Page 14 of Before We Were Us

I still hold her close, unable to release her.

“It’s also owned and operated by one of my very best friends.”

“Oh, I see.” I chuckle. “Is this a setup so the friend can check me out and offer their feedback?”

“Marco is very observant and honest,” Brynn states. “His opinion means the world to me.”

Another hurdle.

“Seven a.m. sound okay?”

“Works for me,” she agrees and though I don’t want to, I walk her to her car as the valet pulls up out front.

Tucking her inside I lean over and rest my hand on the roof of her car. “I really wish you would have allowed me to pick you up.”

“Next time.” She grins.

Slouching, I move in and I can tell that she assumes I’m about to offer her another kiss. Instead I press my lips to her jaw, dragging the tip of my nose over her cheek, my mouth hovering near her ear. “Thank you for tonight, it was perfect.”

She shivers and I feel like my gesture has done its job.

Standing once more I offer her a wink, before gently closing the door behind her. She waves through the darkened glass, just before pulling away from the curb.

I remain where I am watching as she leaves, the brake lights of her Audi glowing just before she turns the corner and disappears.

I let out the breath I didn’t realize until now I was holding. I pass my own ticket to the valet, my mind revisiting every piece of conversation that Brynn and I shared. Her smile filled my thoughts, her laughter echoing in my mind. She’s incredible, it's only been minutes since she’s left and I barely know her, but I already miss being near her.

Pausing outside of the small charming cafe, across from Brynn’s apartment building, I smile to myself. There she sits at a small table with a man I assume is her friend Marco. Reaching across the table he places his hand over hers, offering a squeeze. His lips move, and she listens, before responding.

Then as if they both can feel me watching, they turn in my direction and I pull open the door.

A bell rings, announcing my arrival as I step inside.

“Oh come on,” the man says and I pause wondering what could be wrong. He stands, placing his hands on his hips as he looks over at Brynn. What I’m really confused about is that she is smiling, her eyes dancing with amusement.

“This seems so unfair,” he pouts. “Why can’t a man that looks like you walk in here, looking for me instead? I hate you right now,” he says to Brynn. “He’s hot and he’s a detective.”

I chuckle, relieved that I hadn’t somehow offended him but instead have passed at least one portion of the test.

“The handcuffs part could be fun.” He wags his brows and I continue forward, leaning over to kiss Brynn’s cheek.

“I’ve never used them outside of the job, but I’m willing to test that theory,” I say loud enough for Marco to hear and he laughs happily, clapping his hands.

“Oh girl,” he squeals. “Hello Mr. Dreamy, I am Marco.” He holds out his hand and I accept.

“Strong, forceful grip.” He fans his face. “I may need to sneak upstairs for a cold shower. Does it suddenly feel hotter here?”

Marco is a riot. An unexpected joy, lifting the stress I’d felt the entire drive over here. I was unsure of what I was walking into, and I must admit this was not what I’d expected.

“I see the appeal,” he again speaks to Brynn. “You don’t mind if I hold on to this image for later, when I’m alone do you?”

Suddenly my cheeks heat.

“Oh wow,” Brynn laughs, “you blush.”

“Apparently so.” I can’t contain my smile.

“And he just gets better and better,” Marco sighs, walking away toward the counter to help some awaiting guests.

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