Page 62 of The Romance Library

‘Tell me!’

‘Well, seeing as we’re going to be stuck here for goodness knows how long, I was going to suggest that maybe I… read some of it to you.’

‘What?’

‘Told you it was a stupid idea.’

‘No, I’d love that. If you don’t mind?’

‘Like I said, I understand the joy people can get from books, and it’s a shame you stopped your passion just because of your idiot ex. And if it’d help you get back your love of reading, that wouldn’t be a bad thing.’

‘That’s actually really sweet.’ A huge grin spread across her face and a warm feeling flooded my chest.

‘Sweet?’ I grimaced. ‘Don’t be mistaken. I’m still a grade A arsehole, remember? Actually now you’ve told me about your ex, I should be downgraded to grade B or C, because clearly he’s the biggest wanker alive. We don’t have an internet connection, so I’d just be doing it to kill time. I don’t really want to help you, because obviously you’re still my competitor.’

‘Obviously.’

‘Call it a temporary truce. Just for tonight.’

‘Deal.’ She stretched out her hand and I shook it, trying to ignore the softness of her palm and the way my body lit up.

‘Well, until we get out of here.’ I pulled my hand back. Having any form of physical contact with Jessica wasn’t good. ‘Which might be tomorrow or never. Think how ironic it’d be if we died in the building we were both competing for!’

‘Not funny!’ Jessica stifled a smile.

‘It wasn’t a joke. I’m starving and thirsty. I was on my way to get something to eat when I saw Edwin. I don’t think I’ll last until the morning.’

‘So dramatic!’ Jessica rolled her eyes. ‘I have snacks. And water.’

‘Really?’ My eyes widened like she’d just told me she had the keys to an unlimited desserts factory.

‘Yep. I never go out without snacks.’ She reached into her bag. ‘I’ve got custard cream biscuits, an apple and a packet of salt and vinegar crisps.’

‘Salt and vinegar?’ I shook my head. ‘Everyone knows cheese and onion is the superior flavour.’

‘Ugh! Not if you plan to speak to anyone. That’s like eating a plate of garlic before a first date.’

‘Nothing wrong with garlic either.’

‘This is explaining why you’re single.’

‘Who said I’m single?’ I cocked my head to the side.

‘Aren’t you?’

‘Why do you want to know?’ I teased.

‘Just… curious, that’s all.’ She dropped her gaze. I noticed she did that a lot when she was embarrassed.

‘And you?’ I asked. ‘Are you single?’

‘One million per cent. I’m never dating again.’

‘Ah. Yes. I get why you’d feel that way after your last experience.’ I paused. I wasn’t a violent man, but if I ever met her ex I’d knock him out for what he did to her. ‘Shall we tackle these snacks and then have story time?’

‘Story time?’ She laughed again. The sound sent a warm feeling to my chest. It was nice to hear her laugh, and I liked how it brightened her face. I definitely preferred it to the normal scowls she gave me. ‘You make it sound like I’m five years old!’

‘That’s just what my mum used to call it.’

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