This Time, Forever by Pamela Britton Read Free Book Online Page B

desk.
    â€œDon’t,” she said quickly.
    He glanced down at her in surprise, and now she was frowning up at him. “I can walk just fine.”
    Aha. She was the type of person that believed there was nothing wrong with them when, in fact, there was. “Just the same,” he said, “I’m going to walk you to your room.”
    â€œNo,” she said with a sharp shake of her head. “I do not need your assistance.” When she noticed him staring down skeptically, she added, “But I thank you kindly for your offer.”
    Linc nearly smiled. She sounded just like Scarlett O’Hara. And for a moment he found himself wondering what she’d look like with soft curls atop her head, maybe even a low-cut ball gown—
    And where the hell had that thought come from?
    â€œWhere’s your key?” he asked her.
    She shook her head—as if arguing with herself oversomething—then fished around in her purse and handed the thing over without a word.
    â€œI’m in the Flower Room,” Marley said.
    â€œI know,” Linc said. He’d heard the receptionist tell her that earlier.
    â€œCome on,” he said, lightly touching her arms.
    He led her toward a stairwell as wide as a car; plum-colored carpet padded their steps. He had to hold on to the banister at the same time he gripped her arm. She didn’t pull away this time, seeming to recognize that she needed some guidance. While she wasn’t drunk, she was definitely tipsy. Her hair had started to come loose. As if she’d scratched at it absently when he hadn’t been looking. The light brown strands swooped around her face gently, softening it. She had sweeping brows, the kind usually found on models or actresses. They framed her eyes in a way that highlighted their unique color.
    Now, now, Linc…keep your thoughts out of the gutter.
    Because he couldn’t help but admit that after today, he saw her in whole new light. She’d handled herself so professionally throughout the hours, and yet beneath the cool exterior he’d caught a glimpse of the headstrong youth she’d been years ago. When he looked back at that time, he had to admit he’d been amused by the whole situation. And, yes, secretly flattered. She was just a kid, but boy , had she ever had the hots for him.
    Did she still?
    Stop staring at her.
    He knew he should heed the voice. She was years younger than him. Too young. Plus, he doubted his new boss would welcome Linc getting involved with his kid sister. Just what he needed. To get off on the wrongfoot with Gil before his professional relationship with him even started. But he couldn’t deny that earlier, as they’d stood in the lobby below, there’d been a moment when he’d found himself wondering what it’d be like to touch her. Too bad he felt honor-bound to stay away from her.
    â€œHere we go,” he said, turning at the top of the stairs.
    You will not touch her.
    He knew he wouldn’t. Not that she appeared to have anything other than getting to her room on her mind.
    â€œWhich one is yours?” she asked.
    â€œI’m at the end of the hall. You’re right next door.”
    â€œOh,” she said.
    He opened the door for her, but she didn’t move once the green light beeped.
    â€œWhat is it?” he asked.
    She met his gaze then and Linc knew he was doomed.
    â€œDon’t go,” she said softly.
    â€œMarley—”
    â€œI saw the look in your eyes earlier,” she interjected.
    â€œThe one you tried so hard to conceal. You were thinking about what it’d be like to go to bed with me.”
    How the hell had she figured that out?
    â€œYou forget I’ve known you for years,” she said, seeming to read his mind…again. “And I’ve wondered the same thing, too, oh so many times.”
    He swallowed.
    She tipped her chin up. “I want to find out.”
    â€œNo,” he said.