Talk to Me by Clare James Read Free Book Online Page A

anything to spend a night with an NHL player.
    Taking full advantage of those situations cost me the only woman I ever loved. But I was no longer that guy — no longer a fuck up — despite what my wild hair, flushed skin, and crazed eyes said in the mirror.
    I couldn’t help but wonder what I’d do if I were in Casey’s position.
    Fucking run, that’s what.
    Once again, I was back in a mess with someone I thought I could really care for. No, I didn’t really know her yet. Yes, I’d only seen her a few times. I knew it was crazy to be thinking this way, but there was just something about Casey Scott that made me want more.
    That was something my new lifestyle afforded me, clarity. I had moved out of the fog I was trapped in and the uncertainty I always felt. I was healthy, happy, and ready to move on. I was also finally ready to be with a woman again.
    For some unknown reason, I wanted it to be her.
    When I made it back into the kitchen, Casey was pacing. Her eyebrows pulled together, creating the most adorable crease on her forehead. Her jaw was tight. Still, she had the most beautiful glow to her. She was tousled and rumpled and a bit out of sorts. A little wild and a lot confused. It had me growing hard all over again.
    I moved slowly, uncertain at what she’d do. She hadn’t left, so I took that as a good sign. Honesty is what was needed. And hopefully she wouldn’t run out the door screaming. I had to salvage this, because I wanted another chance to do it right.
    Jesus, this girl was going to kill me.
    She stopped when I approached, her eyes still glued to the floor. I needed to dig deep and work my magic here.
    “Casey,” I said, slow and steady. I reached out for her, but before my hands made it to her skin, her open palm came flying at my face.
    Relying on instinct, I reached up and intercepted the strike before she connected with my flesh.
    “Shit,” I yelled, easing her hand down.
    “Do you want to tell me what the hell that was all about, asshole?” she growled, getting right up in my face.
    “I might remind you that you weren’t complaining at first,” I said in defense. Clearly, I didn’t think it through. Her violent hands and smart mouth seemed to bring out the worst in me.
    “I had no idea what was going on at first,” Casey said, her voice pinched. “It took my brain a second to catch up.”
    “Because your body liked what I was doing,” I said like the smug asshole she seemed to think I was.
    Shut the fuck up, Daley.
    Casey didn’t move. She didn’t alter her expression or say a word.
    I wasn’t sure where all this shit was coming from. I knew I was getting defensive and that wasn’t going to help me or my cause. Still, in that moment, I wanted her to admit that she liked what I did to her. I needed her to. Maybe because I would kill to do it again.
    “Are you sure you’re really not one of the girls?” I continued, simply to get a rise out of her.
    “I’m sure,” she spit. “Sorry to disappoint. Must be a huge letdown to learn all women were not created to fulfill all your sick fantasies. We’re not all — what do you call them — your escorts or whores?”
    There was that fire again.
    “Neither,” I said, closing my eyes. It was make or break time. “Sometimes girls like to come over here to, ah.” I couldn’t finish the thought. This went so much easier in my head.
    She flipped her wrist, her eyes burning into mine as she dared me say it.
    “You know where I’m going with this,” I said. “I don’t pay them and it’s nothing illegal. Trust me, they are very happy participants.”
    “I’m sure they are.” She rolled her eyes.
    “And how do I know you’re legit?” I pressed.
    “If I was coming here to seduce you, or whatever these girls come here to do, don’t you think I’d dress to impress? I’m not a supermodel, but I have more game than this.” She ran a hand along her crumpled sportswear.
    Damn, if she only knew.

Chapter 13
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