She straightened her back, forcing her gaze to remain impassive even though she was a bit shy she'd been caught gawking. "I told you, I don't want anyone's favor."
Jake's lips twitched into something that wasn't quite a smile. "Then you can pay me back," he said smoothly, his voice carrying the weight of someone who was used to being obeyed. "With whatever you have in mind. But first—tell me. How much do you need?"
Her instinct screamed at her to test him, to push him away. If he really wanted to play this game, then fine. She would name a price so outrageous it would make him back down.
Her lips curved into a faint, mocking smile. "You couldn't possibly afford what I'd ask."
"Try me."
She searched his face, expecting mockery, expecting him to back down. But instead, he looked at her with the calm certainty of a man who knew exactly what he was saying.
