations, work discussions are banned unless vitally necessary, and that’s why I think our friendship is so strong.