As tempting as this offer was, and as much as she’d love to spend countless hours naked with this man, Alex couldn’t say “yes”. She didn’t want to be tied down or feel suffocated. No, that wasn’t the problem. I can’t lie to myself. I just don’t feel the same way about him , do I?

She shook her head, turning back to face him. “I’m sorry, but I just can’t.”

“Forget I said anything.” He released her hands. His chiseled jaw went rigid, darkened by the stubble. “Go on. Take that piece of crap out into space, and return to my bed whenever you’re in need of a good fuck, since that’s all you seem to want me for.”

She opened her mouth to respond, but he cut her off.

“Don’t look so shocked. It’s the truth, and you’ve just proven it.”

“Ulric, I thought you and I were looking for the same thing.”

“We were, but somewhere along the way, something changed for me. I guess it didn’t for you.” He looked away. “That’s okay. You’ll learn to feel the same way soon enough. I’m sure of it.”

Alex didn’t particularly appreciate the comment. Did he hope to manipulate her into falling in love with him, or was he just hoping it would happen eventually? Either way, she didn’t respond well to manipulation. It always reminded her of her scheming mother.

“Well, as long as you’re still open to being lovers, you know I’ll be back.”

His eyes darkened with desire. “Babe, with a body like yours, and the things you’re able to pull off in bed, you’re more than welcome to return whenever you want. No matter what, I’ll always be ready to get into your pants. Or get you outof your pants.”