Page 106 of A Second Chance

“Scar,” he growls, causing me to smile. “I know you’re enjoying torturing me.”

I look up to see him staring at me with his bright blue eyes that seem to sparkle in the light.

He’s beautiful.

“Sit,” he demands, patting the seat beside him.

I tread toward him but do not sit beside him. He moves quickly when he leans forward and grips my hips, pulling me between his legs, almost making me trip on my own feet. I rest my hands on his shoulders to steady myself.

“You’re not going to look at me?”

No, because I hate the way you make me feel and how your hands feel against my body.

“Scar. Stop being stubborn.” There’s amusement in his tone. When I don’t respond because I don’t know how to act around him, he hoists me onto his lap. I try to break free from his arms, but he tightens his hold on my hips to stop me from moving.

“I’m leaving after Christmas.” That makes me look up to him.

“Wh-what?” I stammer with disappointment.

“I have to get back to work. My absence has kept production from moving forward.”

“Okay. Why are you telling me?”

“Because I didn’t want to leave without saying goodbye. But I’ll be back.”

“Really?”

He nods. “I play my scenes and show up to the premiere. I’ll be back in three to four months tops.”

My shoulders slump and I bow my head, not wanting him to see the sadness in my face.

It’s happening again.

He’s leaving.

But at least he’s saying goodbye this time.

Maverick's voice is heavy with exhaustion when he next speaks. "There's something else you should know." I straighten up and focus my attention on him.

"You know that Skylar worked together on the upcoming movie, right?"

I nod.

"As part of the publicity strategy, I have to attend the premiere with Skylar. It was part of the contract we signed at the start of filming," he explains.

Curiosity piqued, I ask, "Was it also in the contract that Skylar had to be your date?"

Maverick lets out a sigh and runs his hands over his tired face. "Unfortunately, yes. After the premiere, I plan to announce our breakup. This way, I will not be in violation of the agreement."

I notice a glint in his eye when he speaks in a low, smooth voice. "I want you to come with me to the premiere."

I'm taken aback by his request and respond in surprise. "What? I can't go." I'm not sure if I should be flattered or concerned by his invitation.

Maverick cocks his head and asks, "Why not?"

I hesitate to explain my reservations, but before I can say anything, he tightens his grip around my waist, causing me to jump in surprise. I feel his warmth against my skin and my heart races.

He flashes a mischievous grin, making my heart skip a beat.

---