Page 86 of Endgame

It’s not lost on me that there's no going back as soon as we cross the friendship line. Not like we didn’t already cross it the second I all but begged him to sleep with me.

Here goes nothing.

Taking one last breath, I open the hotel door to reveal perfection in human form.

Holy beetles, he’s a work of art.

Callaway’s back is facing me, most likely giving me asecond to get to the door, and from what I can see already, his version of comfort is my favorite look.

He’s standing tall in camouflage cargo joggers, the epitome ofsexyon a man, a black scoop hem tee that hugs every rip, line, and muscle like a second skin, showcasing all of those beautiful tattoos I love so much, black combat boots, and every woman’s weakness, a backward Strikers hat.

I’m deceased.

His lips may need to rescue me right this second.

Thankfully for me, he doesn’t register my ogling in time, only to turn around and knock me off my feet again.

How did I turn down this deliciousness of a man for so long?

His smile reaches his eyes, defeating me on the spot.

And heavens, he’s got Vanilla Creme Milanos in his hands, for me.

Forget flowers. Find you a man who brings you cookies.

I’m somehow unable to speak.

I can see him scanning me up and down with adoration. I could be standing here in a brown paper bag, and Callaway would still find a way to make me feel like the most beautiful woman he’s ever seen.

“You are breathtaking.”

Puddle. I’m a puddle of goo.

I’m so smitten with him that I may liquify on the spot.

“You’re not so bad yourself, Ocean Eyes.” His brows furrow in question.

“About that. Please explain.” I was wondering when he would ask me that. Asking for explanations seems to be our thing.

“It’s simple. Your eyes have always reminded me of the ocean. It’s my favorite place. There’s depth in its waves and anever ending current to get swept away in. The ocean is calming, like you are to me.”

That may be the most vulnerable thing I’ve ever said to him, but I meant it when I said I wasall in. I want him to know every part of me.

“Vanilla and Coconut.” That catches my attention. “Your scent is whatcalmsme. I’ve never been one to need anything to set myself at balance until you.”

If it weren’t our first date, I’d drag him in my hotel room and have my way with him. His sweet words will be my downfall. Still, I want to do this right.

I reach for the cookies and stuff them into my cross-body purse; there’s a slight chance I might need them later. The corners of my cheeks rise as I grab his hand, shutting the door behind me and leading him toward the elevators.

“Let’s get out of here.”

36

CALLAWAY

“You got your ass whooped,old man!”

Oh, she’s got some sass tonight. We’ll see about that.

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