Chapter 275

Madison

“We’ll keep it private for now.” A small smile played on his lips. “You drive a hard bargain, Ms. Harper.”

Relief washed over me. “Thank you.”

“Don’t thank me yet.” He took another step closer, his voice dropping to that low register that always sent shivers down my spine. “I might want something in return.”

I raised an eyebrow, fighting to keep my expression neutral despite the heat blooming in my chest. “That’s not how negotiations work, Mr. Knight.”

“No?” His smile turned wolfish. “I seem to recall several very successful negotiations in this very office that ended quite... satisfactorily for both parties.”

My cheeks warmed at the memories his words evoked. “That was different.”

“Was it?” He reached out, tucking a strand of hair behind my ear. His fingers lingered against my skin. “How so?”

I stepped back, needing space to think clearly. “We’re discussing the terms of our arrangement. It’s business.”

“Maddie, no