Page 45 of The Daredevil

Stop enticing me with that look.

His green eyes were like crystal balls, trying to lure me into seeing something that was probably not good for me.

Though the offer appealed to me, I didn’t want to complicate matters even more between us. This fake dating didn’t seem so fake. How could something fake make mefeelso much? That kiss was everything. His touch brought my body to life. I could still sense the electrical charge running through my body.

Complications mean trouble. Trouble weakens my closet door, allowing the monster to come out.

Royce probably saw my concern and said, “What happens in Iceland stays in Iceland.”

He saw through me, or his thoughts had just coincided with mine. I had thought the same thing not too long ago.

“So you don’t have to worry. Have fun with me while we’re playing pretend.” He cupped my ass, pushing my sex closer to his cock.

When I drew away, I saw Fiona from the corner of my eye. Or rather, I sensed darts flying at me.

“Is Fiona your ex-girlfriend?”

“Yes. For one week.”

He dated her for only one week?

I couldn’t help myself. “Why so short?”

He shrugged. “I was young and clueless. Hormones clogged my brain back then. When I came to my senses, I ended things. It was hard trying to keep her at a distance.”

“She acts like she still owns you.”

That idea bothered me more than I expected. My grip on his arm tightened, and my fingers dug into his muscles. I didn’t even realize until he patted my hand, peeled off my fingers, and took my hand in his. That simple gesture soothed my irritation.

My new apprehension and anger towards her was just me being protective of my friend, right?

My dismay didn’t have a chance against the power he had over my body. The heat between Royce and me could incinerate this hot spring.

“Let me give you a little background. I’d been studying for my master’s and had just taken over a business. I was exhausted when I met her at the bar, and her invitation was what I needed. But she got clingy and wanted to date officially. I wasn’t into that. I just wanted a hookup.”

Would he dismiss me if I wanted more than this fake relationship?

Frustration flared in me. Fiona got to be with him first.

I shoved the ridiculous jealousy out of my mind. Why should I be jealous if my relationship with him was fake? I was doing him a favor. I shouldn’t be jealous. Still, irritation nipped at me like porcupine quills.

“I’m going to explore the waters so I can write about it.” I yanked my hand away from his and walked over to a new section of the pool with a wooden bridge surrounded by rocks and moss.

Royce followed behind me, saying nothing. Confusion overwhelmed me as I ran my fingers over the soft moss covering the huge rocks. Tears threatened and perplexed me even more. Why was I so emotional about this?

I was a mess for no reason. Ignoring him, I pretended to analyze the moss, rocks, and water. If I looked at him, I might cry. Then he’d ask why, and I didn’t have an obvious answer, which would make me feel stupid.

Royce stood beside me, examining the rocks. My body was aware of his presence like a sunflower was aware of the sun. My body resonated with his body heat, his scent, his ability to make me weak and wobbly.

A burst of laughter from Fiona drew our attention to her corner. She was splashing water at two guys who had joined her group. Smiling, she waved at Royce.

He waved back and returned his focus to me.

“I want to do something again.” He touched my chin lightly, his eyes darkening.

Something about his voice sent nerves rioting in my stomach. “Do what?”

“Something a boyfriend has a right to do with his girlfriend.” He kissed me, his soft lips brushing ever so slightly over mine, teasing me. “Do you oppose this kissing practice?”

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