Page 41 of Lock 'em Down

Jenna: What kind of answer is that?

Me: An honest one.

Jenna: You might be able to smooth things over with Rhett too if you give him tickets to a Bolts game.

My doorbell rings and I swear. Exhale. Check my reflection in the mirror hanging over the console in the hallway.

You got this. Everything is fine.

Me: I gotta go. He’s here!

Another message comes through from Jenna.

Jenna: Text me later.

Jenna: I want all the deets!

Jenna: Every last one.

Jenna: Have fun!

Jenna: Be safe!

Jenna: Do you have pepper spray?

Jenna: Or a whistle on your keychain?

Considering she bought me both, I text back quickly.

Me: You know I do! Love you, J.

I slide my phone into my purse and pull open the front door.

Leif grins and my heart stutters.

He’s wearing relaxed jeans with rips at the knees and a casual, fitted black Henley with the top button undone. His hair is styled. His sneakers are clean. He’s casual and…sexier than he should be.

“Hey, Knox,” he greets me.

“Leif,” I manage.

He dips down and brushes a kiss over my cheek. “You hungry?”

My stomach twists into nervous knots. “Sure.”

“I thought we could hit up a taco place I think you’ll like. Alberto’s.”

“Sounds good.”

“It’s not fancy. They don’t even take reservations.”

Some of my nerves ease. “Sounds perfect.”

He chuckles. I settle my purse over my shoulder, lock the front door, and follow him to his waiting truck. A black Ford F-150.

For some reason, his truck, a reliable, practical, not flashy brand, relaxes me further. I step up and slide onto the passenger seat.

Leif eases himself behind the steering wheel and turns to look at me. He reaches over the center console and takes my hand, flipping my palm up to run his finger over my inner wrist. Over my tattoo. “Not hiding it anymore.”

---