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That truck was absolutely compensating for something, if you catch my drift.
Mack climbed out of his truck and studied the Campbell House’s facade, completely unaware of our attention. Burke sized him up, his features harsh and unforgiving.
A pleasant shiver slid its way down my spine.
Mack was, objectively, a good-looking guy.
He’d been friendly enough when we talked. I’d seen no obvious creepy red flags. And every once in a while, a girl just wanted to check if she remembered how to flirt or date or kiss or whatever after a long time of ... not.
All in all, Mack had been an excellent reminder that even if I did remember those things, not all interested guys were worthy recipients of my skills.
Burke glanced at the dining-room table and saw the crowbar I kept leaning against the wall—my flimsy attempt at a home security system.
Without a single look in my direction, eyes locked on that crowbar, he asked, “Did he lay a hand on you?”
Again, I tried to swallow. “Maybe ... one. Just a little hand, though.”
Burke’s eyebrow arched.
“Not little. But he just, like, tugged on my elbow a bit.” I swallowed. “When I tried to leave.”
That had been enough for me in the moment. Apparently, it was enough for Burke too.
Burke nodded, like he’d come to a decision.
Slowly, he bent over and picked up the crowbar, testing its weight in his hand.
“Burke,” I said. “What are you doing?”
“Taking the trash out,” he answered easily.
“You can’t assault him.” I tried to tug on his arm, but it was like trying to move a metal post.
His eyes were on fire. “Why not? He assaultedyou.”
My mouth hung open. The sheer righteous rage pouring off his body was potent. And surprising. “What if he calls the cops?”
“I would love to see him try.”
Burke looked down at my hand curled around his arm. The skin underneath my palm was so warm, so firm. And for a second, we both just ... stared at that single place where we touched.
Then he leaned in, eyes locking on mine. “He leaves now.”
Finally, I let my hand slide off his forearm and nodded. Burke took that as confirmation. Or permission. I wasn’t sure, but in the next breath, he was striding past me and pulling the carriage house door open with a mighty heave.
Mack turned at the sound, smiling that smarmy smile. “Hey. You must be ...” His voice trailed off when he caught sight of me behind Burke, the grin falling off his face. “Charlotte?”
He didn’t know I worked here, because I’d failed to mention it when I realized he was a giant, icky man-child whom I wanted nothing to do with. And as my big, grumpy roommate made a beeline toward him with a crowbar in his hand and a murderous expression on his face, I gave Mack a sunny smile and a tiny finger wave that had his face contorted in confusion.
When Burke approached the truck with the crowbar up and ready to swing, Mack’s face dropped in shock. “What the hell are you doing?”
Burke pointed the crowbar at him. “Get the fuck off my property.”
“Youinvitedme here.”
“I did. Before I knew you were a dick who puts his hands on women.” He pulled the crowbar back and aimed for the rear windshield. “Shall I start here, or you gonna leave, asshole?”
Mack started around the front of the truck, and my back went rigid with fear that these two brutes were actually going to fight. Over me.
