Hating You, Loving You (Inked Hearts 4)

"Ex wasn't creative?"

"This is really none of your business."

"Not holding a gun to your head." I want all of Chloe's secrets. But I don't want to take them. I want her to give them to me.

The breeze rolls over us. This is a perfect beach day. Warm sun. Gentle breeze. Salty air. Quiet scenery. In a few hours, this place will be a mob scene. But right now? It's perfect.

She turns to me. Brushes my bangs from my eyes. "Your client was right."

"About?"

"You have an emo haircut."

"You like it."

She shakes her head, but it does nothing to hide her smile.

"You're right. I've never stuck around with anyone."

"Why not?"

"Why'd you leave your ex?"

"Is this one of your games?"

"Sure, yeah."

She leans back on her elbows. Looks up at the sky. "Aren't we here to surf?"

"Say the word. I'll grab a rental board."

Her eyes get hazy. Dreamy. "How does the game work?"

"Truth for truth."

She nods. "Okay. Deal. But you first." She looks up at me. "Why don't you stick around?"

"It's easier."

She shakes her head. "I need a deeper dig than that."

I scratch my head. "Sunshine, you've made me forget my point completely."

"That's not an answer. Why is it easier? What is it you want or don't want?"

"I want to come."

"If it was just that, you'd fuck yourself. Nothing easier than that."

She's got me there.

"You… you went through the effort to seduce me."

"I liked you."

"But I'm sure… are you telling me you don't try to seduce women?"

Try is the wrong word, but I do make an effort. "I show women a good time."