Page 44 of Perfect Alpha

“I’m well prepared to win, thanks to you.”

Vince is the owner of the dojo, and I have to admit that sparring with him is pretty fun. Plus, kickboxing has gotten me into the best shape of my life.

He takes the costume and puts his arm around my shoulders, leading me into the inviting restaurant I’ve never heard of.

New York City has so many hidden gems, and I love discovering all the new ones when I actually remember to leave the house. I forgot to eat lunch again, so I’m starving as usual.

Vince pulls a chair out for me and rakes his gaze up and down my body. I’m wearing black skinny jeans, gold Michael Kors flats, and a silky white blouse that gives just a hint of cleavage.

But this man has seen me covered in sweat while wearing booty shorts and a sports bra, so I’m not sure there’s any mystery left to salvage.

“You look amazing,” Vince tells me huskily. “You’re so beautiful, Victory.”

Before sitting down, I impulsively hug him now that my hands are free. I bury my face in his neck, trying desperately to stir my desire.

Instead of finding Cade’s unique blend of the mountains and home, Vince’s skin is coated with Giorgio Armani cologne. It disappoints me so much I want to cry, but that would just be stupid.

“Mmm, that was unexpected and certainly welcome,” Vince mutters against my hair. “Do you have any idea how long I’ve wanted to wrap my arms around you?”

Taking a deep breath, I give Vince a quick kiss on the cheek before sitting down. “You have your hands all over me three times a week.”

“Yeah, but you’re trying to kick my ass,” he complains, with a playful grin that I have to admit is very sexy. Any reasonable woman would love to trade places with me right now.

So, why am I indifferent?

“A little tenderness goes a long way.” Vince’s voice is as warm and smooth as honey, and I remind myself how hot he is.

I want you tender tonight, angel.

That’s what Cade said to me before we had sex for the last time. Of course, I didn’t know it was going to be the last time when we were doing it. What would I have done differently? Does it matter?

Yes. No. Yes.

Shit.

“I’ll keep that in mind, but I really like winning,” I quip, trying to keep my tone light and friendly while forcibly pushing Cade from my mind.

“You’re getting really good,” Vince tells me earnestly. “You’ve come such a long way since you first walked into the dojo.”

Flushing with pleasure, I smile at him. It was my mission to find a hobby that forced me out of the house when I moved to the city. I’m more than happy to lose myself to the world of books for hours on end, which doesn’t exactly help me stay in shape.

“Thank you. You’re not so bad yourself.”

Vince interlaces his fingers with mine, leaving me to review the menu with only one hand. It’s awkward but sweet, so I don’t pull my hand away.

Couple gestures become easier with more practice and, eventually, you find your way. But first, we need to have one successful outing.

This is the perfect first date restaurant that’s closer to my place than his. It’s lit by soft twinkle lights and glittering candles that cast everyone in a flattering glow.

The seating is tight, but the darkness gives the illusion of intimacy. There’s a tin ceiling and each table has fresh daisies, charming red and white checkered tablecloths, and ornate metal chairs that are more comfortable than they look.

Vince tells me about his two brothers, sister, and still-married parents who live in Laguna Beach. He moved to New York City for college and fell in love, so he stayed to open a dojo.

He’s replaced surfing with underground fighting, he can cook, he loves to read historical non-fiction, and he takes at least three trips a year. He makes it clear he’s looking for a girlfriend and eventually a wife, kids, and a dog.

I tell him all about my job, and he asks smart, provocative questions while never taking his eyes off my face. He also asks about my family in Montana and I mention everyone except Cade, even though he’s monopolizing all my brainpower.

Then the hard question.

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