Page 70 of Cole's Command
Chapter Twenty-Three
Cole
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“THERE’S NOTHING YOU could tell me that would mean I don’t want to see you.” After everything he had disclosed to Eden, how could she even think so?
“You’re kind.” Her smile was sad. “But you don’t know me.”
“So, tell me.” He sensed his impatience growing.
“Do you mind if we talk out of here?” She glanced around the bedroom. “I can’t think straight on the bed where you just...” Her voice trailed away, but her naughty smile told him everything he needed to know.
“Sure,” he replied. “I have a couple of robes if you want to borrow one?”
“Can’t I just get dressed?” Her tone was sardonic.
“No way, little girl,” he growled, leaning closer for dramatic effect. “I haven’t finished with you yet.”
“Oh, right.” She giggled anxiously. How is he so damn hot? “Well, if that’s the case then, yes please.”
“Here.” Rising from the bed, he paced to the door and selected a robe from the hook there. “Try this.”
Throwing the robe in her direction, Cole chose one for himself, sliding his arms into the sleeves. By the time he turned back, Eden was wearing his first choice, the blue robe drowning her slender limbs.
“It’s a little large,” she announced dryly.
“It’ll keep you warm.” He suppressed his laughter, gesturing to the door. “Let’s go to the kitchen, and I’ll get you a drink.”
Opening the door for her, he watched her lift the hem of the robe and stride past him. He followed close behind, steering her back to the open-plan living area.
“What would you like?” he asked.
“What time is it?” Eden rubbed her face as if she couldn’t believe anything that had happened since five o’clock that afternoon. “I’ve completely lost track.”
“Late enough for a stiff one.” He couldn’t help but snicker that time. “If you want one.”
“Very funny, sir.” She shook her head. “But I’d better not. I might still need to drive today.”
‘You won’t be driving today, little girl.’ Folding his arms across his chest, he wondered if she’d heard the thought, but based on her non-reaction, he guessed not.
“Whatever happens, you should stay tonight.” He leaned against the kitchen counter, hardly believing he was contemplating letting her go at all. He’d told Eden everything—all of the private details that only his brothers had shared until that day. There was no way he should let her go anywhere, and yet he’d meant what he’d told her; they did have to trust each other. Both he and Eden had information about the other that would have serious ramifications if released publicly. They both needed faith. “It’ll be dark soon, and you must be exhausted.”
“Are you going to make me stay?” She flashed him her bedroom eyes.
“Only if you beg me nicely.” Cole could play this game all night. “In the meantime, I want you to relax with a drink, and tell me more about your father.”