Page 89 of Invisible String
His brows skyrocket. “What’s that supposed to mean?”
With my hands on my hips, I lean into him. “It means it’s not any of your business,” I whisper-shout.
“I can’t believe you’re talking to me this way. I’ve been there for you since your mom passed.” His hands go to his chest dramatically. He has always been a good friend and has helped me through tough times. However, he sometimes crosses boundaries and expects me to share every aspect of my life with him. The other night, he touched me in a way he shouldn’t have while I felt vulnerable. I regret allowing him to do so.
“You helped me just like Lana has with my mother’s passing, and I appreciate it. However, I don’t owe you my life story. You want more, and I can’t give you that. You will only remain my friend. Therefore, I suggest you move on.”
He runs his hands through his disheveled hair. Andrew’s gaze is on mine, and he frowns. I sigh. The door to my café swings open. It’s eight in the morning, and our rush usually happens at seven. It’s calmed down a little. Max walks toward me, his steps effortless and smooth. His crisp, white button-down shirt hugs his defined biceps, accentuating his strength. The fabric of his tailored slacks clings to the contours of his legs, showcasing the muscles underneath. He moves with confidence and grace, every inch of him exuding power and control.
Oh, great titties, he’s beautiful.The fact that I know what’s underneath it has my body overheating. Andrew tenses, his jaw clenched. Max stands in front of Andrew, sizing him up, then smirks. “Good morning, Rain.” His lips curl up in a closed-mouth smile. His gaze sweeps my entire body, awakening the ache between my legs.
“G-good…good morning.” My voice comes out breathless like I just climbed the highest mountain. The clothes I have on are not as crisp as what he has on. He’s been dressed to the nines every damn time I see him. I wonder where he works. In comparison, I have on skinny jeans and a plain V-neck tee.
Andrew scrutinizes me, then Max.
“You slept with him, didn’t you?” Andrew’s eyebrows form a V, and his nostrils pull up in disgust. His voice came out raised.
Max takes two steps forward and towers over Andrew by a foot. My mouth unhinges, and my face overheats with embarrassment. I have customers watching.
“Watch your tone when you speak to her. She doesn’t owe you a damn explanation, especially in front of an audience,” Max seethes, pumping his fists.
Shit, is he going to knock him out? The way he glares at Andrew with hatred tells me there might be more to it than jealousy. He passes Andrew, dismissing him, completely taming the argument. Max pats my shoulder, shaking me from the realization that he just defended me. Not that I needed it, but it was a bitch move of Andrew to yell it out for the whole café to hear.
“How about red velvet,Tesoro? How was your night? Did you enjoy the treats?”
So itwashim.
Andrew turns to face me, but I refuse to engage. Max is correct, even though it pains me to admit it. I don’t have to justify myself to Andrew. He stalks away, his face twisted in a scowl.
“Thank you for the snacks… How did you know?” I walk behind the counter. A woman stands waiting to be charged for a book. “Oh, I’m sorry. Is there anything else I can get for you?” She hands me her card, and her blue gaze meets Max’s dark green eyes.
“What type of guy are you?” Her tone is annoyingly flirty. She flutters her eyelashes at him.
I look at Max, whose gaze is on me.
“What do you mean?” he answers, his eyes never drifting.
“Are you a boob guy or an ass man? You look like both types of guys. How about I buy you lunch? I have both for you.” She winks. God, she’s beautiful, but what a slut and so random. Who says that type of shit?
Looking at me, he answers her. “I’m a Rainey type of guy. Only her.” Those eyes heat with lust, and it makes my legs wobble. “She has everything I want. Inside and out. Look at her. Beautiful. Stunning. Smart. Kind.” He points at me. “I worship the ground she walks on.”
Holy shit. No. No. No. He’s fucking with me. Don’t get flustered.
To date, I’m flustered. My lady parts are heating like a fireworks show.
The woman goes bright red like a cherry, ready to pop. “I’m sorry. I didn’t know he was your man.”
A loose laugh squeaks out. “Oh, he’s not my?—”
“Alright, Romeo, give it a rest.” Bethany storms out from the back. A pink apron wrapped around her says,Shake ‘n Bake, Baby. I don’t know where she got it from. “And you.” She points to the woman. “This is a café, not Tinder. Get your horny book and get out.” She lifts a nostril, eyeing us all.
The girl storms out, and Max’s lips curve into a smile. God, why does he have to smile all the time?
“Bethany.” I groan, stifling a laugh.
She ignores me and stalks toward Max. “You must be the asshole. The handsome asshole.”
“And you must be the sister?” Max gives my sister a curious glance.
