Page 21 of The Neighbor's Son

“Do you like chocolate?” I ask, arching an eyebrow.

She throws her head back and laughs. “Who doesn’t love chocolate?”

Our eyes meet and hers are filled with joy. I made her happy. Me.

I poke at the chocolate dessert with a fork and then reach across to offer her a bite. Rather than take the fork, she leans forward and wraps her lips around it. Her eyes never leave mine as she pulls away. The whole thing is hot as fuck, and I’m left speechless.

“You’re killing me, babe. Fucking killing me.”

“My turn.”

Who knew being fed cake by a hot ass woman would be so damn thrilling?

I’m falling deep and fast for her.

I’ll have zero hope of ever escaping.

Nor do I want to.

Casey

This whole date is ridiculously romantic. Who knew Brayden Foss had it in him? My heart keeps stuttering inside my chest each time he does something sweet or thoughtful.

Plus, he’s an amazing kisser.

Now that we’ve demolished the cake in the sexiest way ever, I’m dying to taste him again.

“There’s a place through those trees where you can lie down and look straight up to see an unobstructed view of the stars. It’s like you’re in another world.” He grins at me. “Want to check it out?”

He makes the simple things seem fun. I absolutely want to do this with him.

“Show me the way.”

We finish putting the containers away in his bag and blow out the candles. Then, he takes my hand, leading me through a thicket of trees. Something scurries nearby, startling me. Brayden gives my hand a reassuring squeeze that works wonders in making me feel protected.

The small clearing comes into view, and he’s prepared the spot with a blanket spread out on the grass there. He thought of every detail and prepared ahead of time. I’m not sure anyone has gone to such great lengths for a date with me before.

Way to make a girl feel cherished.

“I’ve never brought anyone here before,” he says as we sit on the blanket. “It’s just been my place until now.”

I lie back and look up at the sky. The dark canopy of trees around us only highlights the glittering stars that can be seen from this vantage point. It’s beautiful and serene.

“I love it,” I tell him, unable to tear my gaze from the majestic sight.

“Me too.”

We’re both quiet for several moments as we enjoy the view, hands still conjoined.

“I want to know everything about you, Casey. The good and the bad and even the sad.”

Normally I would clam up because I don’t like talking about the things that hurt, but Brayden relaxes and comforts me. I know I can trust him.

“I’ve had a great life,” I admit with a small smile. “My parents are good, loving people, I have amazing friends like Clara, and I’m doing the career I love.”

The pause after those words is heavy. He knows there’s more and waits patiently for me to confide in him.

“All I needed was my Prince Charming, you now?” I chew on my bottom lip and then sigh. “Trust me, I dated a few frogs at first, so when I met Derek, he felt like a solid choice.”

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