Read Online Pull Me Closer (Suits in Pursuit) by Lauren H. Kelley - Free Book Online Page A

His reply was slow. Husky. Deliberate. “I’ve never been more certain of anything. I want you.”
    Cheeks reddening, she blinked rapidly and twisted her fidgety hands together on the table .
    “Besides, I’ll be there supporting you. You have exceptional talent and tremendous potential. This is good for your growth as an account manager. I believe in you. I’ll always be there for you.”
    Her crossed leg bounced up and down in a jerky movement . “Mr. Christensen … Axel thanks for your support and belief in me. This is an exciting opportunity. I won’t let you down.” Her voice pitched.
    P lacing his hand on hers, he stroked her gently. “You’re welcome. It’s well deserved, and you’ll be great. Now that business is out of the way, we can talk about other things.”
    With eyes riveted on his hand resting on hers, she bounced her leg more frantically. He knew this simple act would affect her, but he also sensed her apprehension.
    He lifted his hand away. “For starters, I thought we agreed that you’d call me Axel. Mr. Christensen sounds too formal. I want to you be comfortable with me.”
    “Sorry. Old habits die hard.” A strong wind blew wisps of her long hair across her face.
    “Good.” He said, the thin line across his face fading into a smile.
    Moments later, a rustling sound drew Axel’s attention. The bearded deliveryman approached carrying a white canvas tote and plastic bag. He placed sandwiches and bottles of water on the table and left after Axel tipped and thanked him.
    “Now tell me, you work so hard, what do you do for fun?”
    She took a swig of water. “Oh. I’m truly boring, actually. I enjoy reading a good book. I love outdoor activities like hiking, boating and biking. There’s something magical about being under the open sky. Sometimes, I catch a concert or play—pretty typical stuff.”
    “There’s nothing boring about you. I love the outdoors too. I mostly go hiking or bike. What about your friends? You didn’t mention doing things with them.” He wondered if Kerrigan had a boyfriend or if she was seeing anyone.
    She twirled a long strand of hair between nervous fingers . “I’m sort of a loner. I have a few close friends, Ashley for one. She likes to hang out at bars and clubs, but that just isn’t my scene. I go to provide moral support mostly, and usually I’m the designated driver. I’m not into drunken men hitting on me.”
    “Yeah, bars and clubs can be obnoxious. I’m not into drunken men hitting on me either.” He joked, trying to break the tension. She giggled. “I’m somewhat of a loner too. I prefer to spend quality time with people that mean something to me. That’s a very short list.” He paused, looking into her eyes. “You’d make that list Kerrigan.”
    “The newspaper sure makes it seem like you’re out clubbing every night and charming the ladies.” She said.
    T roubled by the accusation, his smile inverted, and his eyebrows made a sharp downward arrow.
    He shook his head. “ You shouldn’t believe everything you read. The thought of me charming the ladies as you put it, does that bother you?”
    “Why should that bother me? What you do in your personal life is none of my business.” She shrugged her shoulders unconvincingly.
    He stared directly into her eyes, without as much as a smile. “You brought up the women, so I thought they meant something to you. Just to be clear, the media reports shouldn’t upset you, especially because they aren’t true.” She dared to go down that road with him, and he wasn’t backing off now. “You should know that I’m a one-woman man, despite what you may have heard or read or think you know about me.”
    “Good to know,” s he said. She was wise to limit her reply and not to goad him further.
    “Is that so?” His brow raised, he bit into his sandwich and chewed slowly.
    “Yes. I can only imagine how exhaust ed you would be living up to that reputation. I’m relieved to know that my boss