Page 248 of Steamy Ever After

“’Bout a block down, on the street.”

“Hop in.”

“You got it.” Brodie ran over and climbed in the passenger seat.

Peyton started the engine and put the car in reverse.

“Do you need to let Alex know you’re leaving?”

“Nope. If you get caught kissing in the tasting room, you have to finish closing up by yourself.”

“Is that a rule?”

“Is now.”

“Where are we going?”

“It’s a surprise.”

“Oh, I like this.” Brodie reclined his seat slightly and settled into it.

“Are you comfortable?”

“You know it, baby.”

Peyton shook her head then appeared to be lost in thought.

“Whatcha’ thinkin’ about?”

“You.”

“Now, there’s an answer I like. What about me?”

“Hmm. Should I tell you, or would mystery be better in this instance?”

“You should definitely tell me.”

“Mystery it is.”

“Oh, man. You got me. Since I have three brothers, I should’ve seen that coming.” Two. He only had two older brothers, but she knew what he meant. “Come on, Peyton.” He touched the side of her face with his fingertips. “Don’t lose that smile I’ve been watching all night long.”

She looked over at him and fought it, but then couldn’t help herself.

“There it is. There’s her smile, ladies and gentlemen, and I think that means she likes me.”

When Peyton drove south on Highway One, then took a left, away from the ocean, he asked if she was taking him home.

“Patience, Brodie.” She cringed. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to turn into your mother.”

“I like it. But can we pretend you’re my teacher instead?”

“Huh?”

“You know, teacher-student fantasy.”

“Ew.”

“Guess that’s a no.”

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