I grab my notebook and start yet another list. Maybe I should keep it on the computer, or my phone, but nothing organizes my brain like old-fashioned pen to paper.
My mind is already spinning. At least I have a distraction from Caden. I glance at him. “All right, you’re up. What do you need?”
His gaze narrows, and he stares at me for so long I shift in my seat under his scrutiny.
I furrow my brow. “What?”
He shakes his head. “Why did you agree to that?”
“Agree to what?” I wave. “That’s my job. We’re opening a restaurant, or hadn’t you heard?”
“That’s not what I’m asking.”
I don’t like where he’s going. It’s too close to the truth I don’t want to think about. “Consider me confused then.”
“Why did you agree to have all those people in your house when it’s clear that’s not what you want?” His tone isn’t sharp, but it lands like a rebuke.
“What exactly am I supposed to do?” My fingers tighten on my pen. “It’s not my house.”
“No? Your name isn’t on the deed along with your brothers’?”
It is, and until right this second it didn’t occur to me that I don’t consider it mine. Another thing I don’t want to think about.
I shrug. “It will be fine.”
“You’ll handle it. You always do, but that’s not really the question on the table.”
My irritation rises. He’s adding to my stress, and I’m already anxious enough with all the things I’ve got to do. “These are the kinds of things that happen when you share a house with people. It’s not a big deal.”
He studies me in that judging, watchful way he has. “I’m just suggesting you should have a say.”
“This is a big deal for Jackson and Gwen. I’ll adjust, and it’s only for a few days.” I blow out a hard breath. “So, what did you need?”
He frowns. “Nothing.”
“Well, if you don’t mind.” I point at the door. “As you heard, I have a lot to take care of.”
He stands and walks to the door, but instead of continuing through it, he shuts it and flicks the lock before turning back to me.
“What are you doing?” My words are breathless.
He stalks over to me, hauls me to my feet, and before I can speak, his lips meet mine. His mouth is hot, hard.
All thoughts of irritation and resistance fade into the background as his arms come around me, his large palms settling on my ass.
He squeezes, and I rise to my tiptoes, my body flush against his. He pulls me closer, his head tilting to deepen the contact.
His tongue slides, tangling with mine.
As much as I want to kill him most of the time, he makes me forget everything but him.
My arms curl around his neck.
We break apart.
Breathe harshly.
Then press together again.