Page 102 of Chasing Sparks

“What?” I snap, hoping my friend will take the hint and switch to a less painful subject.

"Actions speak louder than words, right? For someone who doesn’t believe in love, he sure acts like he does." Mina gives me a soft smile before hopping off the counter, as if she didn’t just drop the most casual bombshell in history.

Then, in typical Mina fashion, she waltzes away, leaving my mouth agape and my emotions fluttering.

Why do her words affect me so? Because they echo my own thoughts—the idea that Ash, despite his arguments to the contrary, has fallen as hard and fast as I have.

Maybe I’ll bring it up tomorrow. After all, Ash did mention having a surprise for me.

The man is full of surprises, and so far, I’ve loved every single one.

Chapter 15

Trouble Comes Calling

Ash

That fucking piece-of-shit investor.

I hate when wealthy men try to take advantage of people, assuming just because they’re young, poor, or female, they’re incapable. But I think I showed him exactly where he could shove his proposal.

I didn’t know who the guy was as I walked through our shared hallway, but I saw how Ori was reacting to him—her head bowed, her hand rubbing her brow. She was upset, and that was enough to make me see red.

So, I left Braden hanging mid-sentence and rushed intoOne More Pageto protect my girl.

I think she appreciated it, too, even if I didn’t intend to say all that aloud.

Now, it’s back to work. Or, as I lovingly call it, the insanity of my life.

“Everything okay?” Braden inquires as I walk into Black Lotus. “You rushed out of here like your bike was on fire.”

“Shut the fuck up. Why would you put that out there?” I shoot my brother a look of death, shuddering inwardly at the very thought. After everything I’ve gone through with my ride, I’m getting buried with her. No joke.

“Just saying. Relax.”

“Some sleazy property investor came to speak with Ori about selling her house. I intervened.”

“Does she want to sell?”

“No, but she gets overwhelmed. Who wouldn’t, right? I assured the schmuck that Ori and I have it covered.”

Braden’s grin widens. “Knew it.”

“Knew what?”

“You’ve fallen for Ori.”

“Whatever, man.”

“That’s not a no.” He chuckles, dodging the paper cup I lob at his head.

The truth is, I have fallen for her. Hard and fast, and there’s no going back. I tried everything to avoid love, but it turns out love is one hell of a huntress.

I hate I couldn’t say it back to Ori when she told me she loved me in Florida, but I had to let it sink in. Marinate on the idea that I could love again like I did with Lucille.

That’s not right either, because this is bigger than that love. Deeper.

I’m so fucked.

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