Hating You, Loving You (Inked Hearts 4)

This time, her laugh spreads over her chest and torso. She pulls her hand over her stomach as she doubles over.

Fuck, it's adorable.

And hot.

But I play my part. "That hurts, Chloe."

"Yeah?"

"I'll never be clever enough for a comeback like that. Don't rub it in my face."

"Uh-huh." Her laugh gets louder. Heartier. "I hate to step on your dreams, but I know how to surf."

"So?"

"Aren't you trying to teach me something?" She takes her last sip. Sets her cup down.

Maybe. But it's not surfing. It's something deeper. There's a bright woman under the layers of black.

I want to bring her out.

Not 'cause there's anything wrong with Chloe's scowl or her clothes or her attitude.

Because I want to show her the beauty in the world.

'Cause I want to make her smile like this again and again.

Because she hates me.

Because she bites back.

Because she wears her misery on her sleeve.

This girl is under my skin.

It's fucking weird.

I take my last sip. "You ready?"

"Sure." She moves forward. "Are we walking or driving?"

"You up for a walk?"

She nods.

I grab my surfboard. Hand it to her. "Thanks. Carry this."

She wraps both arms around it. "Is that a challenge?"

I offer my best effortless shrug.

Fire fills her eyes as she lifts the board. It's way too big for her, but she holds it against her side like it's a tiny scrap.

She's strong. Or good at pretending.

I take it back. It's fun baiting Chloe, but I can't let her ride that board. It will swallow her whole. "It's too big for you. We'll rent one."

"What about you?"