Page 67 of Crossing Lines

As I start moving in for a long-awaited kiss, her focus catches something behind me, and she scurries to her feet. “Iree’s here.”

I glance at the security camera, seeing Iree with her friends. “So what?”

“Fuck.” Davia touches her temples. “What did you do to me? I can’t think straight when I’m with you. And you haunt me when I’m not.”

I stand and take her hands. “Because you want me. But you’re afraid, so you keep fighting it.”

The closeness has us breathing hard. I consider leaning in for a kiss, but doubt clouds her gaze again, and she pulls away. “I have to go.”

“Don’t leave. Stay and talk to me.”

“Kross, I can’t.” She rushes out the door.

I chase after her, stalling when I realize she’s ducking through the crowd to avoid Iree, head low until she reaches the exit. Davia probably doesn’t want her co-worker and friend thinking less of her for chilling with me when she’s still in a relationship. But regardless, I won’t stop until she’s mine.

TWENTY-FIVE

Kross truly won’t back down. That’s evident in the gorgeous pink and cream orchids waiting for me.

I stare at my favorite flower for seconds before sitting behind my desk. Reaching for the accompanying slice of vegan strawberry shortcake, I read the handwritten French phrase into my phone to translate it. “Bonne journée, ma belle.Have a nice day, beautiful.”

The thoughtful gesture and note are a sweet way to start the day, especially after battling my yearning for him all night.

A huge part of me wants Kross, but I’m worried it’s only a temporary attraction that isn’t worth ending my relationship or hurting Iree.

Wanting to thank him, I text instead of call. I’m afraid hearing his voice will make me weak.

Me: Thank you for the

orchids and sweet treat.

I stare at the screen, waiting for him to text back. A nervous breath trickles out as the phone vibrates in my hand. Kross is calling me.

Heart racing, I clear my throat and answer. “Hi.”

“Good morning. You’re welcome.”

“You could have just texted.”

He chuckles softly. “Nah, I want to hear your voice. You have plans later?”

“Why?”

“Hang out with me. I’m taking the night off.”

I squeeze my eyes shut while fighting the urge to accept. “Um, I should focus on my relationship. I owe it to the connection we had to make every last effort.”

His agitated huffs fill the line. “Fuck, Davi. Why are you forcing yourself to stay? He doesn’t even make an effort for you. Why do you want that misery?”

“Kross, you don’t understand. I’ve known Jamir for five years. I barely know you after two weeks.”

“You already know the painful parts and the happier side,” he rasps. “You’ll learn way more when you spend time with me. You can’t deny that there’s something intense, and it isn’t just an attraction.”

My heart is telling me he’s right.

“If you can’t see me later, come to the club Friday night. Check out the performance.”

“I’m seeing Jamir Friday,” I reply. “It’s date night.”

---