Worth the Risk by Robin Bielman Page B

never plan around that. And because of his integrity, he’d never put anyone in the position of second best.
    “How many projects have you got?” she asked, giving in to her curiosity about his new company. There wasn’t anyone she held in higher regard than Dean, and if their situation were different, she’d want to learn everything she could from him.
    “Four, with two on the horizon. We’re a small fish in a big sea right now, but that will change eventually. It took my dad almost twenty years to reach the notoriety he’s got. With a staff of ten and a handful of field project managers, we plan to grow slowly. My dad taught me patience is a virtue. I’m taking that to heart.”
    Samantha threw a challenge at him, knowing he could handle it. “So you think you’re capable of handling Route 66 better than Global?”
    “I don’t think. I know.”
    “Jumping in feet first can land you on your ass.” She shifted in her seat, trying to mentally and physically put distance between them. If her company didn’t get the contract, would it give her some comfort to know she’d lost to Dean? She wanted him to succeed. But was it despicable of her to wish he didn’t this time?
    “Darlin’, I do some of my best work on my ass,” he said, waggling his eyebrows at her.
    She knew that to be true. But his words reminded her of memories she’d best not think about if she planned to make a quick getaway.

Chapter 9
     
    They pulled into the loop that led to the valet in front of the hotel. “Thanks again for everything, Dean. I’ve had a great time.”
    “I’ve got a couple of hours before I need to head to my parents’ place. Why don’t I see you to your room? Help you with all those bags?” The sound of his voice carried so much appeal and charm that she’d need earplugs of steel to remain immune.
    “That’s not necessary,” she answered, mustering every ounce of strength she had left. It seemed to her she’d said that a lot this weekend.
    “I know it’s not necessary . I…I…oh, hell, I want to spend a little more time with you, Sam.”
    His vulnerability shot straight to her heart, upping the beats per minute. Would he have as much difficulty as she would when they parted?
    “Dean—”
    “Or I could come by after dinner?” He cast an optimistic glance her way, that sparkle in his eyes rendering her helpless. One more night with Dean was all she’d get. Foolish as it was, she wanted to take it.
    “Okay.”
    “Great. It’s all decided, then. I’ll come on up and shower, and then be back later.” He looked straight ahead, but she could see the irresistible smile in his profile.
    What?
    And why did she find herself agreeing? Bad body.
    “Just what are you implying, Mr. Malloy?” Flutters took hold of her stomach and her breath caught thinking about what they were about to do. Acting on the fierce sexual pull between them was the only way to purge Dean from her every waking thought.
    She hoped.
    “I’m implying I need someone to wash my back.” He laced his fingers through hers as they pulled to a stop in front of the hotel lobby. “And I seem to remember you were pretty good with a bar of soap.”
    “It would be my pleasure.” Yes, she’d lost her mind.
    “I’ll see to that.”
    Ten minutes later they entered her hotel room. Samantha told herself not to get too caught up in Dean’s tropical-island scent or the crazy thoughts running through her head. She wouldn’t turn away from the dangerous consequences that being with him for a few more hours created.
    She dropped her bags on the bed and twisted to find him studying her. For a long moment they drank each other in, as if they both knew there was nothing ordinary about the attraction between them but were afraid to make the first move or say the right thing to take it further.
    Then he strode toward her, his intense and determined expression stealing her breath.
    Something was different when he gently caressed her back and started to