Page 41 of The Puck Stops Here

‘You’re just doing your job, and I really want to keep doing mine, so…’

‘Is this you calling a truce?’

He sent her a look. Open and vulnerable and hell, if Blake dark and brooding was sexy as fuck, seeing him vulnerable and bowing down was something else. Especially with the way his cheeks had pinked up with the chill, his eyes ever bright.

‘It’s me saying I’m sorry I was a jackass, and yes, I’m agreeing to give you what you need for your article. I can’t promise it’ll come easily but I’ll try.’

‘That’s…’ She wet her lips.Crushing my resolve. Making me like you more. Making me want to explore this connection more.‘That’s great to hear.’

Ugh, that sounded so hollow.

‘The more you give me up front, the sooner I can be done and out of your hair.’

His eyes burned into her. ‘You say that like it’s a good thing…’

‘Well, isn’t it?’

Their breaths curled through the frosty air. She’d said it for his benefit; he was the one so anti this whole thing…

‘I guess,’ he said eventually, turning away and walking on.

It took her another second to move, her body delayed by her brain that wanted to pick apart the moment. Understand him. Understandthis.

Then she saw the electronic billboard up ahead roll around and Aiden filled the screen, his grin lighting up the pavement with his bottled tan of choice in hand…

‘I know we agreed to keep tonight light and about me,’ she said, head shifting into work gear, where it should be, ‘but can I ask you something?’

His mouth twisted. ‘Depends on what it is.’

‘How come your brother is everywhere, and you’re not? I assume the sponsorship deals come your way too…’

He looked up at the flashy advert, a wry smile on his lips. ‘Aiden’s image carries more appeal.’

‘There must be plenty of brands out there wanting to lean into your bad boy rep.’

He flicked her a look that had the heat creeping into her cheeks. Thank God it was cold and her upturned collar hid half of her face. Next time she’d wear a scarf too!

‘Some.’

‘But you don’t do it.’

‘No.’

‘Why is that?’

He shrugged. ‘Just not my scene.’

Sheknewthere was more to that answer. She also knew he wasn’t about to give it.

‘I’m going to need one for the article, if that’s okay?’

‘What? A picture?’

‘Yes.’

‘I said I’d give you what you need, didn’t I?’

‘You did.’ She gave him a small smile. ‘Thank you.’

---