Page 13 of Nate

Markie took a deep breath and blew it out.

“Please, call me Markie.”

“Thanks, I just might do that, Markie.”

She frowned, then made her way toward the doors before she did something stupid like jump his bones.

****

Nate watched as she stormed away, wondering what he had done to upset her. Taking a deep breath, he followed after her.

“Markie,” he called out, causing her to stop and turn around to face him.

“What?” she asked impatiently.

Nate placed his hands on his hips. “Why do you seem to have a problem with me?”

“I don’t have a problem with you,” she replied.

“Then why do you act like you can’t get away from me fast enough? Did I offend you in some way?”

“No,” she answered dismissively, turning to leave.

“Are you sure about that? Since we met, you’ve treated me like I’m contagious or something.”

“You appear way too cocky,” Markie explained.

“Cocky? How so?” Nate challenged.

“It’s the way you come off. Like every woman should fall at your feet.”

“That’s bullshit,” Nate retorted.

“You asked for my honest opinion, and I gave it to you,” Markie snapped.

“So, you dislike me because I...appearcocky to you?” Nate clarified.

“I didn’t say I dislike you. I don’t really care about you one way or another,” Markie stated.

“Sounds like someone did a number on you,” Nate remarked quietly. “So much that you hate any man who exhibits confidence.”

“I don’t hate all men. Just the arrogant ones who think they’re God’s gift to women,” Markie corrected. “My mother’s husband is the same way.”

“What did he do to you?” Nate probed gently.

“Nothing,” Markie said, trying to leave again, but this time Nate grabbed her arm. She glared at him. “Let go of me,” she snarled.

Nate raised his hands in surrender. “I’m sorry. I just want to understand. I’d like to get to know you.”

“I’m sure you have plenty of women lining up for that opportunity,” Markie retorted.

“Damn it, woman. I don’t. I happen to be a one-woman man, and I have never been with more than one at a time,” Nate declared. “If you don’t believe me, ask Sydney about me. She’ll tell you I’m nothing like what you’re accusing me of being. And if your stepfather—”

“Donotcall him my stepfather!” Markie snapped, cutting him off. “He’s four years younger than I am. Whenever I visit, he can’t seem to keep his hands off me. He won’t take no for an answer. I hate men like him.”

“And you think I’m like him?” Nate asked incredulously. “Do you really believe that?”

Markie took a deep breath, clearly flustered. “It doesn’t matter. I have to go.”

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