I look up, and my heart stops dead in my chest.
The hottest man I’ve ever seen just walked into The Summit.
He’s tall, with broad shoulders and the kind of muscular build that comes from actual physical labor, not just hours at the gym. His dark hair is styled in that perfect messy way that probably costs more than my monthly rent. He’s wearing black jeans that fit him like they were custom-made, paired with a charcoal button-down rolled up at the sleeves to reveal strong forearms. A silver chain hangs around his neck, disappearing beneath his partially unbuttoned shirt.
My mouth goes dry.
I know exactly who he is. He’s Axel Ruins, lead singer of Highland Rye, the local band that’s been making waves nationally. I’ve heard their music at the diner and seen their posters around town, but I’ve never seen him in person.
Pictures don’t do him justice. At all.
He stands just inside the entrance, scanning the room with a slight frown creasing his forehead. His eyes are intense, focused, like he’s hunting for something.
Or someone.
Those eyes suddenly lock on mine, and the air between us practically crackles. My heart jumps into my throat. There’s a flash of... something... in his expression. Something I can’t quite name.
He starts walking directly toward me, his gaze never wavering. Each step is purposeful, and the crowd seems to part for him without him even trying.
I realize I’m clutching the edge of the bar so tightly my knuckles have turned white. I force myself to breathe and pick up a glass, pretending to wipe it down.
Act normal, Sami. He’s just another customer.
A ridiculously hot, famous customer who’s looking at me like I’m the only person in the room.
He reaches the bar and plants both hands on the polished surface, leaning forward slightly. Up close, he’s even more devastating. His eyes are the most unusual shade of blue-gray, like storm clouds.
My spine straightens automatically.
“Hi there,” I say in my professional voice, already reaching for a cocktail napkin out of habit. “What can I get for you tonight?”
He doesn’t answer my question. Instead, he studies my face like he’s memorizing every detail. The intensity of his stare makes my skin feel hot.
“I don’t want a drink.” His voice is deep and rough, with just a hint of a mountain accent. “I want to talk to you.”
And here we go.
“Sir, I don’t date customers.” I gesture vaguely around us. “Especially ones I meet in places like this. There are security cameras everywhere, and Clay, our head of security, takes his job very seriously. So, whatever you’re thinking, I can guarantee you’re wasting your time.”
He gives me an amused smirk.
“Am I?”
“Yes, you are.” I cross my arms over my chest, which I immediately regret when his eyes flicker down briefly. “Look, I get it. Men see a woman working in a place like this and theymake assumptions. They think the fact that I serve drinks in a low-cut top means I’m fair game. But I’m not.”
“I know you’re not.” His voice comes out as a low growl that sends an unwelcome shiver racing down my spine. “You’re mine.”
My mouth actually drops open.The audacity of this man. I’ve had guys try cheesy pickup lines. I’ve had men slip me their room keys with their credit cards. But I’ve never had someone walk in and just... claim me like I’m territory.
“Excuse me?” I manage to sputter. “I don’t even know you.”
“Axel Ruins.” He holds out a large, calloused hand. “Now you know me.”
I stare at his hand but don’t take it.
“I know your name. That doesn’t give you the right to walk in here and tell me what I am or am not.”
“You shouldn’t be working here.” He glances around the bar and frowns. “It’s not safe.”
