Page 184 of Chasing Sparks

I bark out a dry laugh, shaking my head. “No, he doesn’t. He’s just acting as a well-intentioned human being.”

“Ori, he loves you. You don’t see the way he looks at you, but I do. You’veneverseen it.”

“I wish that were the case, but you’re mistaken, and I have proof.”

Mina cocks her head to the side, her eyes narrowing. “Do tell.”

“Ash has requested that we not mention the baby to anyone. This includes Braden and Lucille. No one can know. Even you and Eddie need to zip your lips.”

Her jaw slackens in disbelief. “How come?”

“You’d have to ask him. I’m simply following orders.”

“That’s kind of messed up, isn’t it?”

“Tell me about it. Likely doesn’t want to kill his groove by having the town catch wind he’s knocked up two women. Even groupies have their limits.”

“Fucking men.”

“Amen.” I take another sip of coffee, desperate to change the topic. “Spill it. What happened with Braden? Why did you leave?”

Mina shrugs, looking down at her hands. “Nothing happened. He’s always nice, but I have to face facts. He thinks I’m too young, and he will not go there. To him, I’m just a kid.”

I set the mug down, leaning forward to intersect her gaze. “Honey, trust me. The only time being too young is an issue is when your fake ID fails you. Otherwise, it’s the most amazing time, and you are beautiful, sweet, and talented. Screw Braden.”

Her lips twitch into a faint smile. “Is that an option?”

“Not a good idea if your heart plans on getting involved.”

Sadly, I know my words are true.

After all, I’m living it.

And it’s a living hell.

Chapter 27

One More Item On The To-Do List

Ash

Ikeep shooting glances out the parlor window, growing more aggravated by the second.

Why?

Because my woman’s truck still sits in the lot.

Even after Dr. Fulton warned her to take it easy. Doesn’t matter if the doctor thinks I’m overreacting. Ori’s safety isn’t negotiable.

I crack my knuckles, the sound echoing through the quiet shop. Time to push Ori’s stubborn ass out the door and back home.

But I don’t make it three steps.

Kevin Duncan strolls through the entrance toBlack Lotuslike he owns the place, his smug expression already setting my teeth on edge.

I freeze, my pulse quickening.

“Be with you in a second,” I bark, my voice tight.

---