Page 7 of Hook Up

Even though I’ve already admitted my lackluster relationship skills to Ryder, I don’t need my ex to bring up my shortcomings. Unless he wants me to bring up his… which I highly doubt. Leaning in, I hiss out a whisper. “Stop being an asshole.”

“I love it when you talk dirty. Come on, let’s go dance.” Austin grips my arm, his clammy fingers the antithesis of inviting.

I have no plans to go anywhere with Austin. He’s in his toxic drunken phase, meaning his personality vacillates like a pendulum. I witnessed that hell enough times during our brief dating period. “I’m staying here.”

Austin’s expression turns sour, his grip firm. “Let’s go, Greer.”

Ryder wraps an arm around my shoulder, pulling me flush to his chest. Talk about a difference. His embrace is warm and intoxicating. For the first time in forever, I feel safe. “She said no, buddy. Back off.”

“Who the fuck do you think you are?” There’s the asshole I know and hate. He needs to cease and desist, considering he’s a head shorter than Ryder and barely able to stand of his own volition.

Ryder, for his part, is hardly intimidated. “Someone who’s going to wipe the floor with your ass if you don’t walk away now.”

Volleying his gaze between us, Austin releases a huff. “Screw you both. I’m out of here.”

After watching Austin stomp off, I turn to Ryder, flashing a rueful smile. “Thank you. You didn’t have to do that.”

“He’s an asshole, Gigi. No man should ever speak to you that way.”

“That’s why we aren’t dating anymore. One of many reasons.”

“No wonder you don’t believe in relationships. Let’s change it up. Date a real man. One who appreciates how spectacular you are.”

Those azure eyes—beyond intense as they focus on my face, dare me to disagree.

My heart pounds as I hold his gaze, realizing Ryder has an effect on me I’ve never experienced with another man. An out-of-control, unable to tear myself away feeling. With a sigh—and a great deal of effort—I avert my eyes, willing my body to settle.

I’m not entirely certain I’m a fan of this feeling Ryder stirs within me.

He must sense my apprehension as he grasps my elbow, leading me into the melee of people commingling about the Manhattan loft.

“Where are we going?”

“Somewhere quiet. I haven’t seen you in over a decade, Greer, and I don’t want to share you with a roomful of strangers.”

Ryder must know the owner of the penthouse suite because he sure knows his way around. Pushing open a door, he leads us onto a rooftop patio.

I shiver against the New York chill, smiling as Ryder slips his jacket around my shoulders. “I can’t take your coat. What will you wear?”

Backing me against the brick wall, he cages me in, his muscular forearms resting on either side of my head. “I have you to keep me warm.”

“You’re a natural with the pickup lines. Perfect delivery.”

If my comment bothers him, he doesn’t let on. “Do you prefer Austin’s behavior?”

“Definitely not. The man is a waste of oxygen. When he’s drunk, at least. I owe you, Ryder.”

“I have so many ways for you to make it up to me.” There’s that sexy smirk again, even if I suspect he’s only joking.

Too bad for him. I could do all manner of naughty things to a man like Ryder Gray, particularly since the years between us are now a non-issue.

Ryder leads us to a sheltered alcove, decorated with couches, a minibar, and an outdoor heater.

Perfect.

Settling back against the cushions, I drink in his dark good looks. Ryder was always adorable. One of those kids you knew would grow up to be a heartbreaker.

I wasn’t wrong.

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