Page 41 of Manhattan Secret
Shaking in my booties.
Terrified to be here.
Scared to leave.
The pull is extraordinary.
Like my own body and mind fight against me to make me put on pretty clothes, brush my hair and bring me here against my will.
And when my eyes seek him out on the top floor, my whole stomach drops to my feet.
I told myself if he’s here with his crew, I’ll leave.
But he’s here alone. Slouched as usual, with his legs stretched out in front of him, head held back as if deep in thought.
A minute inches by.
I watch him.
He glances at his phone.
I watch for another minute.
I see him typing fast with his thumbs, god he’s handsome I can hardly stand to look at him for too long yet compelled to. Wearing a backward black cap and his hoodie jacket. And just as he shoves his phone away, mine pings in my hand, making me jump.
Lachlan:Quit perving on me, mouse, and get your sexy butt up here. I’ve waited long enough.
Why, that little sneak, he’s known all along I’m here. My lips spread wide and then I laugh.
I might have been able to resist himmorehad his face only read desire when I reach the top of the stairs. But I see affection there too and that kills me.
I want it so badly I could have squeezed his gorgeous face in my two hands.
It takes a moment for me to compose myself with a few deep breaths, not even sure if I’m staying.
When I approach, he says. “Don’t turn cold, not with me, Laney, we’re more than that, even if you won’t admit it, I’m glad you came, even if you did keep me waiting for fucking hours.”
His strangled demand almost cripples me. The need to protect myself, protect him, protectusfrom making a giant mistake is forefront and I can’t forget that, but it’s unmistakable how I enjoy his assertiveness.
I pick the seat furthest away from him, not that it bothers Lachie who just shuffles over. “How did you know I was here?”
“Saw you sneaking in behind the big, hairy dude.” Damn. “Wondered how long you were gonna stand down there deciding if you were coming to find me.”
“Where are you friends tonight?”
His eyebrow wings up arrogantly, mouth twitching. “Did you want them here, Laney? Didn’t know group activities was your style…”
I roll my eyes as he laughs.
“Do you want a drink?”
“I don’t think alcohol is a good idea.” Or maybe I need five drinks to counteract the pleasure when he starts fingering my neck where the shirt meets my collarbone.
Shivers assault me.
“Are you glad you came?”
“I don’t know.” I answer honestly.
