The Professor (Forbidden Encounters 1)

With a resigned groan, I open the door and slide in. It feels so warm. So good. I let out a content sigh. My ass was literally freezing off in the short uniform dress and stockings. Sniffing, I bury my nose in the collar of my coat. Bryce adjusts something on the dashboard and the leather seat heats up. I almost groan my pleasure and gratitude.

“Better?” He asks.

“Uh huh.” I shove my hands into my coat pockets and soak up the heat.

“Where are you going?”

“Bus stop.”

“I mean, where do you live in west Oak Valley.”

I know that’s what he meant, but I can’t let him take me home. “You can’t take me home, it’s too much out of your way.”

“Well, I am stalking you the least I can do is give you a lift home no matter how far it is.”

“You just don’t quit, do you?”

He shakes his head. “I’ve never quit anything in my life. Not even piano lessons, which I was forced to take and detested. I tough things out, Abigale, even running behind defiant women... one in particular.” He drives on but keeps the speed at a crawl.

“You don’t expect me to believe that you stick to one woman?”

“What gives you the idea that I don’t?”

“You’re wealthy. Your type is almost always playboys.”

He lets out a roar of laughter. “My, you’re delightful.” Giving me a quick glance, his lips twist into a smug grin. “You Googled me, didn’t you?”

“No… yes. So what if I did? What’s the smug look for?”

“It means you’re interested. In me.”

“You’re so full of yourself,” I mutter.

“It’s okay. I’m interested in you too, Abigale.”

Fully warmed up, I cross my arms over my chest and glare at his profile. “Are you always so arrogant?”

“Yup, we rich folks, usually are.”

He flashes me a toothy grin. The laugh I try to hold back comes out and floats around his fancy car.

Chapter Four

Bryce

I’ve never heard a sweeter sound. Her laughter surrounds me like a blanket, warming me on this frosty night. My abdominal muscles actually clench at the sounds. I take another quick look at her. Her features have softened and her eyes twinkle. She’s less guarded and… beautiful. There’s the girl I met and kissed on the beach.

“At least you own it,” she says. “Call me Abby.”

“Abby.” I smile. “Does this mean we’re friends?”

“No. Everyone calls me that.”

I sigh. “You have got to be the most difficult woman, I’ve ever met.”

She looks at me and grins. Now, she’s the smug one.

“Even though we aren’t friends… yet. I’m taking you home. It’s midnight, and it’s freezing. I won’t take no for an answer. Remember, I’m arrogant.”