Pretend You're Mine (Inked Hearts 3)

“Okay.”

“I’m gonna need it all the fucking time.”

“That’s okay. I will too. I’ll worry I’m second choice. And I’ll want to run when you hurt me. Or when I get scared. And I might. But I’ll come back. I promise.”

I slide my hands into his hair and I kiss him hard. “Say it again, please.”

“I love you, Leighton.”

“I love you, Ryan.”

And I kiss him like I’m never going to let go.

Because I won’t.

Chapter 53

Epilogue

Ryan

Leighton slides off her stool. A yawn escapes her berry lips as she stretches her arms over her head.

Her blue-green eyes meet mine.

They light up as her lips curl into a smile.

That’s all it takes for me too. I see her, and I’m happy.

I feel like a different person.

Not that she’d agree.

According to my girlfriend, I’m still plenty moody and difficult. I’m sure she’s right. I still work too much, run miles at a time, spar until I drop. I still obsess over cooking her dinners, making her smile, making her come—

Fuck, I’m getting distracted.

Her snug black sweater does nothing to help matters. Its low neckline shows off the lace of her black bra.

She catches me staring and tugs the sweater lower.

My tongue slides over my lips.

My thoughts get dirty. I want to strip her out of those clothes, place her on the counter, and spread her legs.

She looks hot as hell.

And it’s the perfect distraction from the thought racing around my head.

What if she says no?

She smooths her black mini-skirt as she presses her laptop closed.

I turn back to my client. As soon as I check him out, I’m done with work. And that means I’m taking her there. And I’m asking.

My voice is quiet. Nervous. “You need a minute?”

He shakes his head no way. Stands. Continues admiring his work—a Storm Trooper ready to shoot—in the mirror.