Page 34 of Fighting

Pulling out my phone, I quickly tap the make and model of the car into the browser.

Once I've hit enter, I suck in a sharp breath.

“You just so happened to own Elle Woods’s car from theLegally Blonde 2?” I snap my head up and blink. Being around this man causes my pulse to thump everywhere. This is no coincidence. He knows I idolize her. We share an alma mater, and we’re both girly blondes, with personal characteristics that cause people to underestimate intelligence.

The package he had delivered a few days ago included two extremely beautifully crafted and discreet pieces of jewelry. A set of pink silicone stacked bracelets connected by a delicate rose gold chain engraved withIvyand a necklace adorned with a long, skinny pendant. It didn’t take long to discover the power button. After that, I assumed that luxury cuffs and a vibrator were the height of amazing and inappropriate gifts from him—and no, I did not return them; the box I left at his house was full of the toys he purchased at the mall—but I was so, so wrong.

Circling the car while I fiddle with the bracelets, I focus on self-talk to calm my raw nerves. A gift like this doesn’t have to be a trap. Even so, there’s a voice in the back of my head reminding me that he’s a rich real estate guy, trying to solve my problemswith fancy gifts. Why would he do it if not to ensure that I’ll owe him?

“Happy coincidence,” he says with a dismissive wave.

Forcing a breath in and out, I accept the car—for the moment.

“It’s got all-wheel drive, so it’s safe to drive in the snow. Do me a favor: drive this for the next few weeks so I know you can get places safely while I’m in and out of meetings.”

When I narrow my eyes at him in response, he crosses his arms over his chest, causing his muscles to pull his fitted dress shirt even tighter.

I roll through the options in my head. I could argue with him, which could be fun. Or I could accept the offer graciously and drive this sexy little convertible while I figure out my next steps.

I hum and tap my lips to hide a smirk.

“Either way, we’re rolling up to dinner in this tonight. I reserved the private dining room at The Featherweight. The council wants to discuss the festival and the north side sale, so give me a little spin.” He holds a finger up and twirls it. “Let’s see how you clean up, and let’s head out.”

As I do a quick spin, he makes a loud hum while holding his chin like he’s thinking hard. Eyes darting from one spot to another, like they’re not sure where to linger, he loosens his collar and lets out a sigh.

If I can’t hide my giggles, I can at least turn away. I walk to the driver’s side and peer through the window.

The moment I open the door to slide behind the steering wheel, all my indecision evaporates. The soft leather is stitched like an engraving over the doors, steering wheel, and center console accents. This car is sexy. Damn.

When Mateo finally lowers himself into the seat next to me, I give him a quick wink.

“How’s my passenger princess?” I tease. “How can we service you tonight?”

“We?” His eyebrows rise.

“That’s it? No jokes about servicing you? Wow, this must be a powerful car. I like her.” I slide a hand over the leather once more, barely holding back a purr of appreciation.

“Yes. We’re a team now. You’re right; I deserve the fancy Elle car.” I turn the engine on and rev it once for good measure before backing out and heading to River’s place.

When we slow to navigate the center of town, Mateo hits a button that lowers the gray top, making it extremely easy to be spotted. This is the first time since the Springer’s announcement that we’ve been seen out together.

“Windows down and heat on in the fall is the best.” He leans forward and taps a button on the console. “There. Your seat warmer is on now. You’ll be super comfortable and also get the breeze and the sunlight.”

I side-eye him quickly, then force my focus back to the road. I hate to admit it, but it’s perfect. Cozy.

He once again insists on opening my door, even though I’m the driver. So while I wait for him to round the hood, I flip down the visor and use the mirror to reapply my lip gloss.

Delia has a point.For someone who is not interested in dating Mateo, you sure seem to be interested in flirting with him, annoying him, and looking good around him.I close my eyes, desperate to shut down the little voice in my head that is making this something it absolutely is not.

My door opens, and with a half-bow, Mateo extends a hand.

Biting back a grin, I take it and let him guide me out. My outfit tonight is cozy but feels extremely sexy. The cropped sweater with a mock neck is a rich cranberry. My breasts are well contained, but it’s not possible to ever hide their size. The sliver of my midriff that shows when I move my arms is flirty withoutdrawing overt attention. The A-line windowpane plaid skirt that falls to just above my knee balances things well, creating an hourglass shape and making things overall less scandalous. The neutral colors balance well with the color of the top. I finished the look off with my trusty Docs and high socks slouched over like the ’80s.

Hand in hand, we cross the gravel parking lot and ascend the stone walkway to the hostess stand. Kyle, Delia’s least favorite server, is working the front of house tonight. She must be thrilled; this keeps him out of her hair.

“Nessa. Great to see you.” He greets me with open arms.

For a moment, Mateo’s hold on my hand tightens, but he quickly releases me.

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