And Pam was more than ready to see him. She flashed Trish a smile and forced herself to walk, not run, to the connecting door. The knob turned easily under her hand. The door opened on silent hinges. The pale gold, vertical blinds were closed against the California midday sun, but brass candlestick lamps on the white pine tables cast a welcoming glow. Declan sat behind his oak desk, chin resting on the points of his fingers as he quietly perused her from the huge black leather executive chair.

Pam shut the door behind her, then leaned against it as she let her shoulder bag slide to the floor. The soft, black leather landed with a plop. Her heartbeat thudded with the rush of her heated blood. All she could see, all she could think about was him. That half smile lifted one corner of his mouth again. His gaze mentally stripped her clothing away.

"Detective Donaldson." His voice drifted over her, beckoning, caressing like fingers against her hot skin.

She maintained her position. "Dr. Trent."

Two could play the waiting game. The rewards were still the same. She twisted the lock closed on the door. The click echoed in the room.

"Are you armed, detective?" he asked.

"Yes. My weapon is holstered and in my bag. And you? Are you armed?"

"Cocked and ready, ma'am."

Pam tried not to laugh, but the giggle came out anyway. "Oh, really?"

Declan leaned back and tugged the knot loose on his tie. "Yep, I've been hard as a rock since I saw your name on the schedule this morning."

"I couldn't let you go away to a conference without a proper send-off. And I know how you like surprises."

"I do."

"How fortunate you can find room in your schedule to accommodate me."

"I'm always willing to squeeze in you."

Pam parked her hands on her hips and laughed. "Stop that. This is supposed to be a seduction. I can't do the come-hither look and fuck-me walk if you have me laughing."

He tossed back a laugh of his own. "Sorry. Proceed with the come-hithering and fuck-me stuff."

"Thank you." She took a step toward him.

He held up his hand, halting her progress. "No closer, Pam. You know the rules. You know what I want."