I’ve been riding on the assumption she lost her grandmother, a woman she loved and admired. But she lost a woman she worshiped, a woman who raised her with values and beliefs.
And now I feel my own loss for not ever meeting Kayla Rae Monroe.
“You didn’t answer me. Are you going to sell it?” The thought sours in my stomach.
“I don’t think so.”
“Good, I think you should keep it.”
“I’ll still make you one.”
“Thank you. I’ll treasure it.”
“Are you ready for dinner now?”
“Sure, how do you feel about take-out?”
She gives me a questioning look, probably because of my earlier comment regarding craving the taste of her.
“Let me clarify. It’s rare I can enjoy a low key dinner. Most people are very respectful, but I still get recognized. Tonight, I don’t want the interruptions. I want to spend time with you.”
Her face dawns in understanding, and she gives me a playful smile. “It’s easy to forget you’re a celebrity in this town. Let me get my purse and tell Logan goodbye. We can get something and go back to my place if that’s okay.”
“It’s not hard for me because I don’t think of myself that way, and your place sounds great.” I lean in for another quick kiss. “Go get your stuff.”
“Here’s that charm thing again. Although, I’m beginning to understand the nickname Sexy Six…” She slides out of my arms and walks to the back office.
I watch her sway away, her words ringing in my ears.
Sexy Six never sounded so good.
“Come on, Grace. Wipe that scowl off your face.” I start unpacking the food containers onto her kitchen counter.
“I’m not scowling,” she replies, getting plates and silverware. “I’m trying to figure out how this happened. It was supposed to be my treat!”
I hang my head to hide my amusement. She’s really cute when she’s miffed.
“Never gonna happen, Sweet Peach. You’re with me, I pay. Always, no arguments.”
“Absurd macho behavior.” She huffs.
“I’d prefer to think of it as gentlemanly.”
“But I’m supposed to be thanking you for all your help! It’s perfectly acceptable to let me pay.” She places the plates on the counter with a loud thud.
I glance over at her, noticing her cheeks are flushed. Her lips keep moving, but I tune her out and take a quick glance around. Once I spot empty counter space, I swoop down and pick
her up, sealing my mouth over hers. She gives a little squeal as I take a few steps and sit her on the space, slipping between her knees. My hands grip her hips lightly as I continue to kiss her until she gives in.
“You really want to fucking argue over who paid for dinner?” I say into her mouth.
Her hands glide up my chest to rest on my shoulders. “Yes,” she mutters.
I slide her closer until we’re flush against each other and deepen the kiss, letting her know there is no room for argument. Desire simmers in my veins.
If she gets this worked up over fucking take-out, I’m going to be in trouble. I saw a little of her saucy side with Logan, but when it’s directed at me, it’s more of a turn on than a threat.
Slowly, I end the kiss but don’t let her go. “Get over it, Grace, and accept it.”