It’s her.

Right? That’s the woman who I can’t stop thinking about. The one who sent my dick into overdrive, shattering my glass wall, and quite possibly my career.

I’m not just seeing things, am I?

I squint my eyes to focus…on her ass.

What? Her back is to me and it’s the only thing I can see from this seat. And, to be honest, it’s the only asset I remember most of hers.

Holy shit, it’s actually her.

My Stairmaster Goddess.

See, I told you; I’d know that ass from anywhere. And damn, she did not disappoint in that curve-hugging dress.

I try to focus on what she’s saying, but it’s hard with her ass staring at me.

The words spa and Clarendon make it through the fog, but it when I hear her punch line, I freeze.

“Just imagine, Mr. Cooper—to announce to the world that Clarendon Tower will be home to the best spa in the city.”

Wait, what did she just say?

I put the pieces together and listen more intently, looking away from her. What can I say? She’s really fucking distracting.

Fuck.

She’s trying to get my fucking space. I should’ve known. Why else would she be here?

Maybe that’s her game plan; charm the board into giving her the space, with her perky tits and plump ass. I bet Mr. Trump Wannabe with that god-awful hair hasn’t seen a body like hers since…fuck, maybe ever? This must be a treat for him.

Seriously, who would fuck a guy with that weasel-like mouth? Tell me, would you want to be carpeted by a toupee, mid-thrust? If so, I think you might be reading the wrong book.

But is this woman serious? I can’t fucking believe it.

I steady my breathing, trying to calm my nerves. It’s bad enough that she fucked me to oblivion. Well, not literally, but viscerally. That still counts, damnit!

She’s the one that put me in this mess and why I’m even fucking here in the first place.

Hell… no.

I will not let her take this from me too.

No. No fucking way.

Not after everything that she’s caused.

That perfect ass has caused me to teeter on the very edge of bankruptcy.

I finally have a shot at redeeming myself and she’s standing right there in her cute as fuck dress waiting to fuck it all up.

No fucking way.

Over my dead body.

I stand up and straighten my tie—yeah, I wore a tie. I have to be a professional sometimes. Appearances are everything in this world and I have yet to disappoint. Unfortunately, it looks like my kryptonite can play the part too.

“Yeah, I’d like to object,” I announce. But I don’t look at Seymour (because who would want to?) and instead my eyes lock on the beautiful eyes of Serena who is glaring daggers at me.

How fucking lovely.

“I’d like to bid for the site. I want that place to be my flagship gym.”

“Ah, Mr. Colt McCoy…” Seymour places his elbows on the table and intertwines his fingers in that villainous way. It’s like something an evil witch would do in a Disney movie or some shit. It’s pathetic and kind of creepy to see a grown man doing it.

He continues. “Your gym has become quite popular over the last few days. And mainly for its unwarranted and illicit services. So, enlighten me, why do you think that your flagship gym is appropriate for Clarendon Tower?”

I peel my gaze from hers only after I see her hand cover her mouth.

I smirk because I know exactly what she’s thinking and if she thinks I’m ashamed for showing her—and the world—what Colt McCoy is packing, she’s got another thing coming. I hope. But knowing my dick is on her mind makes me feel like the fucking King that I am.

“Seymour—”

“Mr. Cooper,” he corrects me. Ass.

“Mr. Cooper,” I clear my voice. “Colt Academy is a high-end gym, offering exclusive fitness classes taught by world-renowned trainers, myself included.” I make sure to catch her as she glances over at me. “Clarendon Tower is an exclusive property, catering to the elite, top-tier of New York. The two work in tandem with each other, such as providing top-of-line services that only the 1% can attain. And who doesn’t like having a killer bod to show off to your ex?”

I get a few chuckles from the crowd, but the Goddess only shakes her head.

I’m well-aware that this pitch sounds ridiculous. I didn’t get into fitness because of celebrities, whiny trust fund babies, and the ‘real’ housewives; I got into fitness because I care about the health and well-being of my clients. My empire became what it is because of those core values.

Don’t call me out just yet though. I know what you’re thinking, baby. What about all the money, power and pussy you’re obsessed with? Well, those are all great fucking things too. It comes with the position; work hard, play hard. I wouldn’t be able to live in excess if I didn’t work my ass off. You only have one life, so why the fuck not live it up?

Seymour leans back on his chair and whispers to the other board members.

“Mr. Cooper,” my rival chimes in. “Though Mr. McCoy brings up valid points, may I remind you that Serene Spa exudes elegance and luxury. Like Clarendon Towers. It’s here where clients come to relax, unwind from their hectic days, and push away the stresses of life. Sounds like a proper place for the hard-working individuals of the Clarendon Towers.” She bats her eyelashes and turns to me, her lips gradually forming into a mischievous grin.

Touché, doll.

“I see both of your appeals, Mr. McCoy and Ms. James; however, both of your reputations precede you. Ms. James has assured me that there will be no funny business if she were to conduct business here. How can you do the same?” Seymour stares at me, straightening his shoulders like he’s preparing for his starring role in Annie.

“What happened that day at Colt Academy was a fluke.” I admit while glaring at Ms. James, wanting her to feel a tad responsible for the mishap. “It was an accident that’ll never happen again. I can promise that. With Clarendon’s pristine location, I can assure you that the equipment and the infrastructure will be secure and top-of-the-line.”

“What equipment does that include?” Ms. James quips back and pivots her body to face mine.

I drink the full sight of her in, she’s fucking spectacular. Better than I ever imagined and so much better this close.

I turn towards her, ignoring the board, who resembles the counterfeit version of bobbleheads right now.

Do they ever speak?

“Any equipment that requires the use of your body,” I smirk at her. “That is what my gym specializes in. Bodies.”

“Yes, I’m quite aware. Though in my spa, I at least know how to control our technique and liquids.”

Did she just insult my fucking skills? Damn, I knew she was trouble. The moment I locked eyes on her, I knew this woman had nerve.

“Unlikely. See, at my gym, technique is done with precision and care. The liquids, as you so eloquently put it, are most likely from the perspiration of those practicing good form. It’s merely a bodily function that happens to everyone.” I linger on each word, trying to emphasize this point not only to her but to the board. “And it rarely ever causes a severe reaction.”

I watch as her body tenses underneath the cotton fabric synching her curves. God, I want to rip that fucking dress off her and feel her muscles strain against mine. I want to feel her convulse around me as I pound into her tight pussy, just like I’ve imagined.

Her cheeks redden, illuminating the sparkle of her blue eyes. And if I’m not mistaken, her nipples are hard. They look sharper than fucking diamonds.

Looks like my little charmer has a craving for my liquids and technique.

Damn. She’s fucking hot when she’s mad.

“Reactions happen only to those who don’t listen to instruction, who live life with no care…to the way a liquid or lotion…might rest on their body. That’s why at Serene we carry a variety of liquids, lotions, and creams to cater to those that are more sensitive.”

I smile, knowingly. And, for dramatic effect, I wink at her.

Nice cover up, doll.

“So, does my gym. All bodies are catered to. Whether it’s by some high-specialized and certified personal trainer or personalized fitness class. Everyone at Colt Academy walks away feeling anew and satisfied,” I reply, mockingly.

“Satisfied? I’m sure the seniors were satisfied.” She scoffs.

I open my mouth to defend myself. But she cuts me off before I can begin.

“And, who wants to be just satisfied? At the spa, you’re transported into a realm of ecstasy unheard of; it’s blissful yet rejuvenating. I doubt you can say that about a gym. With the range of services we provide, you’ll never tire of us and your body will surely appreciate it. And I know, you’ll be coming back for more.” She winks back at me and crosses her arms, feeling so assured and confident.

Ok, she knows how to play hardball. But unfortunately for her, I’m an athlete and competition’s in my blood.

Now, my turn.

“A true transformation begins at the gym. To get, be, and stay healthy is our main priority. We want our clients to be fit, feel strong, and stay young.” I pause for effect. “We go above and beyond to assure their goals are met. Trust me, my hundreds of clients always coming back.”

She rolls her eyes at my exaggeration.

What’s so wrong about using anecdotal evidence to support my claims? And, so what if I used some key buzz words that I know would interest the people in this room? It’s called marketing, doll. I know my clientele, and I know how to cater to them. Some more than others, obviously.

“Excuse me!” Seymour cuts in, cutting the tension rising between us. It’s a heavy and heated mix of need and anger, and it’s fucking electric, sparking every time my eyes scroll down her body. “I have no idea what you people are talking about!”

I know for a fact she’s found my growing bulge. I wore these tight pants for a reason, even though, I had no idea how effective they would end up being today.

“That is enough. As much as we’ve enjoyed your enthusiasm, this is getting absolutely ridiculous,” Seymour declares.

We pull away from each other and look at Seymour, but I still feel her eyes on me.

Yeah, she’s checking me out. I mean, who wouldn’t? I’ll gladly be her piece of meat if she promises to take a bite.

“Before we move forward with the meeting and the decision of this vacancy, are there any others who would like to bid for the space?” Seymour asks the room and avoids looking at us.

The room goes quiet. Pin drop quiet.

I survey the seats around me, looking to see if there are any eager hands. Seymour’s eyes dart from one corner to the other. It’s like we’re all holding our breath for some fucking reason.

But I let out my breath, relieved that there’s no one else I have to fight off. But as soon as I do a bold voice breaks through the silence.

“Me!”