Page 36 of Fated to the Grumpy Dragon
The shop owner blinked. “Of course.”
“I need to get some other supplies for our trip,” Rhyse said. “Get what you need, but nothing more. We’re traveling light. Got it?”
“Not really. I mean, I understand that, but I still don’t understand why,” I said.
“You’ll see,” he said, then he was gone.
I stared after him. Was it my imagination, or had he just winked at me?
“So, what can I help you with?” Janos asked, a big grin on his face.
“Bathing suits, apparently,” I said with a shrug. “That’s what I was told.”
The shopkeeper looked me up and down.
“Don’t say it,” I said. “I know I look terrible.”
“Maybe some clothes, too. Rhyse can afford it. Come, let’s get you looking good!” He clapped his hands and gestured for me to follow.
I allowed Janos to help me select two outfits. In the end, I also ended up with a pair of swimsuits in completely opposite styles.
I stared at the one, a purple and black option that would … suit me well. Would Rhyse like it? Would he think I—
What do you care what he thinks? He’s made it clear he doesn’t like you.
So, why did he get so turned on when I mentioned he wanted to see me in a bikini?
Confusion reigned.
But I didn’t put the bikini back on the rack.
Chapter Sixteen
Emma
“We’re going boating?” I stared at the cabin cruiser Rhyse had led me to after picking me up from the store. The purchases were all still in the bag I held, along with a broad straw-brimmed hat that now adorned my head.
The sun was warm, and I was pale. Protection seemed necessary. Besides, I looked cute in it, and after two days of wearing his outfits, it was necessary.
“Yes.”
“So much for suntanning and margaritas on the beach while you cool me with palm leaves and feed me grapes.”
“What?” Rhyse gaped at me.
“Nothing,” I shook my head. “You’re brave, though, bringing me back here and letting me walk on my own two feet. The last time I was on the docks, it didn’t go so well.”
He snorted. “This time, you aren’t trying to run away from me. Are you?”
I looked down at the fresh new thong sandals, airy black athletic shorts, and white tank top I wore, all courtesy of his account at Janos’ shop. “No, I guess not. I owe you this one.”
“Good. Then get on board. Oh, and Emma?”
“Yes?”
“Climbdown onto the boat, please. Don’t fall onto it. I put the harpoons away, but … it’s still not a soft surface.”
I gave him the finger. He laughed as I carefully got aboard the mini-yacht. It had to be thirty-five or forty feet long, all told. There was a below-deck area, but it had a low ceiling and was not overly spacious. Certainly not like any of the pleasure yachts I’d seen on social media over the years.
