Page 11 of Savage Truce

Loving the story behind the snowflake, I look at his right arm, noticing the tattoos are completely different.

There’s an anatomical heart with a dagger driven straight through it. Thick chains surround the blade and organ, several of the links broken. Roses are worked into the detail, while thorny vines snake through the entire piece.

Before I can ask, Rodian says, “Show the way so we can check the doors.”

“Oh, right!” I walk down the corridor, and when we enter the auditorium, I glance up at him. “I’m curious. Why did you attend the play alone?”

Something mischievous glints in his eyes. “How did you know I was alone?”

Damn. Busted.

I tuck some of my hair behind my ear as I lower my gaze. He’s been pretty straightforward and told me he doesn’t like games, so I give in and admit the truth. “Before the play started, I peeked through the curtains and noticed you in the front row.”

When he lets out a deep chuckle, I experience such a strong pull of attraction it feels like it’s going to overwhelm me.

“Glad to hear you noticed me.”

Feeling rattled, I walk a little faster. “Oh, hush. You know every woman was looking at you.”

Rodian grabs hold of my arm, right above my elbow, then his hand slides down until he reaches my wrist.

My steps slow down, and as I stare at where he’s touching me, his fingers wrap around mine. A kaleidoscope of butterflies takes flight, wreaking havoc in my stomach.

“Is this okay?” He asks.

It’s the first time a man has held my hand, and I’m so overwhelmed by him that I can only nod.

When I begin walking again, Rodian tugs me to a stop and lifts his other hand to my face. He cups my cheek, and it makes my heart beat wildly while my breathing instantly comes faster.

“You can tell me if you’re uncomfortable.”

Staring into his blue eyes, I struggle to string enough words together to form a sentence because all I want to do is swoon and enjoy how good it feels to be touched by him.

“I’m not uncomfortable,” I finally manage, my tone soft.

The pleased smirk he gives me draws my attention to his mouth and the bristles on his jaw.

Will they feel scratchy if we kiss?

My pulse races even faster, and I place my other hand on my stomach while breaking eye contact.

“I would pay good money to know what you’re thinking right now.”

“Oh no.” I shake my head, and when I start walking, a nervous chuckle bursts over my lips. “My thoughts are priceless. You can’t afford them.”

His fingers tighten around mine, and his thumb caresses my skin. “Maybe I can earn one of your thoughts.”

“Hmm… how?”

“By taking you out for dinner.”

I chuckle again. “It’s a little late.”

“Tomorrow night.” He lifts our joined hands to check the time on his wristwatch, then corrects himself. “Tonight. At seven.”

I glance up again, and seeing he’s being serious, there’s another burst of happiness in my heart. Luckily, I always have Mondays off, and I don’t hesitate to answer, “I’d love to have dinner with you. We can meet in front of the theater.”

If anyone had told me I’d meet Rodian after the show and he would take an interest in me, I would’ve laughed in their faces.