Page 110 of Say My Name

“I had sex with you on your desk after you dismissed Maya, locked the door, and told me exactly what you wanted. Which part was professional?”

“The setting.”

His mouth almost curves, but the humor vanishes before it becomes a smile.

“You’ll joke about the office. You’ll admit the sex was good. You’ll even tell me exactly how you want me to touch you while it’s happening.” He rests one hand on the back of his chair. “Why can’t you admit you desire me when we’re both fully dressed?”

“I have admitted I enjoy having sex with you.”

“That isn’t what I asked.”

“I’m not sure why the wording matters this much.”

“It matters because you keep describing me as useful.”

My arms loosen.

“I have never called you useful.” Not in that word, no. But the accusation lands with the weight of truth.

“You don’t have to use the word.”

“Then tell me what I’ve said.”

“That sex with me is effective for conception. That orgasms reduce stress. That the old-fashioned method is more enjoyable than the clinic.” His voice stays controlled, but an edge of hurt cuts through the composure. “You can explain every reason you choose me except wanting me.”

“I do enjoy the sex.”

“I know.”

“And yes, orgasms reduce stress. That’s a documented physiological response, not an insult.”

“Jesus Christ, Elena.”

“What?”

“I don’t want a performance review.”

“That isn’t what I’m giving you.”

“It sounds exactly like one.”

I turn toward the windows. The lights from the surrounding buildings shine against the glass, broken by faint reflections of Dominic’s office furniture.

He comes around the desk but doesn’t approach me.

“Do you desire me,” he asks, “or do you value what I can provide?”

The question is too direct to deflect with another joke.

“That’s an artificial distinction.” I can feel my pulse in my throat.

“No, it isn’t.”

“You offered to be the father of my child. Of course what you can provide matters.”

“Sex. Sperm. Safety. Reliable co-parenting,” he names each one in the same controlled tone. “I meet every requirement you had for a donor.”

“You aren’t a donor.”