Trouble

She blinks twice, and strain tightens her gaze. Come on, Sin. Say yes…

Her jaw clenches, and she bites out her reply. “No.”

For the space of a breath, it’s silent, no sound.

She said no.

Exhaling a chuckle, I step back, releasing her as the spell is broken. God, this woman.

“That was no random. I was having dinner with Heather. You remember Heather Olsen? You met her and her husband Jim at the gala. Grafton is giving us an exclusive on the prize selections from their summer auction. She’ll be taking them to Daisy’s store in the morning.” Turning away, I rub my hand across the back of my neck. “We were hungry.”

Joselyn hasn’t moved from where I had her pinned against the door. Her chin is still lowered, and her eyes are still focused on the parking lot below.

Still, her breasts, those luscious breasts, rise and fall rapidly beneath her long-sleeved black tunic. She’s as affected as I am.

“I guess I overreacted.” It’s a quiet admission. “I’m sorry.”

Placing a hand on the metal balcony rail, I look up at the night sky. A smattering of stars is spread across black velvet, and it feels like something important is happening.

“You hoped the worst day of my past was the best day of my future.” The creativity of it makes me smile.

“I read that somewhere.”

“It’s good.” A police siren pierces the quiet, and I look over at her. “This is a terrible neighborhood. What are you doing here?”

“Trying to make ends meet. Something I’m sure you know nothing about.”

“I’ve told you. You don’t know about my past, Sin.” I glance at the corner, where I saw hoodie guy go. “You have my number. Call me if anything goes wrong. Or you feel scared.”

I can’t imagine her being afraid, but this time when she looks at me, the fire has subsided. At least momentarily.

“Thank you.” She steps away from the door, arms crossed. “I helped Court get a restraining order. Now we have a patrol car that drives by every night between ten and eleven.”

She seems very proud, and I don’t want to burst her bubble with how uncomfortable this makes me. “I’m available 24-7.”

“I’ll remember that.”

My hands are in my pockets, and I start for the stairs. I hate leaving her here, this way, but it’s what she wants. Just before descending, I pause. “I’ll need to see you Monday at eleven.” Sliding one hand up my waist, I squint. “Irritated my back chasing after you just now.”

“I’ll make an appointment and send you a confirmation.”

“Goodnight, Joselyn.”

I’m at my car when I hear the door slam and the lock click. Climbing inside, my phone buzzes with an incoming text. It has the letters TY and a little red heart in the Notes field.

Oh, Sin, if you think this is charity, you’re dead wrong.

Chapter 21

Joselyn

Mr. Santiago rebooked for Sunday afternoon.

He texted just as I was closing my eyes last night asking if I could see him today. Of course, I said yes, only mildly hesitant about appearing too available.

Hell, I need the work. Other than him, I’ve only got Spencer on the books for tomorrow morning.

I do have an interview at Court’s place tomorrow afternoon, but I’m not sure how soon I’ll get started or how much work it will be, or when I’ll get paid…