Page 14 of Sweet (Chicago Underground 7)
“Fair enough, but my old firm was far more concerned about winning cases and making bank than following the law. It was about appearances. With Philip, everyone already assumes we’re doing the worst. In reality, most of it’s just ordinary business stuff. Pretty boring, typical things.”
“Like calling out competitors’ hiring practices.” My tone said I had no doubt that the information had been obtained through questionable means.
“For the good of the nation, Rose. We’re philanthropists, really.”
I laughed softly, then sobered. “Is everything okay there? Philip seems more stressed out than ever.”
“Yeah, he has more business than he knows what to do with, now that he’s picked up the contracts they dropped. But he’ll figure it out and come out stronger than ever, I’m sure. As for the other company, their assets will be tied up in legal proceedings for years.”
A strange shiver of foreboding ran down my spine. “Guess they’re pretty pissed.”
“They’re shitting bricks,” he agreed. “But they should’ve thought of that before they started trading on corporate secrets.”
Again the fear dug in its claws. “What if they try to retaliate?”
“Don’t worry,” he said softly. “Your brother can take care of himself. And really, if there’s any industry that should be safe and straightforward, it’s janitorial services.”
“Right,” I said, the word ringing hollow.
“Really.” His voice lowered. “I don’t want to talk about your brother anymore tonight.”
The deep promise in his voice distracted me. “What do you want to talk about?”
“Are you still wearing your dance clothes?”
“No, I showered after you left. I’m wearing a tank top.”
“Like the one I saw through the window?”
“Yes.”
“Take it off.”
I smiled at the arrogantly spoken command, sliding deeper under the covers. Sliding deeper into that drunk-on-lust headspace that he inspired whenever he was near me. Or whenever he was miles away, connected to me only by unseen airwaves. “That doesn’t sound like a strong argument, counselor.”
“The lawyer bit is the game. This one’s me.”
“Demanding?”
“Usually,” he answered evenly.
“Sex-obsessed?”
“Around you, yes.”
“Abrasive?”
“Never. That’s what the lube is for.”
A surprised laugh burst from me. I liked this side of him, playful. He was so serious at work, and that was the only time I saw him. I wanted more teasing, more sex banter. More fun in the middle of the night, preferably with us in the same bed. “I don’t know if I’m up for all that…you know, kinky stuff.”
“I’m not kinky. I just like to try new things out.”
“Which is different because?”
“Because I don’t need to do any of it. That’s just for fun. All I need to get off is to think about you. Taking your top off.”
“Ah, so we come back to my clothes.”
