Page 67 of Wild Tangled Hearts

Our faces draw closer, and before I know it, our lips meet in a sweet, lingering kiss. It's as if the world around us fades, and all that remains is the tender connection we share.

When we pull away, Alex grins mischievously. "I have to say, this art stuff has its perks."

I chuckle, brushing a smear of paint off his cheek. "It certainly does. But don't think it'll get you out of cleaning up afterward."

Alex's expression grows serious as he gazes into my eyes. "Since we’re on the topic of art, I was wondering if you wanted to go to the art gallery this weekend."

"You’re not art-ed out after all this?" I tease.

"My sister is flying in from Denver, and I thought it would be great if you could meet her. She's an art enthusiast, too, and I think you two would get along well."

The thought of meeting his sister fills me with excitement and nerves, but I can't help but smile. "I'd love to."

“Good.” His eyes lock onto mine with an intensity that sends shivers down my spine. It's a look that feels like an electric current, a magnetic force pulling me closer. In his gaze, I see desire, a hunger that mirrors my own, and it makes my heart race.

Our lips meet in a lingering kiss, like the soft brushstrokes of a masterpiece just beginning to take shape. It's a kiss filled with sweetness, a tender exploration of each other's desires. Mouths moving in perfect harmony, savoring the moment, as if time has slowed down just for us. The kiss deepens, growing more heated every second.

I'm left breathless as he pulls away, a sly grin on his lips. "After all this painting, I think we both need a shower."

His words, laced with a hint of seduction, send a playful jolt of anticipation through me. I meet his gaze, my own eyes dancing with mischief. "Hmm, and what do you have in mind for this shower?"

Alex leans in closer, his voice a low, husky whisper. "I feel like I didn’t get to show you how creative I can be."

“A shower sounds intriguing. But I've heard the bedroom offers even more creative options."

He groans softly, a mischievous glint in his eyes as he scoops me up, his strong arms cradling me. With a teasing smile, he asks, "Ladies' choice. Bed or shower?"

My heart races as I weigh the tantalizing possibilities, knowing that whichever option I choose, it will be a night to remember.

Reader’s Choice:

What should Bella do next?

Step into the tantalizing steam of the shower and let Alex's imagination take you on a seductive journey. Turn to this page.

Forgo the shower and plunge headlong into the sheets with Alex. Turn to this page.

Chapter31

Alex

PLAYFUL CURRENTS

Beingjust friendswith Alex is like walking an emotional tightrope. Every moment spent together deepens our connection, but I also fear the risk of heartbreak. I hang on to his every word and analyze every interaction, torn between wanting more and treasuring our friendship. It's a delicate balance that can be both exhilarating and tormenting, a constant reminder that my heart doesn't want to follow the rules of friendship.

"So, what do you think?" Alex asks, his hazel eyes twinkling with humor as we sit in our usual spot at the Artful Bean. It's become an after-school ritual, a comforting routine that I look forward to each day. “Bella?”

“Yeah?”

He chuckles. “Did you hear anything I said?”

“Sorry. I’m a bit distracted today.” Today, yesterday, every day that I’m with him. I find myself struggling to focus on the conversation. It's more than just his eyes; it's the way he smiles, the way his laughter sends a warm shiver down my spine. It's how his voice drops slightly when he shares something personal, making me feel like I'm the only person in the room. Every stolen glance and every accidental touch between us ignites a different kind of longing. It's a magnetic pull that I can't deny, a physical ache deep within my chest.

“I was asking if you want to visit the Art Gallery this weekend.” He smiles, displaying those deep dimples. “I heard there’s a new exhibit.”

My breath catches for a moment as I contemplate his offer. "Won't you be bored?" I inquire hesitantly.

Once again, those dimples flash and my heart does somersaults. "I'm never bored when I'm with you," he says with a sincerity that sends a rush of warmth through me. "And I love the way your eyes light up when you talk about art."

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