Eyes that are crinkling with amusement at my apparent awkwardness.
“I just don’t see you as a mobster.”
Issac huffs, lifting his shirt sleeve to show me his biceps. “You think these babies couldn’t help me out, huh?”
“Mobsters use guns, Issac!”
“Real men don’t,” he argues, refilling my wine.
“True.”
We fall into an easy silence, and I suppress a yawn.
My stomach lurches when I remember that I’m getting hitched on my lunch hour.
Like he’s reading my mind, Issac reaches for my hand, squeezing it gently. “Are you nervous?”
I nod, staring into my wine like it holds the answers. “Strangely, it’s almost becoming acceptable to think I’m getting married tomorrow, despite being single.”
Issac drops his gaze, and I squeeze his hand back, watching as he lifts my hand to his lips. “Are you sure this is what you want, Danielle? Marrying Blake for the business?”
I take in the sight of him, his full lips parting like he’s going to say something else, his eyes dropping to my mouth. His fingers play with mine, and I know there’s something a little more than friendship between us. “Yes, I think so. It’s not forever.”
“You deserve more, though, Danielle.” Issac sighs, pushing his wine glass to the side. “But I have to respect your decision.” He makes a move to leave, and I panic.
“Don’t leave,” I whisper, the thought of being alone terrifying me for some unknown reason.
Issac studies me, his brows knitting in confusion. “But you said?—”
“I know what I said, and I guess I’m confused. I don’t know what to do, you know?”
Issac leans back into the sofa, bringing his leg up so it’s behind my back, beckoning for me to crawl onto his lap. “Come here.”
I do, resting my head against his chest as the rhythmic beat of his heart soothes me. “Some bachelorette party this is,” I mumble.
“This is your last night of freedom, Danielle. What do you want to do with it?” Issac murmurs into my hair.
“I quite like this,” I confess, closing my eyes.
“Then we’ll do this.”
His acceptance makes my heart melt, and I tilt my head back to gaze at him. “Thank you.”
“If I kiss you again, will it ruin all the effort I’ve put into this evening?” Issac asks, his hand cupping my face.
I know it’s not explosive. It’s not what I had with Blake, but look what happened there.
Is it so wrong to try?
“Go for it; I just can’t promise it will be worth it.” I close my eyes, feeling his breath against my mouth as he contemplates his next move.
“You’re worth it, even if it doesn’t work out. You’re beautiful, Danielle.”
“Don’t hate me.”
His lips answer me, and this time it’smethat’s more urgent.
When he slips his hands under my shirt, unclasping my bra, I don’t stop him.
