Page 41 of Off Limits Mogul

“Buy the kimono set and everything else that fits.” It isn’t a suggestion. It’s an order.

She shrugs. “If you say so. You’re paying after all.” Her answer is flippant, dripping with effrontery and impertinence.

Keira always knew how to poke the bear in me.

I’m up for the challenge.

“Yes, I am.” I hold her gaze. “And I’m used to getting what I want.”

She blushes from ear to ear.

Chapter 10

Keira

“I’m used to getting what I want.”

Myriad stores later, and his words still ring in my ear.

When a guy tells you that while his heated gaze roams over your body, what does it mean?

I wish I could confide in someone.

I miss not being able to talk to Mikki every day.

“You didn’t buy enough clothes.” Rhys’s voice pulls me from my thoughts.

My gaze snaps to his. “You’re crazy. I got plenty of stuff.”

“You got casual outfits to hang out at my place with,” he says. “What about outfits for a dressy or formal evening?”

After half a day of shopping, we’re driving back to Manhattan Beach.

“No one knows I’m in LA. I doubt I’ll be getting invitations to chi-chi parties anytime soon.”

“What if I need someone to accompany me to an event?”

A snarky remark is on the tip of my tongue, but I suppress it. Instead, I channel softer, gentler Keira.

“I’m sure there’re no shortages of women who would die to hang from your arm.”

“What if I wantyouon my arm?” he says.

I’m not sure how to read into his admission.

“You can’t stay locked up in my house forever, Keira. You’ll have to show your pretty face at some point.” His words are a reminder I’m back in paparazzi land.

“You’re sure you want to be seen with me?”

“I’d be honored to be seen with you.”

“Does this have to do with your brotherly duties?” I don’t give him a chance to respond. “Don’t worry, I’ll make sure to tell Noah you’re taking good care of me.”

“This has nothing to do with your big brother.”

I shiver under his onceover. “Wouldn’t you want to be seen with someone whose star is rising? After freefalling out of space, my lackluster star is kind of floating sideways. I’m a has-been. It’s over for me. I committed the cardinal sin. I broke my recording contract.”

Rhys shoots me an unimpressed side-gaze. “If anyone knows anything about a comeback, it’s me,” he says. “After Dad’s death, I did a piss poor job of picking up the pieces of my shattered life. Falling on your knees isn’t the problem, Keira. Not getting up is. When the underdog triumphs, everyone stands up and cheers.”