The Holly Project by K.A. Sterritt Page B

well, that depends on what it is,” I answered coyly.
    “Right,” he said, smirking. “Well I’ll ask anyway. Is there a reason you’re not interested in serious relationships?”
    His loaded question wiped the smile off my smug face.
    “Why are you asking me that?”
    “Classic deflection technique. Try again.” He folded his arms across his broad chest and leant back in his seat, smiling.
    “I’ve already told you. My career is really important to me. I want to focus on doing the best job possible for you. The lines are already blurred… It’s just too risky.” That was honest. It just wasn’t the whole truth.
    “I’ve only known you a week, but I think there’s more to it. Don’t get me wrong, I feel like I’ve hit the jackpot here. I’m just interested in your reasons.”
    “Do you want to tell me your reasons?” I asked, raising my eyebrows.
    “Not really.” He paused for a few seconds. “I’m more accustomed to women who want more than I’m willing to give. And yet, with you…”
    “With me… What?”
    “With you… Well, let’s just say I’ve never been so attracted to a woman before. I think about fucking you all the time.”
    My mind went blank. Well, that’s not entirely true. My mind went directly to graphic images of Ryan’s gloriously naked body pressed up against mine, doing unspeakable things to my willing body. No shock there.
    Before my brain got a chance to override my dirty thoughts, the waiter suggested we take our coffee at one of the outside tables. Perfect timing!
    The late afternoon sun was starting its descent over the eucalypt-covered hill behind the restaurant. It was getting colder and the light was fading fast. We sat down at one of the outdoor table settings as our coffees arrived.
    “Thank you so much for lunch.” I sipped my cappuccino gratefully, trying not to be awkward.
    “You’re very welcome, Ms Ashton.” He chuckled as he sipped on his own coffee.
    “What’s so funny?”
    “I just told you I want to fuck you and you’re in professional mode.”
    “Jesus Christ, Ryan. I have no idea what I’m doing here. Can you cut me some slack?”
    He stood up and reached for my hand. “Come on. It’s time for a tour.”
    When I stood up, he pulled me close. Our faces were inches apart. My breath hitched and my face flushed. My traitorous body leaned in towards him. Overruling it, I took a step back and headed for the path leading to the private beach. As I walked away, I took some composing deep breaths.
    Ryan caught up to me and grabbed my hand. I let him hold it as we walked the rest of the way to the sand. Why does it feel so natural to be holding hands?
    As we turned the corner at the end of the path, five stunning riverfront apartments came into view. My architect’s brain immediately kicked in.
    “Wow.” The apartments were gorgeous, blending seamlessly into the tree-covered hill behind them.
    Ryan pulled a key from his pocket when we got to the last one. “This is ours for the night, if you feel comfortable staying. No pressure.”
    After unlocking the door, he stood back so I could enter, pressing his hand lightly on my lower back. I hated how much I loved the intimate gesture. Part of me just wanted to find the bedroom and ravage him immediately.
    The unit epitomised understated luxury with a homely charm. The scent of fresh flowers mingled with the salty air from the river was an intoxicating blend. It made me feel a little light-headed. The architect in me appreciated the clean lines and sympathetic use of materials, which seemed to welcome the outside surrounds. The latest in sustainable technology had been employed wherever possible. I had already noted the rainwater tanks and solar panels on the other units. The layout made the most of cross-ventilation and the year-round sun. It was exactly the type of design I had described in my presentation, and I was thrilled to see such a beautiful example of sustainability in this incredible