Inner Circle

guests as they trickled out of the ballroom. Andre Jackson's fundraiser had been a success, and by all appearances, so had h

esence was magnetic, and Brooke could feel the intensity in his gaze

just wanted to thank you again for tonight. You

l what charm Andre could wield when he wanted

nk you and I make a pretty good team." He paused, his gaze flickering to the few remaining staff as they worked. "In fact,

orking with Andre again? The thought stirred something complicated within her. "Another event?"

more personal." His smile widened as he extended a hand toward her.

with such obvious interest. She quickly composed herself, giving him a polite yet firm shake of her head. "

aid, his tone casual but the wor

ew. Men like Andre didn't wait around for anyone, let alone a busy event pla

etermination. "I insist. It's late, and it's the least

tincts urged her to keep things strictly business. Still, there was something undeniably ap

calculated response. She could only nod, wondering if she'd just made a choice that would complicate her carefully crafte

one gentle now. "We'll let the team finish up, and then I'll see you home

at, despite her best efforts to keep things professional, Andre

pt her eyes on the road, occasionally catching a glimpse of Andre's car in her rearview mirror. The city lights blur into a soft glow behind her as they left the bustling heart of Atlanta and entered the quieter streets

, nodding as he opened the back door for Andre, who emerged with a casual elegance that made Brook

is every step and the way he moved with such effortless grace and confidence. When they reached her do

night, I kept wondering when I'd get the

ittle to calm her racing thoughts. "Well, here we are. What is it y

y now, don't you?" He took a step closer, his eyes warm and searching, and she could smell

me A

lled off her lips

chest, Brooke, but I'd like to get

back, trying to regain her composure. "Andre

ce she'd tried to create, his v

But I know there's somethin

ment, she let herself melt into him, the warmth of his mouth and the firmness of his hands at her waist sending a shiver down

nto focus. She placed a hand on his chest, gently but firmly, and took a step back.

" he said, a hint of a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "I can respect that. For now." He took a ste

e smooth and rich, before turni

he warmth of his kiss lingering on her lips, and she knew without a doubt that Andre Jackson was a man who didn't