Page 47 of The Charmer

My ears heated. It was a good thing it was dark outside or Xander would see exactly how fast I could blush.

"Do me a favor," he said as Julian's car approached.

"Sure, anything."

"Keep an eye out for my brother. See that he doesn't get himself into trouble."

"I'll do my very best," I promised.

"I'll help you to the car."

My ankle really was starting to throb. I hoped to God it was going to be fine by tomorrow after some Advil. I couldn’t afford a day off during Carnival season.

Xander brought me all the way to the car, then opened the door like a gentleman before helping me inside. "It was nice meeting you, Georgie."

"And you," I replied before he closed the door.

"Give me your address," Julian said as he started down the street. Even in the dim lighting from the old-fashioned streetlamps, the beauty of the homes took my breath away.

I took out my phone and tapped my address into the navigation system before placing it next to the wheel.

My stomach rumbled loudly.

"You hungry?" he asked.

"Yes. Those canapés were great but small."

"What are you in the mood for?"

"Something simple, like red beans and rice. But anything goes, really."

"I know a great take-out place here in the Garden District. Opposite direction, but it'll just be a short detour."

“Perfect.” I took off my shoes, which did wonders for my ankle. "Hmm. I don’t think it’s my ankle that’s the problem but the heels themselves. I already feel much better. I don't know how I'll put them back on to get into my house."

"You won't have to. I'll carry you."

I turned to him and laughed. "Right."

"I mean it. I'm strong." He flexed his bicep for emphasis.

"Oh, I wasn't doubting that." I'd felt those muscles up the way they deserved while he was kissing me. I sighed just remembering it. I’d been so completely undone, I'd even forgotten that we were kissing because Kyle was watching. I simply enjoyed everything this gorgeous man made me feel.

And now I was more confused than ever.

A few minutes later, Julian announced, "We're here. I'll jump out and buy us dinner. Any preference if they don’t have red beans and rice?"

"Surprise me. Want me to come with you?"

"No. Your ankle needs rest."

I relaxed in the seat after he closed the door. I was still trying to process this evening, but I’d need more time on my own to do so. Being around Julian clouded my ability to think.

Danger. That's a straight-up red flag, a voice said at the back of my mind, but I dutifully ignored it.

I didn't have too much time to mull over my thoughts because Julian returned a couple minutes later.

"That was fast."

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