Her blood ran hotter and her stomach flipped.
The arrogant guy from earlier stood at the counter, only a few steps away. The one who hadn’t bothered to thank her for helping his father, but shoved money at her instead.
There was no denying he looked damn good in a suit, that hint of a smirk hinting at secrets he’d never share. However, she’d resist him. No problem.
He stood there, his arms folded across his chest, those intense eyes never leaving her.
Ready to take his order, Jess cleared her throat, but his gaze held Shannon’s and the corners of his mouth twitched to a full smile.
“So, you do need money, after all?” he said.
Her mouth snapped shut, stung by his words.
“I don’t appreciate having money shoved in my facelike that. It was insulting. A simple thank you would’ve been enough,” she snapped, her voice colder than she intended.
She took a step back, trying to steady herself, but her knees were like jelly.
“I was strung out because my dad vanished,” he said, his voice deep and gritty. “Doesn’t excuse how I acted. You're right, I should’ve thanked you properly. That was on me. I’ll make it right.”
His admission hung in the air between them, while his lips, so soft and full, stayed in a cocky grin, the dimple on his right cheek deepening in a way that should’ve been illegal.
A tsunami of heat crashed through her, right to her core. She fought to keep her cool, to keep her distance, but damn, the pull was strong.
“Fine.” She shrugged, playing it down.
He adjusted the knot in his tie, his eyes never leaving hers. “You have amazing blue eyes.”
Regain control.
Don’t let him get the better of you, Shannon.
Her mind screamed at her to put the tray down, to walk away.
Where to?
This place is too damn small to breathe properly.
His woodsy aftershave clung to the air, teasing her senses, and she couldn’t help but notice the smoothness of his bronzed skin.
Fuck, focus.
Just breathe.
Deep breaths.
In and out.
“Oh, that’s original.” She hitched an eyebrow, doing her best to look unimpressed. “You have a great…ear.”
The corner of his mouth quirked, and that damn dimple made another appearance.
Sweet Jesus.
He chuckled, deep and dirty. “Well, at least there’s one thing you like about me.”
Shannon inhaled, her eyes flashing with a mix of irritation and amusement.
“I wouldn’t saylike. As far as ears go, they’re pretty standard.” She bit her lip, holding back the smirk that threatened to break through.
