“Touch away,” I instigate, helping her out of her seat.
“Really?” She scrunches that button nose of hers. Even that is adorable.
“I don’t say things I don’t mean.”
“Okay.” She pokes my chest. “Yep, harder than I thought.” A bark of laughter leaves me. “What? I was curious, I mean—” Mable motions up and down my body. I put my hand on the small of her back to lead her to the gate. “How many abs do you have?”
“Haven’t counted lately.”
She snorts a laugh. “What seat are you?”
I show her.
“Oh, first class. It was all sold out.”
“Shall I trade with another? I’m sure I can give the person next to you my ticket, and I can have theirs.”
“No, don’t do that.” She glances around. It takes me a moment to realize she doesn’t want the attention that would bring. It’s a good thing I had Tomas handle it, and he just did that.
“Mable Kittrick,” the woman scanning tickets asks.
“That’s me!” she chirps.
“Hold on, there is an issue.” She clicks away at the pad in her hand.
“Did I do something wrong?” She whispers the question, but it’s still fairly loud. I step more behind her, to shield her, because people are watching, and I don’t want her to know.
“No, only a change.” She gives Mable a warm smile.
“Change?”
“Yes, to your seat. You’re now B2.”
“Right next to me.” I scan my ticket.
“Wait, why would?—”
“Thank you,” I tell the woman and keep guiding Mable onto the plane.
I’ve got her just where I want her… for now.
Chapter Three
MABLE
Caldwell keeps his eyes on me while everyone that passes by us has theirs on him. I see a few people whisper. It’s rude to openly stare, but I don’t blame them. If I weren’t so shy, I’d do the same—well, again. I could stare at that man for way longer than I’m openly willing to admit. Instead of giving in to the urge to do just that, I keep my eyes trained forward.
“Here.” He sets a glass of champagne in front of me.
“Thanks.” I pick it up, taking a small sip. I’m pretty sure I’m tipsy already.
“Have to clink it.” I peek over at him to see his glass lifted. I clink mine with his, our eyes locked. A promise lingers in his eyes. The bubbles tickle my nose. It’s crisp and a touch dry.
“You know people stare at you.” Why did I say that? I should lay off the champs, but I find myself taking another sip, starting to relax more in my seat. It’s the first time I’ve ever allowed myself to be this relaxed, and I have to admit it’s kinda nice.
“Are you sure it’s not you?” He gives me a half smile, that charming dimple of his on full display.
“Me?” I snort a laugh.
