Page 72 of Breaking Rules

“I shouldn’t have done that.”

A bitter laugh escapes me as I give her a once-over. “Do you regret it? Was this a mistake?”

With a single step closer, she brushes the hair from my eyes.“I could never regret kissing you,” she confesses. “And you’re not a mistake.”

I wind my arms around her waist, pulling her to me. My body is desperate for her, my skin buzzing for more. Instead of doing what I really want to do, I hold her close and relish the way she buries her face in my chest. Holding her like this is peaceful and pleasant, like a sunny day after weeks of rain.

“Milo is still here,” she whispers against my pec. “He probably thinks we’ve lost our minds.”

A low chuckle rumbles from my throat as I look down at her. Her deep blue pools shine brightly as she stares back at me.

“Or he’s wondering whether we’re ever going to wash his paws.”

Her lips stretch into a genuine smile, and she takes a tentative step back.

“Go,” I say. “I’ll take care of Milo.”

“You sure?” She nibbles on her bottom lip.

“Yes.” I nod at her translucent T-shirt. “Like you said, you better change.”

Bella glances at her chest, and when she looks up, to my surprise, she’s grinning. “Don’t tell me you weren’t enjoying the view.”

“Of course I was.” I lick my lips, taking advantage of the moment and getting one more peek in.

“Good to know.” With a wink, she’s gone.

When I’m alone, I brace myself against the wall and bow my head.

I don’t do relationships. I fuck.

But that kiss? Hands down the best kiss of my life.

CHAPTER24

KEEP YOUR EYES ON ME

BELLA

October

With a spoon in my mouth,I head to my bedroom, carrying the pint of ice cream. I stop abruptly when my eyes lock on Xander in the foyer. He’s looking absolutely delicious in a white shirt, black pants, a black buttoned jacket, and a duffel bag in his hand.

It’s not fucking fair to be that gorgeous.

I pop the spoon out of my mouth. “Leaving already?”

Goodness, Bella, as if it’s not obvious.

“Yeah, my flight is in two hours.” His gaze drops to the chocolate ice cream in my hand. “Looks like we’ll need to restock when I’m back tomorrow.”

“I’ll buy groceries while you’re away. Don’t worry about stuff like that. You have a game to win. Focus on that.”

“Will you turn on your phone?”

I frown, a droplet of water sliding down my fingers as the ice cream starts to melt. “No…why?”

“So I can call and make sure you and Milo are okay.”

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