Page 5 of Rockstar Retreat

“Maybe,” he muttered, “but you need this job, don’t you? I don’t need to be here. I could probably talk my way out of staying, but what happens to you, hmm?”

I scowled at him. I would be out of a job, for one thing, and I would be out of a home. I’d have to move somewhere else, look for another job, start anew.

“Jerrik, look. I’m asking for a favor, and I know you don’t have to listen to me, but please don’t mention to anyone that we knew each other before today. It would only bring up questions that neither of us want to be asked.”

His lips pursed, and I felt a spike of anger go through my chest. If he didn’t listen to me, what could I do? I didn’t want to start packing to leave. The anger burned in my chest, resentment mingled with it as I felt my hands begin to shake. Why did he have to come here and ruin things for me in the first place?

“What will you give me?” He asked it like a naughty child, one that thought he was being cute.

I scoffed as I looked at him. Did he really think that would work? The anger began to fade away and made space for my confusion as I blinked at him.

“Excuse me?”

He took another step forward, and I took one back instinctively. We repeated the dance, until I felt my back hit a wall, and I jumped in surprise. Jerrik stood in front of me, not touching but a little too close for comfort.

“I’m just wondering what this job of yours is worth to you. See, I didn’t want to come here, I was told to come here. Now, I’d like to have a little fun during my stay, or I’ll probably die of boredom.”

“There’s plenty to do around here; you don’t have to be bored,” I said quickly, deliberately side-stepping his meaning.

A slow smile grew on his face, and I hated to admit it, but he was attractive, and that smile only made him even more so. His brown eyes gave me a look I could only describe as one of desire, and I felt my breath hitch in my throat. He leaned closer so I could feel his minty breath wash over my face, and all I could look at were those eyes.

“That is true, there’s plenty to do. But do you want to know what I want?” he murmured, turning on his charm. His body inched just a little closer to mine, and I could feel his warmth. “I’d like to have you in my bed, doing some not so innocent things. I’ve always wanted you, Sharon. Want to give me a chance?”

My body trembled because of his nearness, that look in his eyes and the tone of his voice, low and husky. I’d always wanted him too, but I’d never admit it. Not to him.

I wasn’t that easy.

I pressed my hand to his chest and gently pushed him back. His eyes widened a little in surprise, but he backed up, and I moved quickly away from the wall.

“We are not doing that, Jerrik,” I said point blank. “And now, if you don’t mind, I have work to do.”

I turned my back on him and made my way back to the front desk and sanity.