Hating You, Loving You (Inked Hearts 4)

"Don't tell me it's a bad look."

"No, it suits you. Like a Hollister model."

"Hollister? Fuck, sunshine, how could you say that?"

I round the first bend in the trail. Duck under a short tree for a brief respite from the sun.

He's right behind me. Then next to me. He shoots me a smile. "At least give me Abercrombie and Fitch. Those are some hot models."

"I wouldn't know."

"Yeah." He nods to my black leggings and black tank top. "Where do you buy that gear?"

I move forward. "You really think I'd be caught dead in a preppy store?"

"No." He keeps his steps in time with mine. So he's next to me. "Just wanted to see your reaction."

"And?"

"Gold."

"I'm glad I can entertain."

He follows in silence for a few moments. The canyon fills with the gentle breeze, the sound of our footsteps, the feel of my heart thudding against my chest.

By the time we're at the top of the next hill, I'm panting and flushed. But it's not from the hike. It's him being right there. Shirtless.

He stops. Throws his hands over his eyes to block the sun then takes in the view—the canyons flush with grey-green trees, the multi-million-dollar mansions, the rolling ocean. It goes for miles. Forever. From Malibu, all the way to Long Beach Harbor and beyond.

He turns back to me, those blue eyes on fire.

My knees knock together.

My body begs me to touch him.

I reach for the first distraction I can find. "How was your last appointment?"

"Should have seen the look Ryan gave me after he saw the tattoo." He imitates his brother's disapproving frown. Then his voice. "Why would anybody want this trendy shit?"

"It was water color?"

"How'd you know?" He laughs.

"You've never told me what your opinion is."

"Not my body. Not my place."

I nod. Hug the brush to give two friends room to pass.

Dean follows suit. He places his body right behind mine.

His crotch brushes my ass.

The back of his hand brushes my hip.

His breath is cool against the back of my neck.

They pass. Finally.