Page 6 of Perfect Strangers

I unwrap the scarf around my neck as I laugh at that stupid nickname. “I’m not always grumpy ya know. It’s just tonight was kind of a little piss for me, that’s all.”

“Well, then we need to do something to rectify that, don’t we?”

I inch closer to him. “And what do you have in mind?”

Just as he’s about to answer, the bartender returns with a wallet. “Is this the one?”

I glance at it and practically cry out with joy. “Yes!! Oh my god, thank you! Where was it?”

The two men laugh at my jubilation and the bartender says, “It was by the pool tables. Someone brought it up here. I’m assuming it was after you stormed out after your little riff with that guy.”

I open my wallet, inspecting for any stolen cash or cards. Luckily my cards are still there but the cash is gone. At least I don’t have to replace anything.

A deep voice echoes besides me. “Guy, what guy?”

A hint of jealousy sounds from my stranger’s voice and I peek up at him, only to find him staring at me intensely. His dark eyes border on the edge of envy and possession. His hand lands on mine, grabbing hold.

“Uh, actually it’s nobody now. I was here for a party and was set up to meet someone. And well, he ended up leaving me. Let’s just say, we didn’t match.”

The memories of the prior hours before flash before my eyes, forcing me to shy away from my stranger, retreating from his firm grip. Sadness fills my heart as I fight away the tears and push down the void in my chest.

Stupid girl.

Always chasing after the wrong guy. The guy that lies, steals, and cheats. And then, leaves you stranded in the city with nowhere to go.

“Whatever the reason for him leaving you, he’s a damn idiot, for not realizing what he lost.”

My cheeks heat with blush as I swipe my blonde hair away from my face, tucking it behind my ear. “I know you’re being nice, so thank you.”

His fingers grab hold of my chin and twists my face toward his. His eyes darken with a heated passion as he whispers deep. “No, I’m serious. Obviously, he doesn’t see you the way that I do.”

My breath catches at his honesty and I can’t help but ask, “And…what do you see?”

His lips curves. “What do I see? I see pure, natural beauty. A beauty so rare, it needs to be cherished; kept safe.”

I freeze at his sudden exposure of emotion and watch as his eyes drift

south toward my lips. The feel of his fingers along my chin sends shooting electricity throughout my body as I sit there completely still.

I watch as he moves, inching closer toward me and I close my eyes, desperately waiting to feel his lips touch mine. And at that moment, I feel his lips touch my cheek instead, steadily holding their place for a couple seconds, before he lifts his head away from me.

I open my eyes to find him smiling at me in a teasingly way. Just before I can say anything the bartender interrupts me.

“Hey guys, it’s last call. We’re closing up shop soon.”

Shocked at his announcement, I glance around for a clock. “What time is it?”

“It’s almost two. So, if you’re not getting a last drink, then I’m sorry but you guys gotta clear out of here.”

I nod and thank him as I stand up, grabbing my coat. Before I slip it on, I glance over at the handsome stranger. “I need to use the bathroom first. I’ll be right back.”

He gestures. “I’ll be right here, waiting for you. Don’t be too long.”

I smile. “I won’t.”

I grab my things and head toward the restroom. Entering the space, I glance around to find it completely empty and let out a loud squeal.

Holy shit, he’s hot! Oh my god!

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