Page 7 of Stalked By the Accountant

"Perfect," I reply, my voice coming out slightly breathless.

Jack grins. "Great. I can't wait."

After he leaves, my heart races. I smooth down my hair and take a few deep breaths to collect myself.

What is happening to me? I've never felt this strongly about someone so quickly. There's just something magnetic about Jack that draws me in, like a moth to a flame. I know I should protect my heart and take things slow. But when I'm around Jack, caution melts away, replaced only by desire and possibility.

And I don't know if that's a good thing or a bad thing.

CHAPTERSIX

Becca

The scentof garlic and roses envelops me as Jack holds the door to the restaurant open. Candles flicker on each table, casting a warm glow over the intimate space.

"After you," Jack says with a heart-stoppingly handsome grin.

I smile back, brushing against his arm as I pass. A tingle races up my spine.

Once seated across from each other, we fall into easy conversation. Jack makes me laugh with an outrageous story about our coworkers' antics. His eyes sparkle in the candlelight when he meets my gaze.

"You have such an infectious laugh," he says. "It's one of the things I love about you."

Jack's eyes follow my every move as I take a sip of wine. I feel his gaze on me like a physical touch, subtly tracking my gestures and facial expressions.

When I glance up, his eyes flicker away, focusing intently on the bread basket. But a moment later, his attention is back on me.

I shift in my seat, suddenly self-conscious. Jack's unwavering focus is so intense.

Heat rushes to my cheeks. I tuck a strand of hair behind my ear and glance down shyly. Compliments still catch me off guard, even from Jack. Old habits die hard.

"What else do you...love about me?" I ask quietly, testing the waters.

Jack leans forward, his expression earnest. "I love how passionate you are about your work. How you light up when you talk about your dreams."

My heart flutters hearing him speak this way. I thought I had walls up, but Jack is slowly dismantling them brick by brick. Still, a part of me hesitates, afraid of being hurt again.

"Just promise me one thing?" I say.

Jack takes my hand from across the table. His touch is warm, comforting. "Anything."

I take a deep breath. "Promise you'll never break my trust."

Jack squeezes my hand gently. "I promise."

Jack's thumb gently caresses my hand as he holds it. His touch makes my skin tingle, but his promise means even more to me.

"Thank you," I say softly. "My last relationship really shook my ability to trust. But I'm trying to keep my heart open."

Jack's jaw flexes as he asks, "Was it serious?"

I shrug. "Not really. I've never really let anyone get too close to me. I just never really felt that connection with someone before. You know what I mean?"

Jack nods, his expression serious as he relaxes marginally. "I understand. And I'm honored you're willing to give me that chance."

He pauses, glancing down as if carefully considering his next words. When he meets my eyes again, I'm struck by the vulnerability there.

"I've never been close to anyone—not the way I'd like to be close to you. Becca," he stops and swallows, "you're amazing."

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