Page 3 of Wild Tangled Hearts

The joyful laughter of a child diverts my attention. I turn just in time to see the boy lose his grip on a colorful balloon, and it floats away, threatening to take his happiness with it.

Without a second thought, I spring into action, determined to save the day. I rush toward the escaping balloon, my fingers brushing its string as I make a desperate grab. But in my earnest attempt, I step off the curb, oblivious to the oncoming traffic.

Just as my heart leaps into my throat, a silver Mercedes screeches to a halt inches from me, the driver forcefully hitting the brakes. Time seems to slow as I meet the incredulous gaze of the man behind the wheel, his gorgeous, dark brown eyes holding a mix of concern and anger.

Slamming the door, the man exits his car. “Are you out of your mind? You could’ve been hurt!”

I blink, realizing the gravity of my impulsive act. “I just...I didn’t want the kid to lose his balloon.”

His eyes widen, then shift to the balloon and back at me before shaking his head.

It gives me a second to return the balloon to its relieved owner. The boy looks up at me with a grateful smile before he and his mom continue on their way.

“I hope your car is alright,” I say, glancing around him at the expensive vehicle that definitely costs more than my annual salary.

“I don’t care about the car,” he says, stepping closer. “I could have hurt you, or worse.”

“I’m fine.”

The man's gaze captivates me with his enigmatic charm. His tailored suit highlights the strength of his broad shoulders, and his dark scruff adds a touch of ruggedness to his polished appearance. But it’s those eyes, deep, dark and mysterious, that draw me in like a moth to a flame.

He clears his throat. “You know,” he begins, “risking your life for a balloon is a new one on me.”

“Yeah, not my best decision, I admit.”

He extends his hand. “I’m Sebastian.”

As I reach out to shake his palm, a subtle but electrifying sensation courses through me. His touch is warm and confident, sending a delightful shiver up my arm. It’s a feeling that goes beyond mere politeness; there’s an undeniable connection, an unspoken spark that leaves me with a flutter in my chest.

“I’m Bella.”

“Bella,” he utters my name, savoring it like a delectable flavor on his tongue. Soft, sensual, and my entire body ignites with warmth. Hand still firmly grasping mine, his dark eyes pierce my soul. “That was quite an introduction.”

“Yes,” I murmur, fully aware that I’d repeat that solitary word endlessly in his presence.

“I’m late for an appointment. Can I give you my number…” He gives a confident, sexy grin. “As a precaution if you decide to chase after another balloon?” He leans closer, dark eyes twinkling with promise. “Or in case you’d like to have dinner with me sometime.”

“Okay,” I say, handing him my phone, and he adds his number.

He shoots me a smoldering look before getting into his car.

And with that, he drives away, leaving me with a racing heart and the tantalizing possibility of yet another unexpected romance in the making.

Is there some sort of hot guy convention in town that I wasn’t aware of? Three swoonworthy men in one day? The last hour of my life felt like a meet-cute marathon in a romance novel. But who am I to complain? It’s the most excitement I’ve had in forever.

I look at my phone, which now holds the numbers of Alex, Damien, and Sebastian, each offering a unique flavor of intrigue and temptation.

Who will I call?

With a bemused shake of my head, I can’t help but wonder if fate has played matchmaker, and I’m merely along for the ride. As I make my way home, the possibilities and uncertainties of this unexpected romantic adventure continue to dance through my mind, leaving me both exhilarated and utterly perplexed.

Reader’s Choice:

Who should Bella go on a date with?

Alex:the rugged outdoorsman with dimples and a heart of gold. Turn to this page.

Damien:the mysterious bad boy who rides a motorcycle but has a soft side. Turn to this page.

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