Pretend You're Mine (Inked Hearts 3)

“Really. They’re smart. Sexy.”

His cheeks flush for a hot second, then they’re back to their usual sand tone.

The bell rings as I push the shop door open. But the next sound isn’t my wedge sandals on the tile.

It’s hands smacking together.

Dean is leaning against the counter, doing a slow clap.

Walker is standing next to him, shaking his head you’re ridiculous.

The guys exchange a look, the kind only best friends understand. Something about me and Ryan.

Ryan rolls his eyes, but it doesn’t wipe the smile from his face. He’s enjoying Dean’s teasing.

That’s curious.

I hug my messenger bag to my side as I make my way to the counter. “You’re taking up my domain.”

“Babe, you can’t roll in here in yesterday’s clothes without a story.” He shoots Walker a look. Right?

“Can’t say I’m following this.” He motions to Ryan, now setting up in his suite.

“You call that pressing for details?” Dean shakes his head pathetic.

I feign irritation as I take my spot behind the counter. It’s Sunday. Th

e last day of our pay period and schedule. That means extra administrative work.

Dean leans over the counter. “Tell me somebody finally came in that bed.”

“I thought I was supposed to… What are you hoping to accomplish?” I ask.

“Accomplish? Why would I do that?” He makes a show of scratching his head.

Walker chuckles. “He’s like the Joker. Lives to cause chaos.”

“Mission accomplished.”

“There’s that ugly word again.” He mimes wiping something disgusting from his shoulders.

Walker turns to me. “You need me to take him outside? Rough him up?”

“Would you really?” I press my hands together. “If I asked nicely and promised to do something sweet for Iris?”

“Only one way to find out.” Walker shrugs try me.

“Dicks before chicks.” Dean shakes his head. “Cold.”

The bell rings as a customer steps inside. She must be Walker’s eleven o’clock.

She waves hello. He nods goodbye to us, then goes to greet her.

Dean waits until they’re settled in Walker’s suite. “Anything I should know about?”

“Did you really fuck some girl so Ryan couldn’t sleep on the couch?”

“I don’t need motivation to fuck a hot woman.”