Page 9 of Love, A Curvy Girl's Guide

But as she returned to her work, Haley couldn't shake the feeling that something fundamental had shifted between them. Something had changed back in college when she kissed him—something they had never talked about, and she didn't even like thinking about it. But she had to admit, never before and never since had she ever been so shaken up over a kiss. And despite herbest efforts, a small part of her was curious—maybe even excited—to see where it might lead.

No—that was insanity talking. She didn't want Ian Johnson in any way, shape, or form.

Two hours later, the bell above the pharmacy door chimed, indicating there was yet another customer, pulling Haley's attention from her inventory list. A burly man with a scruffy beard sauntered in, his eyes immediately landing on her. Haley straightened, plastering on her professional smile.

"Welcome to Oakridge Pharmacy. How can I help you today?"

The man leaned against the counter, the smell of alcohol and cigarettes wafting off him. "Well, aren't you a sight for sore eyes? How about you and me grab a drink after your shift?"

Haley's smile tightened. "I'm flattered, but I'm here to assist with prescriptions. Did you need to pick something up?"

"Come on, sweetheart. Don't be like that," he persisted, reaching across the counter and touching her arm.

Just then, Ian's voice cut through the tension. "Is there a problem here?"

Haley's eyes flickered to Ian, a mix of relief and annoyance washing over her. She didn't need rescuing, but his presence was undeniably comforting.

The customer turned, sizing Ian up. "This ain't your business, pal."

Ian's jaw clenched, his eyes cold. "When you're bothering a woman who doesn't want the attention, it becomes my business."

Haley intervened, her voice firm. "Gentlemen, this is a place of business. Sir, if you don't have a prescription to pick up, I'll have to ask you to leave."

The man glanced between them, muttering under his breath as he backed away. Ian's steely gaze followed him until he was out the door.

As the tension dissipated, Haley turned to Ian. "I had that under control, you know."

Ian's expression softened slightly. "I know you did. But I couldn't just stand by and watch."

Haley sighed, conflicted. "I appreciate the concern, but I'm not some damsel in distress."

"Trust me, I know that." Ian chuckled, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "But sometimes it's nice to know someone has your back."

Their eyes met again, and Haley felt a flutter in her chest. She quickly looked away, busying herself with straightening some pamphlets.

"So," Ian said, leaning on the counter, "are you okay?"

The scent of citrus and sandalwood washed over her. It was a far cry from the pushy man who'd just left. Why did Ian have to be so damned appealing?

Ian winked at her, a mischievous grin playing on his lips. "You know, Haley, I'm starting to think trouble follows you around like a lost puppy."

Haley rolled her eyes, but a reluctant smile tugged at her lips. "Oh, please, if anyone's the magnet for chaos here, it's you, Mr. Hero Complex. Always rushing in to save the day, aren't you?"

"What can I say?" Ian shrugged, his grin widening. "It's a tough job, but someone's gotta do it."

They both laughed, the sound mingling in the air between them. For a moment, it felt strangely easy—comfortable, almost. But beneath the surface, an undercurrent of tension hummed, electric and undeniable.

"Well," Ian said, straightening up, "I should probably get going. Try not to get into any more trouble while I'm gone, okay?"

"No promises," Haley retorted, waving him off with a smirk.

As the door closed behind Ian, Haley's smile faded. She leaned against the counter, her heart still racing. Damn it, she thought. Why does he still have this effect on me?

"Earth to Haley." Verity's voice cut through her reverie. "You okay there, boss?"

Haley blinked, realizing she'd been staring at the door. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just... thinking."

Verity raised an eyebrow, a knowing smirk on her face. "Uh-huh. Thinking about tall, dark, and heavily muscled, I bet."

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