Hating You, Loving You (Inked Hearts 4)

"Her work ethic?"

"No."

"Then what's your issue?"

Fuck. He's right.

I can't take this from her. Even if it will make my life easier.

It's been an eternity.

This isn't high school

I'm not hung up on the girl who hates my guts.

I'm a grown adult.

I can work with Chloe without letting her get under my skin.

Better convince Ryan I don't actually care. "Will she really be mine?" I raise a brow.

"Don't."

"What if she's into it?"

"She's not. There's no fucking way Chloe wants anywhere near your dick."

I don't bother correcting him.

He takes a step backward. "Can I trust you with this?"

"Can you trust me with anything?"

He shakes his head fuck if I know. "I'll see you Wednesday."

"Until then." I nod my goodbye.

Watch him join Leighton at the counter.

He whispers something in her ear. She blushes.

He wraps his arm around her and whisks her to the door.

She waves on her way out.

It's just me and the machines.

I love the feel of Inked Hearts. The smell of rubbing alcohol. The red and pink string lights lining the walls. The framed art in the lobby.

It's a fucking thrill, knowing the place is mine.

But it doesn't fill me as deeply as it used to.

The bartender shoots me a sweet smile. A you free after my shift smile.

But I know better than to shit where I eat.

She runs her fingers through her long black hair. "Usual?"