“If it were up to me, you wouldn’t have a job. You weren’t my idea.”

“And yet, here I am.” His lips curved, but there was no humor in his eyes. “Whether I remain isn’t up to you. It’s up to Ms. Wright, and from what I’ve seen and heard, she’s on the side of signing my checks.”

Right. She was just another job for him, wasn’t she? Just another paycheck. Why couldn’t she remember that? “You’re just always there. Here. Everywhere. I feel like I need to put a bell around your neck.”

“You can try,” he countered. “I get it, Peyton. You’re used to being in control. You like your nice, organized little world as tidy and compact as possible. I’m an intruder. But here’s something you need to know about me.” He moved in, close enough she could feel his breath against her face, feel the warmth of his body radiating against hers. “I don’t quit.”