Page 81 of Gin & Sin

“Then what is it?”

I tense in anticipation of what he’s about to say. What if he can’t see a future with me? What if he wants to explore the dating scene? What if I’m just not enough?

“He’s not a relationship kind of guy. He’s made that so clear, even during this magical almost-week we spent together.”

Did I? Fuck.

“Things change, Stewart. From everything you’ve said, it sounds like he’s into you.”

Stewart blows out a shaky breath. “How do I find out without fucking it up?”

“Ask him?”

“No, Theo. That could fuck it up.”

My stomach flutters. I think we’re on the same page. This is good. Very good.

“Tough love time,” Theo says. “If he freaks out, then as much as it sucks, it’s better to know that and move the fuck on. You’re an amazing person and a good catch. If he doesn’t know that, then fuck that guy.”

“Easy for you to say. You’re young and confident and?—”

“Nuh-uh. Not gonna let you go there. You snagged a total baddie on your first try. Don’t give me that insecure mess.”

I hear Stewart chuckle and make a mental note to buy Theo a drink sometime.

“Just talk to him,” Theo continues. “Tell him.”

Tell me what? Could he be in love with me?

“Maybe,” Stewart says. “It hasn’t been that long.”

“Fine,” Theo says. “Wait until you’re not scared anymore, but to me, it sounds like Kit is into you, and I know about these things.”

I back away from the door, down the hallway, then make a louder entrance, scuffing my boots on the polished floor as I make my way to his office. When I get there, I step over the threshold, knocking softly on the doorframe.

Theo sits perched on the edge of Stewart’s desk, and when he sees me, his whole face lights up. I’m pretty sure he just mumbled, “Speak of the devil.”

“Kit.” Stewarts pops up from his chair. “What are you doing here?”

“I hope I’m not bothering you.”

“No. Not at all.”

“Is it weird that I missed you? I know you have a lot of work to do so I won’t stay long, but I wanted to see your face.” I offer the box. “Brought you some of those fancy chocolates from the wine shop to give you an energy boost for reading essays.”

“OMG, dreamy.” Theo slides off the desk. “I’ll give you two some privacy. Good to see you again, Kit.”

“You too, Theo.”

Theo pulls the door closed behind him, and I immediately surge forward and pull Stewart into my arms, burying my face in the crook of his neck. He’s wearing a cozy sweater and he still hasn’t shaved. He smells like laundry soap, shampoo, and… everything I didn’t know I needed. Until now.

Stewart sinks into me, wrapping his arms around my waist, and I swear I can feel his heartbeat through his chest. When I finally pull back, his cheeks are the sweetest pink.

“You missed me?” he asks.

“My bed is pretty cold without you in it.” I brush my fingers across his cheek. “I’m glad you kept the beard.”

“My ex hated it when I grew it out.”

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