Page 75 of The First Spark

Turning on my heel, I flash Ash a brilliant smile. “Have fun. Don’t miss me too much.”

But I know as I walk across the parlor, Ash’s gaze hot on me, that he’ll have one thing on his mind for the next few hours.

Me.

Chapter 15

The Fine Print of Flirtation

Ori

Mina has procured some prime real estate to watch the demonstration, no doubt in part because of her striking good looks. Even though she’s dressed simply in a sweater and jeans, there is no denying the adoring glances shot her way.

Although, if any of them make an unwelcome advance, I’m breaking their fingers—along with other body parts.

Little big sister, at your service.

“Check you out,” I state with a sly grin as I sidle up to my friend. “EvenIcan see from this vantage point.”

“No doubt Ash would ensure you receive a front row seat.” She pivots, her hands planted on her hips. “Are you still going to deny something is happening between you two?”

I turn my gaze forward, as a smile threatens to break across my face. “Absolutely.”

“Your lipstick is smeared.”

Shit.

Dragging a finger beneath my lip, I cast Mina a side-eye. “Better?”

She chuckles and shakes her head. “No.”

With a huff, I throw up my hands in resignation. “Let me go fix my face. I’ll be right back.”

“Ash will only mess it up again.” Another smirk dances its way across my friend’s face. She’s havingwaytoo much fun at my expense.

“Better stop or I’ll have a chat with Braden.”

The smile falls from her lips as her mouth drops open in a gape. “You wouldn’t.”

“Wouldn’t I though?” I call the words out over my shoulder, before ducking into One More Page to fix my mussed appearance.

It’s an empty threat, although part of me would love to speak to Braden about how amazing Mina is, and that he’s a fool if he doesn’t snatch her up immediately.

But Mina might bury me six feet under if I did that.

Right now, I have too many enjoyable moments in my future to take such a risk.

After fixing the smudge of lipstick barely noticeable under my lip—while simultaneously hoping Ash is wearing far more of it—I return to Black Lotus.

But something is different, or should I say,someone.

Mina stands rigid, her lips a thin line of disapproval.

“What’s wrong?” I ask, pushing a lock of blonde hair away from her face. “Did someone say something to you? Whose ass do I need to kick?”

Mina shakes her head and offers a forced smile. “Everyone has been fine. Sweet, even. With one exception.Her.”

I follow Mina’s glare to Ash’s client, Raven, the buxom, inky-haired beauty.

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