Page 27 of A King’s Obsession

“Where you from?”

“Rosemont.” She tilted her head, a small smile returning. “Which was on my résumé, by the way.”

“The interview is over,” I reminded her, enjoying how quickly her expression changed.

“Then why are you asking?” she questioned, narrowing her eyes.

“Trying to figure something out.”

“What?”

I leaned a little closer, keeping my eyes on hers. “You.”

That shut her up for a second, but not nearly long enough. She studied me like she was deciding whether I was serious before asking why.

“I ain't figured that part out yet,” I admitted, making her laugh softly.

“At least you're honest,” she said, relaxing against the booth.

“Usually,” I answered with a slight shrug.

Her eyebrows lifted. “Usually?”

“Depends who's asking.”

She laughed again, and when she shifted closer so she could hear me over the music, that damn scent hit me. Warm, sweet, clean. Whatever the fuck she had on had been bothering me all night, and now that she was sitting this close, I couldn't ignore it anymore.

“What the fuck you got on?” I asked, looking directly at her.

Jru pulled back slightly, her eyebrows drawing together. “What?”

“Whatever you're wearing. What is it?” I clarified, watching her expression change.

Her lips curved into a slow smile. “Why?”

“Because I've been smelling it all damn night,” I admitted, rubbing a hand over my beard.

Her smile grew wider, and I could tell she was enjoying herself. “You like it?”

“Too fucking much,” I answered before I could think better of it.

Jru laughed, shaking her head as she reached for her glass. I watched her take another sip, already irritated that she hadn't answered my question.

“So what is it?” I asked again.

“I'm not telling you,” she replied, setting her glass down with a satisfied little smile.

I frowned. “Why not?”

“Because now I know it bothers you,” she answered, looking entirely too pleased with herself.

“It don't bother me,” I argued, although the smile pulling at my mouth wasn't helping my case.

“That face says otherwise,” she teased, pointing toward me.

I shook my head, laughing despite myself. “You something else.”

“And you still ain't figured me out,” she reminded me, leaning back in her seat.