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As soon as I step inside the bright and spacious kitchen, a petite brunette flashes a warm smile in my direction.
“Mason,” she moves around the long stretch of island before enveloping me in a hug, “it’s so good to see you again. It’s been way too long.”
“You, too.” As she wraps slender arms around me, my muscles tighten at the contact before I mentally force them to loosen.
When was the last time someone hugged me?
I can’t even remember.
Actually, that’s a lie. It was at my parents’ funeral. That’s what being embraced reminds me of—Mom and Dad’s death. I’ve never been hugged so many times in my life as that day.
It’s a bitter memory that stirs a painful ache in my chest.
The moment she releases me, I take a hasty step in retreat.
“Thanks for coming over. I’m glad we were able to find the time to get together.” She gives me another smile. “Making plans during the season is always tricky.”
“Thank you for the invite. I’m happy to be here.” Well…I would be if a certain someone else wasn’t present, driving me to distraction.
Coach claps me on the back. “I hope you brought your appetite along. Anne is an amazing cook.”
A light blush hits her cheeks as she waves a hand before returning to the stove to check on dinner.
“Sure did.” I clear my throat. “I don’t get many homecooked meals, so I’m looking forward to it.”
Anne glances over her shoulder with another easy smile. There’s something calming about her presence. She has that innate power to make the people around her feel instantly welcome and comfortable.
“Spoken like a true bachelor. Feel free to join us anytime. I’m sure Derek would love the opportunity to talk more football.” Her eyes sparkle with humor.
“What?” Coach says, hand landing on his chest. “Me? No way. I never bring work home at the end of the day.”
When the two of them chuckle, I force myself to do the same.
Yeah…there’s no way in hell I plan on making this a regular event. Not if Poppy will be here. I don’t like the way she makes me feel.
Nervous.
Edgy.
On constant alert...all the while being mildly turned-on.
I’ve only been in their house for a couple of minutes and already I’m having a difficult time keeping my eyes off her.
What is it about a pretty girl in a sundress with bare feet?
My cock stirs with interest.
Fuck.
I really need to do something to dampen the arousal rampaging through my body.
Our gazes collide and electricity sizzles through my veins as I force mine away and do my best to ignore her. My hand shakes as I bring the bottle to my lips and take a long swig, praying it’ll douse the growing flames.
It doesn’t.
Honestly, I’m not sure if anything can extinguish them.
This is exactly why I’ve been avoiding her.
