Page 89 of The First Spark

“She tabbed sections for you, too?” Jade shoots me a knowing grin. “Someone has a crush. How very odd for you.”

An hour ago, I would have agreed with my cousin, but now I realize I’m probably deeper into feelings than Ori at this point.

And that isnota place I enjoy being.

I brush off her comment and duck into Black Lotus to grab the helmet. I pause by my office but decide against leaving the book. For some dumb reason, I want to keep it with me, thumb through the noted pages, and see the world through Ori’s eyes.

When I stroll back out, Jade chuckles and points to the book before putting the helmet on her head. “Change your mind?”

“I’m taking it home.” After stowing it safely in my saddlebag, I hop on the bike and glance at my cousin, still standing on the sidewalk.

But she’s not budging, and neither is her Cheshire Cat grin, visible even through the helmet.

“What?” I ask, rolling my eyes.

“Looks like someone does have a crush, and that someone isyou.”

“Get on or I’m letting your happy ass walk home.”

Jade settles behind me, clasping her arms about my waist. “Deny it all you want, but I’ve known you since you were in diapers. I know all of Asher Hammond’s deep, dark secrets.”

“Are you done busting my balls?”

“Almost. One last thing. I want to meet Ori.”

I turn slightly, a perplexed look on my face. “Why?”

“Because she’s got you twisted up in knots, and I never thought I’d see that happen. I want to hug the woman for breaking the impenetrable wall around your heart.”

“It’s not like that with her,” I argue, although I’m not entirely sure what it is anymore.

“Oh yes, it is. It’s exactly like that, but I’d fix whatever you messed up before she slips through your fingers.”

“For your information, an adult film star invited me to a private party tonight. One of the biggest stars in the business.”

My piss poor attempt to throw my cousin off my scent is futile.

“Thanks for proving my point,” she laughs.

“How did I do that?”

“The world’s biggest porn star invites you to a party and you’re going home to bed alone. Tell me I’m wrong.”

“Whatever,” I mutter, starting the bike and easing onto the street.

But the truth is, I can’t deny Jade’s claim.

And I’m not sure that I want to.

Chapter 18

A Jump Start and a False Start

Ori

“A

re you getting your happy little ass down here soon?”

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