He reached up and gently took her chin in his hand. The temptation to lean down and take her mouth--long and hard—was almost overwhelming. But all he had to do was think back to his one and only one-night stand, back in college, to strengthen his resolve. He had fully expected that night to lead somewhere…but it hadn’t. It had left him feeling hollow and empty.
However, Colton had a more important reason for his decision tonight, one he was about to give her now. “You deserve more, Kelly. More than to be tossed aside when the night is over.”
“Excuse me?”
He was certain she heard him, but she evidently wanted him to repeat what he said. “I said, you deserve more.”
The glare in her eyes deepened. “What right do you have to tell me what I deserve. I deserve whatever I want. And I wantyou!But I’m not about to beg a man to make love to me if he doesn’t want to.”
He frowned. “I didn’t say that I didn’t want to make love to you. Because I do.”
“Then what’s stopping you?”
“You’re stopping me, Kelly. I won’t treat you like that. You deserve more…with me, or any man.”
“But that’s all I want,” she snapped. “I told you that I don’t have time for more.”
“Then, I’m not your man. Because if I was, you’d want more,” he said.
Knowing he had to leave before he did something he’d regret…like sweep her in his arms, take her to the bedroom, remove that barely-there outfit, and make love to her, he said, “This suite is yours to enjoy for the rest of the weekend, Kelly. Order whatever incidentals you desire. Stay an additional day if you like.” He placed a business card on the table. “And here’s the number to call for the private car service when you’re ready to leave.”
And then he walked out the door.
CHAPTER 2
Two years later
A huge smile touched the corners of Colton Masters’ face. His cousin had contacted him earlier in the week, telling him about his decision to open a third office. Lake Masters was an incredible CEO of the company, and Colton was thoroughly enjoying his work alongside him as his COO.
Lake had started Masters Unlimited Corporation right out of college and now employed well over a thousand people. The corporation had two offices--one in Boston and the other in Orlando. Lake operated the one in Orlando, and Colton was in charge of the one in Boston. However, now it seemed as if the long-talked-about opening of a third office would soon become a reality.
Lake had arrived in Boston that morning to meet with him to discuss it further. “Have you selected the location for the third office?” Colton asked, unable to contain the excitement that he’d been feeling since Lake had made the decision.
“No, and this is where you come in. I’ve narrowed it down to Los Angeles or New York City, and I’ve hired a consulting agency to help in the selection process. I need you to work closely with the agency’s owner to ensure we choose the right city, which will entail spending time in both places and checking them out thoroughly.”
Colton nodded. “That’s no problem. Who is the owner?”
“Kelly Perkins of KP Consulting Agency. They are based in Atlanta.”
“Kelly Perkins?” Colton asked, trying not to sound as thunderstruck as he suddenly felt.
“Yes. Have you heard of her company?” Lake asked.
“Kelly and I met a few years ago at the Bennetts’ double wedding. She’s Monica Bennett-Chestnut’s half-sister,” he said, unsure if Lake knew the connection. His cousin’s next word was a sure indication that he hadn’t.
“I know Monica, since Quinn and Grey are married to Alexia and Brandy, and Tez is married to Victoria. Whenever there’s a Bennett family get-together, we’re usually invited. However, Courtney and I haven’t attended any events in years because of Lakelyn’s busy tennis schedule.”
Lake’s daughter, Lakelyn, along with Lake’s oldest brother Shane’s daughter, Shaniya--both fourteen years of age--had become professional tennis players. After years of participating on the junior circuit in the public realm, they would compete in their first pro-tournament this summer. Colton knew Lake was a proud father and uncle.
Once the shock wore off, Colton decided there was no need to tell Lake just how far his and Kelly’s acquaintance went. “How did you decide on this particular agency? She’s relatively new, right?” Colton asked.
“Yes, but she was highly recommended. A number of well-known and more established agencies were considered; however, my decision was based on recommendations from people I know and trust, as well as Ms. Perkins’ track record, which I found impressive. What I admire about KP Consulting Agency is the way Ms. Perkins has managed to make a name for herself in just two short years. Her agency’s reputation is outstanding, and she has proven to deliver results.”
There was no doubt in Colton’s mind that Kelly had worked hard to acquire those achievements. He knew, personally, of the sacrifices she’d been willing to make in order get where she was.The last time he saw her, she’d told him that she could only focus on one task at a time. That meant her consulting firm had been her sole concentration for the past two years, and it had paid off. He couldn’t help but be proud of her.
Suddenly, he was reminded of something Lake had said. “You want me to work closely with her? And that would include us visiting LA and New York City?”
“Yes. An expansion to another city is a big undertaking for this company, Colt, and is of vital importance. I don’t want to hand such a major move off to any of the junior executives.” He paused a moment then added, “However, I’ve advised Sherelle Telfair to assist you, but only if you need her. It will be your call.”
