Page 86 of Faking the Shot

“The top?”

“The sub-penthouse, so close enough.”

“Hmm. Someone famous must live there.”

“It has good security.” And a gym. And nice views overlooking the park. “So I’m guessing the fact you can see the water means you can see the mountains, too?”

“From my bedroom.”

He swallowed. That was something he couldn’t afford to think about.

A meow stole his attention to the floor, where a cat he’d seen on video stared at him. “I’m guessing you must be Louie.”

“You’re guessing right,” Ainsley said.

“Hello, Louie,” Zac said solemnly.

Louie’s gaze narrowed slightly—there was a bit of Mack in that look—then he turned and wandered away, going to rub Ainsley’s leg.

“I don’t think he likes me.”

“You wait. He warms up slowly. You’ll see.”

He glanced around. Her place was neat, with feminine touches, like the lilies in the vase, and the floral paintings on the wall. “Your place suits you,” he said.

“How?”

“It looks soft and pretty.” He glanced at her. “Like you.”

Even though the light was dim, he was pretty sure that was a blush. “You’re sweet.”

“You’re amazing.”

“Zac.”

“I mean it. Who buys a house for their mom and plans to turn it into a women’s refuge? Someone who’s amazing, who has a good heart, that’s who.”

“I felt like it was something God wanted me to do.”

He was sorely tempted to take her in his arms again. But first he had something to do. “Hey Ainsley?”

“Hey Zac?” She smiled.

“You know, with all the gift giving today I forgot something.”

“What’s that?”

“I forgot to give my gift to you.”

“You have a gift for me? But I don’t—”

“Being with you is a gift.” He smirked. “Your presence is gift enough for me.”

She rolled her eyes but smiled.

“Close your eyes.”

“Zac, I don’t know—”

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