Temptation(20)

“Oh, by the way, you have Jessica scheduled in at 3pm, I didn’t know who she was or how to contact her so I was unable to cancel, also I didn’t cancel the 5 o’clock meeting either.”

“Don’t worry about Jessica, I’ll deal with her.” He obviously didn’t know Lucy had filled me in on who Jessica actually was, it was completely understandable that he would see a therapist, what he had been through was terrible. I didn’t question him any further about Jessica, if he was protecting his pride, then who was I to bring that protection down.

“So Alexis, did Lucy give you a tour when you were here last?”

“Yes, just briefly, your apartment is amazing, she mentioned she stayed here every now and again, which must be nice. She also mentioned you had a private elevator and an Observatory. It was only a quick tour, mainly just to familiarise me with yours truly so that I can do my job more efficiently.” I was sounding defensive, I really didn’t want him to think I was snooping around his place.

“And rightly so, you will need to get to know me very well in order to do your job properly, which is why I have configured your keycard to allow access to my apartment.”

“Oh, thanks.” Slightly confused I took another swig. Shit, access to his private residence.

“So what else has my darling sister told you about me?” He looked so laid back and with a touch of arrogance, he lounged back on his couch. It was this display that seemed to trigger my inner naughty Alexis.

“Who says she’s told me anything, I may have my own talent in creepy research!” I decided I’d mimic his relaxed position, so I wiggled back into the seat, crossed my legs and put one arm behind my head. Alexis, you probably look ridiculous!

His stare penetrated my body to its core, my heart started to pound, the physical and sexual tension in the space between us was immense. I noticed his free hand clench into a fist, then release again. What was I doing? I was beginning to understand just how much I was affecting him and possibly torturing him, this wasn’t me, I’m not normally like this. It’s just I can't help myself around him, I think he does this to me.

“Well lets hear it? Your creepy research that is.” His tension, eased!

“Ok, you are incredibly wealthy and innovative and have created an empire of luxurious Hotels worldwide. You’re 36 years of age, adore your sister and baby nephew. You have impeccable taste in décor. You are a Helicopter Pilot, Guitarist, Pianist, Astronomer and Martial Art Guru. You like to cook, conduct creepy research and you have an allergy to nuts!” He leaned forward and placed his empty glass on the coffee table between us.

“Is that all?” Grrrr, the arrogance of this man. I placed my empty glass down on the coffee table also.

“You suffered a devastating loss, when your parents and younger brother died in a car accident. You have an estranged relationship with your Uncle, yet seem to get along with his son. You are highly desirable by women all around you yet you remain single. Why? Because, you haven’t met your match yet!” I sat there frozen, Oh Fuck, did I just say all that? Shit, shit, he is going to have me thrown out. I stood straight up and put my hands to my mouth.

“Shit, I’m so sorry. I, I didn’t mean, Shit” I spun around and practically ran for the front door.

Seconds later I felt a hand on my arm and I was suddenly pinned against the entryway wall, he had both hands pressed against the wall on either side of my head.

“I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have said any of that, it was inappropriate and rude. I’m so sorry.” He looked directly into my eyes.

“Don’t be sorry, you were right, except for one thing, I have found my match.” He leaned in and kissed me passionately, he moved his hands from the wall and placed them on the sides of my face. I was momentarily stunned, my hands were splayed out on the wall behind me, at first I wanted to fight him off, but he tasted so good. He was a superb kisser, his lips were soft and his tongue was incredible, it possessed mine entirely, I opened my eyes, and pushed him back.

“Stop,” I whispered

“I can’t do this!” He didn’t argue, he rested his forehead on mine.

“I can’t do this Bryce. I’m married and I love my husband, I’m not the kind of person to cheat, ever” I fought back the tears, he moved aside to provide some space between us and put one hand in his hair and the other across his mouth.

“Shit, Alexis, I’m sorry. Fuck!” He turned away and headed for the kitchen. I stood there with my back against the wall for what seemed like eternity. What have I done? This is all your fault Alexis. You flirted with him knowing he had feelings for you. You crossed the line and lead him on. Now you have hurt him and fucked up your job. I pushed off the wall and cautiously entered the kitchen. Bryce was leaning against the bench with his head in his hands.