Page 24 of The Small-Town Seduction Plan

Angrily folded arms. Impatient glare.

Nope, not a figment. This is definitely the genuine grumpy article.

And he’s looking at me like I’m the last person on earth he wants to see.

Well, two can play that game.

“Yes, I am stalking you,” I declare brightly, folding my arms. “You got me. I really have nothing better to do with my life than roam the countryside, searching for just the sight of you. ‘Where’s Duke?’ I cry to the winds,” I add dramatically, pressing a hand to my forehead like some forlorn heroine in a gothic romance. “Where, o’ where can I find him now?”

Duke rolls his eyes, but I can see the edge of his lips twitch, like he’s trying not to smile.

“OK, I get it,” he sighs. “This is just another unlucky coincidence.”

“Fate’s really got it out for you,” I agree cheerfully. “Better watch out for black cats, and avoid walking under tall buildings.”

“Who says it’s me being tormented?” Duke shoots back. “You’re way more likely to have pissed off the powers-that-be.” He runs a hand through his damp hair, and I try not to look at the way it makes his bicep flex.

Try, and fail.

Miserably.

“Let’s just call it a draw, and be on our way,” I tell him, hitching up my beach bag. “I’m guessing the swimming pond is that way,” I add, pointing to where he just emerged from the trees.

“How do you know about Gull Pond?” he asks, frowning.

“I have my ways. I guess my natural charm and powers of persuasion are irresistible,” I add airily, batting my lashes.

He snorts. “You mean, some poor guy fell at your feet, and you trampled all over him.”

I narrow my eyes. Why does this grouch think he knows me?

And why do I care?

“Sure,” I drawl, sarcastic. “Because in the precious few hours free time I get while I’m not stalking your every move, I make it my mission to seduce and manipulate every defenseless man in the Tri-state area. You know, I better get back to it,” I say, starting to walk past him. “Places to go, lives to ruin!”

“Have fun.” Duke snaps. “I’d say ‘good luck’, but clearly, you’re the expert!”

“I’ll take that as a compliment,” I call back, determined to get the last word. “I can send you a link to my official fan club if you want—OWWWW!”

I feel a sharp sting on the inside of my leg, and let out a scream.

“Christ, what now?” I hear Duke’s annoyed voice rumble, but I’m too busy clutching my leg and hopping around in pain. Then I see something moving in the tall grass.

Something slithering.

“It bit me!” I cry, panicking. “A snake just bit me!”

“Are you serious?” Duke arrives at my side, frowning.

“I just saw it!” I yell, pointing. “Over there!”

He scans the ground. “I don’t see anything…”

“It was right there!” I insist, holding onto his arm for balance. “And it bit me. Look!”

I uncover my leg, showing him the red marks a couple of inches above my knee.

“I don’t know… it could have just been a mosquito, or bug,” he offers, looking dubious.

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