Page 270 of Ruthless Court

My heart kicks harder with every step.

He stops close enough for me to see the faint shadow along his jaw.

Still no touch.

“You haven’t asked.”

“I just did.”

“No. You asked whether I was going to.”

I stare at his mouth.

“This is ridiculous.”

“Probably.”

“You know what I meant.”

“I’m done deciding what you mean.”

The line from the stairwell returns.

Letting you decide.

Kane waits.

No teasing.

No rescue.

All I have to do is say two words.

Kiss me.

My lips refuse to cooperate.

Fear gets there first.

Ryan laughing behind the gym.

The online poll.

Krista in the concourse claiming Kane’s seats.

Every athlete who smiled before handing me something he wanted finished.

Kane sees the retreat.

He doesn’t punish it.

His expression softens.

“Good night, Hannah.”

“Good night, Hannah.”

He turns.