Page 71 of Worth the Fall

"What now?" Becca asks, trying to peek at my screen. "What did he say this time?"

I clutch my phone to my chest, shaking my head furiously. "Nope. Nope. You are not seeing this one."

Her eyes narrow, and then her face twists into an exaggerated grimace. "If it's worse than the last one, I don't want to see it. But judging by how red you are, it's probably completely filthy."

"It's not filthy," I protest weakly. "It's… suggestive."

She snorts, crossing her arms. "You know, for a lawyer, you're a terrible liar. Your whole face is on fire."

I stand up abruptly, grabbing my purse and trying to act casual. "Well, I think that's my cue to head home."

"Uh-huh." Becca's smirk is knowing. "And this sudden need to leave has nothing to do with Miguel?"

"None whatsoever," I say primly, though we both know it's a lie.

She waves me off, laughing. "Alright, go. But don't come crying to me tomorrow when you're exhausted because you stayed up all night doing… whatever it is you two do."

"Goodbye, Becca," I call over my shoulder, already heading for the door.

"Goodbye, Mia!" she shouts after me, her voice full of amusement. "And tell my almost-brother-in-law to keep his pants on next time!"

I laugh despite myself, shaking my head as I step out into the night. The air is cool against my flushed skin, and anticipation curls low in my belly as I think about Miguel waiting for me.

By the time I get home, I've stopped trying to suppress the giddy feeling bubbling up inside me. Miguel's words replay in my mind, making my pulse race. As I unlock my door, I know one thing for sure; tonight is going to be… eventful.

And honestly? I can't wait.

CHAPTER 16

Miguel

I’m leaning against my truck, my arms crossed, my gaze fixed on the corner of the street where Mia always appears. My heart races with anticipation. I know she’s expecting me, but there’s something different about tonight. Something electric.

When she finally turns the corner, her bag slung over her shoulder, her steps quick but light, my chest tightens. She sees me almost immediately, and her face lights up, a wide smile spreading across her lips.

"You’re early," she calls out as she approaches, her voice carrying that teasing edge I love so much.

I push off the truck, meeting her halfway. "I couldn’t wait," I admit, my tone low and unapologetic.

She grins, standing close enough that I can see the pink flush of her cheeks. "I like this new side of you," she says, tilting her head.

My brow arches as I slide my hands into my pockets, leaning slightly closer. "What side is that?"

She bites her lip, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "The bold, bossy, possessive side. Not exactly the kind, sweet, and caring single daddy I met at the pickleball court."

A slow, wicked grin spreads across my face. "You have no idea."

Her smile falters just slightly, the playful teasing giving way to something deeper, something raw.

I step closer, my voice dropping to a low murmur. "You’re right, Mia. I am possessive. Knowing what I have with you, knowing what this is… I’ll do everything in my power to protect it. To protect you."

Her breath catches, her hand gripping the strap of her bag as she looks up at me. "Miguel…"

I brush my knuckles along her jaw, the softness of her skin making my heart race. "And the man you see outside—the lawyer, the single dad? That’s not the same man who wants to devour you."

Her lips part, her cheeks flushing, but she doesn’t look away.

"Let me show you," I say, my voice rough, the words hanging between us like a challenge.

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