Page 77 of Chasing Sarah

This unbelievably beautiful man is a danger to my heart, but I can’t seem to stick to my guns about keeping him away.

He studies my face as though committing it to memory.

“Rhys,” I whisper.

Our bodies seem to unconsciously move closer until my breasts brush against his bare chest. My entire body comes alive when I watch the widening of his pupils.

The beat of my heart is a base drum in my ears. Echoing uncontrollably in my chest, reminding me just how affected I am by this man.

We startle when his phone begins to ring. The bubble that formed around us bursts.

My eyes flutter as I’m thrown back into reality. I pull away from him and make my way over to my things. I slide my gym bag over my shoulder and head toward the elevator that will take me back to the penthouse.

“Sarah, wait,” he calls out, but I ignore him. The draw I have toward him is too strong. I need to leave and get my head on straight if I’m going to survive staying with him for the time being.

* * *

I swipe my hand across the condensation that covers the bathroom mirror. My reflection stares back at me but I only see a lost and confused woman. The one who doesn’t seem to be able to get her shit together no matter what she does.

I’ve managed to avoid Rhys for about an hour. But I know it’s only a matter of time before he confronts me about what happened in the gym.

The line between lust and love is blurring.

Every minute I spend with him does something to me. He makes me feel things I’m scared to feel. Dangerous things.

I’m not ready for it.

I’m not ready to let him in. It’s so much easier to pretend my mind, body, and soul aren’t yearning for him.

Sighing, I swing open the door and go about my post-shower routine. It isn’t long before I hear the thump of Rhys’ boots on the tile flooring just outside the bedroom door.

My throat tightens when they halt on the other side. Time stops and I forget how to breathe as I wait for him to decide whether he plans to enter.

His shadow moves low to the ground before he rises his steps retreat. Relief and disappointment swirl in my chest.

Not wanting to bring focus to the confusing emotions that keep making their appearance, I wait until I’m sure I won’t come face-to-face with Rhys before striding over and opening the door.

A single rose lies on the floor with a note.

I pick them up and bring the rose to my nose, breathing in the floral scent. I can’t help but feel touched by the small gesture.

Mo réalta,

I have to go take care of some things for a few hours. I will be back as soon as I can.

Yours,

Rhys

My fingers lightly trace the wordYours. Warmth spreads through my blood.

Damn this man.

Why can’t he just be an asshole looking to get laid? Why does he feel the need to make me feel wanted?

The door closes with a quiet click when I step back into the room. My conflicting emotions need to be put in check before he returns.

* * *