Page 45 of Total Shutdown

I can feel the heat as it warms my cheeks. “Rarely.”

An appreciative rumble emanates from his chest. “But you can be kind.”

I throw him a questioning look.

“You could’ve charged him, but you didn’t.”

I’m not from a wealthy background. My parents died, leaving me with next to nothing, and the money my grandparents left was everything they’d had in the world, including a few pensions. But my family were good people, and my parents had scrimped and saved to pay for my expensive motocross habit. When my grandparents died and I was left alone, riding open roads was one of the only ways I could find peace, and when I was eighteen, I rescued my first Road Glide and carefully put her back together—a little like myself, I guess.

“Where’s your head at, Collins?” Sawyer asks, now standing in front of me.

I was so deep in thought that I didn’t notice him round the counter.

“I can be kind when I want to be,” I breathe, instantly affected by his proximity and cologne.

His smile turns sweeter, although the playful edge remains. “How about you maintain your streak of kindness, grab your jacket, and let me take you out?”

I glance down at my overalls, and when I raise my eyes back to his, I see the desire behind them.

“Let me quickly change out of these and freshen up.”

He reaches up and tucks a lock of hair behind my ear, the rough pad of his thumb grazing the shell.

“You do that. I’ll go warm up my truck.”

CHAPTERSEVENTEEN

SAWYER

Jack

All right, so I want to plan a house party to celebrate Kendra making Team USA. It’s been a long time coming for her, and I can’t let the moment pass silently.

Archer

Curious question, but is there anything you do silently?

Jack

All are invited, except Archer.

Archer

When you say “all,” does this include your sister?

Jack

So, I checked with Jon, and he tells me they can call up the farm team goalie. Apparently, the death of ours won’t be missed.

Archer

Taking the high ground. When is this party you speak of?

Jack

I’m thinking this Saturday since we head on a seven-day away series straight after.

And, yes, Archer, her entire football squad will be there for you to fawn over.

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