Page 94 of Crossing Lines

“Hey,” I mutter to draw her attention.

She twists with a straight face that I’m not used to.

I enter the room, flicking my nails. “Um, I know you’re disappointed in me for being with Kross. But… I want you to know I never sought out falling for him. We connected on a deep level that I’ve—”

“Spare me, Davia,” she hisses. “I don’t want to hear your bullshit reason for stealing the man I’ve loved for years.” She turns her back, resuming what she’s doing.

As I’m about to make another attempt, the head of merchandise enters with her assistant. I take my leave and return to my work area.

Maybe in time, Iree will understand, and we can be friends again.

I return to my office and retrieve my phone to text Jamir.

Me: Can we talk?

As time passes, with my message remaining on read, I realize it’s probably for the best. No explanation will end Jamir’s hurt. The truth is out. I’ll continue to trust my heart and move forward.

THIRTY-SIX

Davia opens the door, looking like the sexiest woman on the planet, in a black lace mini-dress that accentuates her impeccable curves and matching stilettos, which almost puts her at my height.

“Damn! Baby, you’re perfect. You look so good. This your creation?”

“Mmhm.” She giggles while spinning and fluffing her gorgeous curls. “You like it?”

“I love it,” I groan, rubbing my chin. “I’m ready to take you to bed and fuck you in the dress.”

“Nope. I’m hungry.”

“All right. Let me put some food in you so I can feed you something else later.”

She shakes her head at me, grabs her jacket, and locks up. Walking to my car, I open the passenger door for her before hurrying to the driver’s side.

“Sure you don’t need to be at the club tonight?” she checks as I pull onto the road. “I don’t want you ignoring business for me.”

I click my tongue. “Listen to me, Davi. A real man will always make time for the woman he cares about. The club won’t fall apart if I’m not there. I told you I’m taking the night off.”

“Okay.”

I feel her watching me and look over. “Sup, baby?”

“You’re just very attentive,” she praises sweetly.

Holding her hand, I kiss the back and squeeze it on my thigh. “You deserve all my attention. I promise I won’t make you regret giving me a chance.”

I bring her to a southern-style restaurant with great vegan dishes, and we talk and laugh while drinking wine and enjoying the delicious food.

After dinner, we cruise around the city until an impulse makes me ask, “How bout a quick ride to Annapolis?”

Davia snorts. “That isn’t quick, but I don’t mind. I like spending time with you.”

I smile at her and take the exit out of Baltimore. Reaching Annapolis half an hour later, I continue toward Hillsmere Shores and turn into the quiet area, stopping at the building site.

“Whose property is this?” she questions while staring out the window into the dark. “Why did we come here?”

“You asked me about my dreams,” I remind her. “This is one. This is what I was celebrating at the restaurant.”

She looks at me, her eyes darkened by the night. “What do you mean? This isyourhouse?”

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