Page 62 of Power Play Pursuit

I hold her close, embracing her like a long-lost treasure. I love the way her body fits into my arms. This is probably the best hug of my life, enveloping me in the same comfort as my Grandma’s hug, but meaning something totally different. It lasts for a solid three Mississippis, which leaves my heart pounding like a jackhammer in my chest. Never doubt the power of a hug. Sometimes, it’s even better than a kiss.

“Sleep tight, Elizabeth,” I say softly when we finally break the embrace.

She looks at me again, a small smile pulling at her lips. “Good night, James.”

27

"How else does he have to demonstrate that he's perfect for you?"

Beth Bowen

Last night was close.Soclose. I really thought James was going to kiss me, and if he had, I would have let him. The fact that he pulled back only made me fall for him a little more. Frankly, I don’t know why I didn’t just go for it myself. Fear, maybe? Not of James, or how good we’d be together, because living with him has shown me how compatible we are. No. My fear comes from whether I’m capable of once again dating a man who’s under the spotlight and playing such a grueling game. In any case, I’m glad I went for the hug. My first James Adler hug did not disappoint, and somehow, it felt even closer than a kiss. Being in his arms just felt right.

Skincare Night was even more fun with James. It’s refreshing to be with a man who’s willing to try new things and support my passions, not the other way around. Lucas never wanted to do things I liked. It was always about his hobbies, his passions, and me following behind.

But even after last night, I’m still visiting that apartment this afternoon. Who knows? It might be a good fit. The fact that James is tagging along will only make it more fun.

I head to work early to open the shop, and Marissa joins me two hours later.

“Here comes the bride,” Marissa calls out in a singsong voice right as I put a new batch of brownies in the oven.

“Hey,” Hayley chirps from the doorway. “How are you guys?”

“We’re great,” I say, walking from the backroom. “How are you, with the big day coming up?”

“Good. Stressed.” She sighs, rubbing a hand over her pink hair. “Well, as stressed as any bride with a demanding mom would be.”

Marissa winces before grabbing a cup to start prepping Hayley’s usual coffee. “Ouch.”

“Is she still bugging you aboutthe dress?” I ask, leaning over the counter. Hayley doesn't really do dresses. She has some body complexes—who doesn’t?—and wearing dresses only makes them worse.

She sits at the counter. “Nope, that drama is over. Now it's the no-makeup that’s giving her a few new gray hairs.”

“I'm sorry,” Marissa says, placing her coffee in front of her. “You don’t need makeup. You’re gorgeous.”

“Except I actually might budge on that one, which is annoying me even more. Look who decided to show up,” she says, turning her face to show us a large zit on her cheek.”

Marissa shakes her head, giving her a pitying look. “That sucks.”

“Oh!” I clasp my hands in front of me. “Maybe you won’t need that makeup. I have the perfect product, if you want it. That pimple will be gone in a couple of days.”

“Of course you do,” Marissa says with a chuckle. “You could be a beautician at this point.”

I bow, relishing the compliment. “Don't worry, it’s all natural,” I add when I notice Hayley’s hesitation. “James was skeptical too, but I wore him down. We did the full beauty routine last night.”

“Ohh,” Marissa exclaims. “So that’s why you’re glowing! I thought you and James finally kissed or something.”

Hayley’s brown eyes stretch wide. “What!”

“Marissa,” I scold. “We haven't kissed. Will you let it go already?”

She pins me with a stare. “Beth, the guy did a fullskincare routinewith you last night. How else does he have to demonstrate that he's perfect for you?”

My whole body is suddenly burning, and my mind goes back to that hug, back to the fire I saw in his eyes, mirroring the one I felt raging inside of me.

“See?” she presses. “You’re not denying it. Trust me on this, Beth. The only person who hasn’t realized James is the man for you, is you.”

My face warms, and I swallow to wet my dry throat. “I don’t—”

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