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“I can’t leave yet. I’ve still got the report to finish.”

Eli looks at the files on my desk, then at Bryce.

“I can cover it. Take the night off.”

The offer is genuine, which makes refusing it harder.

A week ago, I would’ve been out of the door before Eli finished the sentence.

I want to take Bryce home. Sit him at the kitchen island. Return his keys and show him the Calder opposite his side of the bed.

I’d ravage his asshole and work him into a lust deprived frenzy all night long.

But that isn’t who I’m trying to become.

“I’ll finish the report first then head off for the night,” I tell Eli.

His gaze sharpens.

“Really? I never make the same offer twice, so make sure you’re certain. How long is it going to take?”

I shrug. “Maybe forty minutes.”

“I’m sure you’ll manage it in thirty.”

“It isn’t an auction.”

“Thirty-five. Final call.”

“Forty, Eli. I’m not a miracle worker.” I smirk. “Not all the time.”

Bryce glances at the reports on my desk.

“I can wait. I won’t interfere.”

Eli considers him. The inspection is concise but thorough.

“You haven’t seen the casino properly yet.”

“Not particularly, no.”

“Come with me. I’ll show you around while Jack finishes up.”

Bryce looks towards me. The question is in his eyes as to whether he should follow. He doesn’t want to be sent away, just as I don’t want him to leave.

But I need to finish this report.

“Go,” I say to him. “Eli gives excellent tours. Very informative. Utterly devoid of joy.”

“Shut up, Jack,” Eli says, with a genuine smile. One of very few.

“I’ll be here when you get back,” I tell Bryce. “Forty minutes, tops.”

His expression softens.

“Alright. A tour sounds good.”

Eli steps aside to let him pass.