“You probably are.”
“Do you really think that’s an appropriate topic for us to be discussing right now?”
“You’re right. That talk should probably come a little later in our relationship when we feel like spicing things up a bit.”
“You did not just say that.”
“I didn’t? Because I heard the words come out of my mouth.”
“Right now you’re closer to a restraining order than you are to a relationship.”
He looked concerned. “Then I am really off my game.”
“Because I don’t have the technical ability to know whether you’ve complied, I’ll have to take you at your word that you’ve removed the backdoor. If I somehow discover you haven’t, there will be no second chances.”
“So if I remove the backdoor and take off my clothes, we’ll be even?”
“Calling us even is a bit of a stretch, but okay.”
“And you’ll go out with me?”
“I suppose I can give this proposal of yours a chance. Trial basis only. If it doesn’t go well, I will not hesitate to cut you loose.”
“And the pepper spray?”
“That’s for my protection. Normally I would not allow a man I’d just met to come up to my apartment. I’m going to remain here next to the door so I can make a fast getaway if you try anything sketchy.”
“You seriously want me to take off all my clothes?”
“If you’re brave enough to do it, yes.”
Ian unzipped his leather jacket and draped it over the arm of her couch. Next he pulled his sweater over his head and let it fall to the floor. Underneath he wore a white T-shirt, and Kate observed the way his muscles flexed as he took it off. He dropped it on top of the sweater and kicked off his shoes.
He lost the jeans next, and her heart rate increased. His abs were absolute perfection, and her eyes were drawn to the narrow trail of hair that started at his belly button and disappeared into his boxer briefs.
“You can leave your socks on,” she said. “My hardwood floor’s kind of cold.”
“Are you sure? Because I can certainly take them off.”
“I’m sure.” Kate wondered if he’d actually go through with it. But she’d questioned his bravery, and men rarely let that kind of thing go unchallenged. He put his fingers in the waistband of his underwear, and as soon as they were down around his ankles, he stepped out of them.
Well goddamn.
Here was a man who was utterly secure in the way he looked naked, and with good reason. His imposing height and athletic build showcased muscles that were well defined but not bulky. Broad shoulders tapered to a narrow waist, and his long legs looked sculpted and strong. Kate was not a fan of overly hairy men, and Ian had just the right amount.
“Six three?”
He smirked. “Four.”
“Work out some?”
“Quite a bit, actually. There’s a gym in my building.”
Kate had to admit he was mouthwatering standing there in all his naked glory. How long had it been since she’d had sex? Six months at least. And it’s not like sex with Stuart had ever been especially satisfying. As she pondered that, Ian began to develop a rather impressive erection. She averted her eyes. “Stop that. This is not about sex. It’s about boundaries. It’s about equality.”
“If you’re going to stare at it, it’s going to wake up and say hi.”
“I wasn’t staring.”
He let out a chuckle. “Okay.”
Kate’s shoulders slumped in defeat. “Not modest at all, are you?”
“I can stand here all night if you want me to. Frankly, I’m more concerned about your itchy trigger finger on that pepper spray. I’ve heard it stings.”
Kate snapped the safety lock back on but kept the canister in her hand, just in case. She leaned back against the door. “You’re quite stunning to look at, as I’m sure you’re already aware.”
“Shall I give you a little twirl?”