Page 34 of Two Sticky Nuts

Logan looks at me with a stone-cold expression. “I hope there is a point to this terrible story.”

“Some people avoid the difficult things in their lives until they can’t handle the stink any longer. Maybe Carter won’t react until it’s unbearable.”

“Perhaps.” He rolls up his other sleeve and then places his napkin on his lap. I like how Logan’s going through the motions of a man unwinding after a long, hard day, getting comfortable and ready for a good meal.

With genuine conversation.I like that he’s doing it with me.

“So,” he asks, “would you say you’re one of those people who lets the ugly things in your life fester before you take action?”

I give it some thought. “Yeah, sadly, I guess I am.” I’m still working for Dick though I know I’m unhappy there. Even with the raise, it doesn’t make a difference. “There are definitely things in my life I should’ve changed a long time ago. But I’m working on it now.”

“Good for you.”

I straighten my back. “Yes. Good for me.”

He stares across the table, a sincere expression in his sharp blue eyes. “Thanks.”

“For what?”

“For waiting.”

We lock eyes. Somehow, I get the feeling he means something other than this dinner we’re about to have. Maybe it’s hopefulness on my part, but I sense he’s thanking me for waiting for him to come into my life.

No. That’s just my silly romantic fantasy leaking through into my thoughts.

“Anytime, Logan,” I reply sincerely. Because I’m feeling a connection with him that wasn’t there with Carter.

“So, you ready to eat?” he asks. “Because Chef Jean is preparing a very special meal for us.”

“Pig in a blanket?” I ask.

“You know about his orchid-covered braised pork?”

I wink. “I know a lot of things.” Why did I say that? I was trying to be flirty, but it came out cheap.

He smiles and nods slowly. “I bet you do.”

I try to smile back and not look nervous.Oh great. Now he thinks I’m kinky.

Oh no!I forgot all about Mr. Sticky Nuts. Shit. Is Logan the porn star? Or is it Carter?

Please be Carter. Please? Because so far, Logan is…he’s just so perfect. I want it to stay that way.

But what if itisLogan? Would I really care?

Actually, I fucking would. I don’t think I’d want to share him with anyone. Not even via the internet.

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN

The dinner was better than anything I could’ve imagined. The conversation, the food, the wine. Perfect.

But most of all, I loved the company. Being able to look across the table at a man who is stunningly handsome, plus witty and smart, was like being in a dream. He even used his silverware correctly, something I’m kind of into.

At the end of the meal, he walks me out and waits until my car is brought around. He hands me a card for a guy he knows who owns an autobody shop. “He’ll make sure you have a loaner while yours is being repaired, and he’ll give you an excellent deal.”

“Thanks. Oh, and I almost forgot this.” I dig through my purse and hand him a check for five thousand dollars.

He takes it, folds it up, and shoves it in his pocket. I get the feeling he’s going to tear it up later. “I have a lot going on next week, but I’d like to see you again, Mila.”

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