Page 144 of Power Play

I laughed despite myself. “He looks ridiculous.”

“You wanted him.”

“I love him.”

“Great. I’ve been replaced.”

“You had a good run.”

Ryan turned, and the smile on his face softened when he saw me.

The apartment was quiet around us without headlights, strangers, or anyone watching. My heartbeat picked up again as Ryan came closer and settled his hands around my waist.

I waited for him to kiss me.

His mouth moved over mine slowly and tenderly, carrying none of the hunger from the parking lot. The gentleness scared me more because I couldn’t tell whether he was protecting me, protecting himself, or trying to prove that nothing had changed.

I wrapped my arms around his neck and tried to deepen the kiss. Ryan let me for a few seconds before slowing me again.

Something inside me cracked, and I pulled back.

“You should go.”

His brows drew together. “What?”

“You have to leave early.”

“I’m aware.”

“You should sleep.”

Ryan stared at me while I smiled because that was what I did when I needed a conversation to end before someone discovered how badly I was losing control.

“Tonight was perfect.”

His hands stayed at my waist. “Charm, what just happened?”

“Nothing happened.”

“Bullshit.”

My stomach tightened. “I’m tired.”

“You’ve been tired before.”

“I don’t know what you want me to say.”

“The truth would be a start.”

I looked away.

Ryan’s fingers flexed against my waist before he released me, and the loss made my chest ache immediately.

“You had fun tonight?”

“Yes.”

“Were you comfortable with me?”