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“We’re playing a speed round of charades to get things started tonight. I hope you don’t mind showing everyone how it’s done, Connor.” She shoots me a sideways glance. Her green eyes twinkle bright and cheery. Nerves or not, she’s having fun. Surprisingly, I am, too.
It's been a while since I spared time to pursue personal interests. I work long days and volunteer in my spare time, mentoring a young boy who needs a male role model. Giving back to the community is a high priority for me. My family benefited from the generosity of strangers for most of my formative years. I promised I’d return the favor one day.
Ginger extends her hand with a stack of cards resting in her palm. I pull one from the top and drag my fingers across her fingertips. The simple touch is fleeting, but it strikes a nerve that zips up my arm, causing every hair to stand on end. The shock surprises me, and I dismiss it for what it is, static electricity or magnetic energy.
I read the answer from the card and get to work, acting out clues for the crowd. This must be the easy deck because it doesn't take long for someone to guess Santa Claus when I mime a round belly and beard, then throw an imaginary sack over my shoulder.
"Great job." Ginger places a congratulatory hand on my shoulder, and I'm caught in her spell for a single enchanted second. She hesitates long enough to make eye contact, then yanks her hand away like she's touched fire.
But I’m the one who’s been burned and branded.
IT’S ALL AN ACT
CHAPTER 2
***
Ginger
My fingers tingle and the energy racing through my body throws me off guard. I collect my wits while the crowd pairs off according to their numbered tickets.
“Looks like we’re the only two without a match.” Connor flicks his door ticket. “Unless you’re only here in an official capacity.”
“Well, I am working, but I could make an exception if you don’t mind playing for fun and not a prize.” I turn on the charm and grin. I thought my nerves would settle with everyone immersed in the game, but my body titters under Connor’s watchful eye.
“Who needs a prize? I’d rather enjoy the pleasure of your company.” A boyish grin slides across his tempting lips.
A ripple of want flirts through me, ruffling the lonely knot in my belly before descending lower, below the spandex that keeps my curves in check. I haven’t felt a thrill so delicious in...too long.
"Game on, then." I pluck a card from the deck. Playing charades on a stage in front of strangers takes more mental preparation than I've armed myself with tonight. My students have more nerve than I do. I hedge my bets he won't push back when I pass on acting out clues. "You're good at this. I'll guess."
“Hardly fair. You’ve already seen me in action.” He cocks an eyebrow but accepts the challenge. “But I’m up for it.”
He squares his shoulders and puffs out his chest. The man’s a solid wall of muscle. His arms bulge when he flexes, and I dare not peek at any other bulging areas he sports.
“Bodybuilder?” I guess. He rolls his eyes and flexes again. “Egomaniac?”
