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She smiled, but it wasn’t quite as bright as he’d like—could he put in a request for full reciprocation of the ridiculous infatuation thrumming through his veins? Maybe even a love declaration punctuated with a poem outlining highlights of his sexual prowess?
Fine, that was too much to ask, probably. It had been a long weekend, plus she had to stay alert and focused on the drive since he was zero help in that arena.
But speaking of sexual prowess...
“Also, I’m all for whatever slutty outfit you had in mind for the next time we see Angela. You can put it on tonight if it would make you feel better.” He eyed her gravely. “For your sake, of course. I’m thinking of your mental health here, Claire.”
She snorted. “I’m sure you are.”
“Wouldn’t it be fun to get dressed up sometime?”
“Got a problem with scrubs and yoga pants?”
Hell no. The woman was so pretty in blue it hurt. “Why does it always have to be about you? Maybe I’m trying to show off my ass in a pair of tailored slacks.”
“Now we’re talking.” She cocked a brow. “Tux?”
He laughed. “You think I own a tux?”
“I don’t know but I have a thing for bow ties.”
“The mystery of your date with Merlin is finally explained.”
She laughed and he felt it down to his toes. “What does that mean?”
“He’s a bow tie guy for sure.”
“See, you’re trying to take a cheap shot at poor Marvin but all you’re doing is making me want to see him in a bow tie.”
“Fine, I’ll wear the fucking bow tie.”
“Good.” She winked. “You’re so easy.”
He made sure her eyes were on him before he rolled his eyes. Also, he just liked the way she looked at him.
After a beat of silence, she asked, “So...how about you wearjusta bow tie?”
“Thirsty?”
She did a little shrug as if to sayof courseand it made him smile.
“I can offer you a bow tie plus a cast. Final offer.”
Claire didn’t hesitate. “I’ll take it.”
A low, distressed cry startled Graham awake.
His eyes snapped open, blinking in the darkness as he oriented himself.
He was at the condo, in his bed, with Claire beside him.
Her body was tense and her head moved from side to side across the pillow.
“No no no...” she repeated, sounding closer to tears with each word.
Graham reached over and put his hand on her cheek, half twisting his torso and going up on his elbow while keeping his legs flat, wishing he could roll over and wrap his arms around her in a tight embrace. “Claire, shh. It’s okay.”
As he brought his palm down to her shoulder, gently stroking her hair, her lids fluttered open. Her gaze caught his and held. “Graham?”
