Page 40

The warmth in her voice is gone.

Good.

That’s exactly what I want.

Liar.

“And reopening the B&B is still a terrible idea.”

There.

That’s much safer territory. Her eyes narrow.

“Oh, really?”

“Yes.”

“Well, I don’t recall asking for your opinion.”

“And I don’t recall asking you to jump half naked into my arms this morning.”

Her mouth falls open.

“Excuse me for being scared when a bunch of slithering snakes come out of my drain!”

“This town isn’t for the faint of heart, Belinda.”

“I’m beginning to realize that.”

“It’s dangerous.”

“So?”

“So maybe it’s not the place for a woman like you.”

She goes perfectly still. And I realize that’s the wrong thing to say.

Again.

“A woman like me?”

“That’s not⁠—”

“No, please.”

She plants both hands on her hips.

My boxers stretch over those hips. My shirt shifts higher on her thighs.

Jesus Christ.

“Tell me, Mr. Leeds. What exactly is a woman like me?”

“Inexperienced.”

“With Arrhythmia.”

“With danger.”