Page 32 of The Knot Before Christmas

Ian’s eyes flash with rage. “You don’t have to worry about that anymore. I’m nothing like that prick of an ex. I make my own money. You won’t have to work as long as you don’t want to.”

“Does it count if you’re making money off stolen goods?” I ask, raising a brow.

He grins. “I have my ownrealbusiness, thank you very much.” He chuckles.

“Really now? What do you do?” I ask, perking up in interest.

His cheeks heat. “I ah... I own a shop.”

“What kind of shop?”

“A bakery,” he whispers.

My eyes widen. “No fucking way.”

“I know. It’s stupid–”

“No it’s not.” I shake my head. “It’s hot. You know how to bake?”

“Yeah,” he says skeptically like he doesn’t know if I’m being serious or just making fun of him.

“I do too.” I laugh. “Maybe we can naked bake together sometime.”

He breaks out a laugh. “You really are a wonder, aren't you, Nova?”

I shrug. “I’ll never bore you, that’s for sure.”

“I can tell.” He smiles and it warms my well guarded heart. It should have me worried, but I can’t seem to be right now. I like it. He’s handsome. It’s like I’m under a spell.

And I kind of want him to hug me, so I can rub up against him.Nope. Nope we are not scent marking him. Not happening.

“So, that walk?” I ask Will, suddenly needing some air.

With the boots I brought with me, my hat and coat snuggly on me, I follow Will out into the snow.

It’s daytime, but the sun is hidden behind the clouds. The wind isn’t too bad, but the snow is coming down in thick, heavy snowflakes.

It’s a little cold, but not enough to make me want to turn around and head back.

Snow pants would be nice, though. I should have searched the house to see if I could find some, but by the time I was done getting ready and came down to go, Nick came bursting into the house and down to the basement, where he’s been spending most of his time.

What's even down there that could be keeping his attention?

“So, do you have any jobs outside your life of crime?” I ask Will, huffing and puffing to keep up with him.

I’m stepping in his footsteps as he goes to make it easier for me. Doesn’t help much, because my boots are already filled with snow.

“Not really,” he mutters.

“Oh, come on. There’s got to be something you do in between robbing malls.”

I almost stumble into his back as he stops to glare at me over his shoulder.

I just smile up at him innocently.

He huffs, turning back around and continuing to the shed in the distance.

“Not much of a talker are you?” I mumble under my breath.

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