“You didn’t mean to say that, did you?” A slow smile creeps across his face.
I stand tall, placing my hands on my hips. “There’s nothing wrong with putting my career first. You know, over suave men trying to seduce me.”
“Of course not. So, can I feel you…” His eyes bug out. “No! I meantseeyou. Can Iseeyou again?”
I burst out laughing at his faux pas. “Not so suave now, are you, Hallmark?”
He tilts his head. “You’re enjoying this, aren’t you?”
“It’s nice to know I’m not the only one in this relationship who says the wrong thing.”
Shock covers his face. “Relationship?”
I tense. “Ahh, shoot! You know what I mean.”
He leans in, his eye contact making it hard to think. He’s all around me, eclipsing my surroundings, as he leans in so close I can smell his woodsy aftershave. Chase’s breath wisps against my lips, reminding me of ouralmost kiss. It makes me want to lean up and see what it would be like to actually taste him.
“I’ll see you soon, Starlight.”
My breath hitches, my stomach somersaulting. I close my eyes, pursing my lips for Chase’s imminent touch, then I feel it—the moment his lips connect.
Damn!
But they don’t touch my lips, he’s kissing my freaking cheek.
My eyes flash open as I melt even atthatsimple touch, while the energy surges over me. His supple lips on my cheek send a wave of euphoria through my soul when he slowly backs away, and I stare into his eyes.
“Holy shit,” I murmur under my breath.
He smirks before he heads off, walking to his car.
My knees wobble, and I reach out, steadying myself on the side of my truck. “Get a damn grip, Lyric,” I mutter, while he turns, slowly waving goodbye, watching me, waiting for me to get in like the gentleman he is.
I slide into the truck, my head falling forward to rest on the steering wheel.
With a deep breath, I mutter, “Holy hell! What in sweet baby Jesus was that?”
Chapter Ten
LYRIC
One Week Later
Chase and I have been texting nonstop this past week, our banter leaving me giddy every time my phone buzzes. I’ve been dying to see him again, but between my hectic week at the shop and his long hours at work, it just hasn’t happened. Still, the texts and the occasional phone call have been enough to keep me grinning like an idiot.
We’ve planned another date, and this time I’m ready to let him pick me up from my place. It might only be a road trip and one real date so far, but there are times you just get that feeling about someone, and with Chase, I do.
He’s taking me somewhere, a surprise destination I can’t even begin to guess.
My cell dings suddenly, which sends my heart into a rapid cycle of heavy beats.
Is Chase canceling?
My phone buzzes, and I snatch it up to see a picture coming through. Without even checking the sender, I swipe it open, and there’s Doughnut, chomping on a carrot while wearing a party hat. The sight makes me burst out laughing. When I realize it’s from Rip, I’m so giddy I fire back a reply instantly.
Me:He looks like he’s celebrating. I hope he’s having a great time. Happy carrot day, Doughnut! lol
The picture makes me giggle, and the ache that follows is instant. That ridiculous fainting goat—I really do miss him. A trip to see him is long past due.