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We haven’t even made it into the gym, and I feel like I’ve been worked hard. Lack of sleep and your brother digging into your nonexistent love life will do that, I guess.
* * *
After the gym, Orrin dropped me off at home. It was just after eight, and I decided to mow the lawn before the heat of the day really hits, and I was already a sweaty hot mess anyway. That was hours ago. I’m starving, so I head to the kitchen to heat up one of the meals we made last night when my cell rings.
I try to fight it, but I can’t contain the smile that lifts my lips when I see Palmer’s name on the screen. The last thing I want is my brother riding my ass, bragging that he was right. “Hey,” I answer.
“Hey. Declan just called, and my car’s ready.”
“Great. I’m finished with everything I wanted to get done today, so I’m ready when you are.”
“I’m starving. I was going to heat up the meal you sent home with me, and then I’m headed your way.”
“I’m getting ready to do the same. Why don’t you save yours for tomorrow, and I’ll heat you up one of mine?”
“Brooks, I can’t eat all of your food.”
“You can. Besides, I’m off this weekend and will more than likely be eating out with one or more of my brothers and then having dinner at my parents’ Sunday night. They’re only good for a week, so you’d be saving me.”
I’m not making it up. Sure, I could eat two most days, but I’m not telling her that.
“Okay. Let me lock up the studio and put a note on the door, and I’ll be right over.”
“I’ll have everything ready and waiting.” I place my phone facedown on the counter and rub my hands over my face. I wish I knew what it was about this woman that has me doing things I’ve never done before.
Shaking out of my thoughts, I pull two containers from the refrigerator and pop them both in the microwave. While they’re warming, I gather forks, napkins, and two bottles of water. The microwave dings after three minutes, and I realize that I started them too early. It’s a good ten-minute drive to my place from her shop. I leave them alone for now. When she pulls in, I’ll heat them for another minute to make sure they’re warm before serving.
I stop and think about my current situation, me worrying about heating up lunch for my friend’s little sister, and I laugh.
Out loud.
It’s official. My cock has taken over. It’s either that or I’ve lost my ever-loving mind. This isn’t me. Orrin was right, even though I’d never tell him that. A soft knock on the door pulls me back to the present.
“Come in!” I call out. Moving toward the microwave, I hit the one-minute button and turn to face her.
“Hey.” She smiles and waves, and I have the sudden urge to pull her into my arms and kiss the breath from her lungs.
Instead, I reply in a similar fashion, lifting my hand for a wave. “Hey.” The microwave beeps, and I’m grateful for something to do. Grabbing one container at a time, I set them on the island where I have two places set up for us.
“Dig in.” I nod toward her container, and just like I knew she would, she picks up her fork, removes the lid, and takes a big bite.
“This is so good.” She covers her mouth with her hand. “Don’t tell my dad I said that. It will go to his head.”
“Your secret is safe with me.” I force myself to turn to my own food and not watch her eat. For one, it’s rude as hell, and two? Well, she’s sexy as hell, and I’m not going there. I can’t go there. She’s already taking up too much space inside my head.
“How’s your day been?” she asks in between bites.
“Went to the gym with Orrin this morning, mowed the lawn, and that’s about it. Yours?” I ask politely.
“I had a shoot first thing this morning. Two adorable kids. A walk-in that wanted boudoir images for her anniversary next week. I’m shooting her later today.”
“Boudoir?” I almost choke on the word.
She nods as if my cock isn’t straining against my zipper, thinking about her lying in skimpy lingerie across the bed.
My bed.
“Yeah, I’ve done a lot of them. Wives like to do them for their significant others. Husbands too.”
