“A book,” I clarify. “It’s not like I’m bringing flowers or something.”
Although. I did see some nice autumn arrangements in the florist’s window on my way here. Maybe I should have picked one up. Surprised her with it when I set out all the food at the table. I bet Hazel would like having a pop of fall colors in the cabin. A little extra cheer when she’s feeling down.
“I think a book is better than flowers,” Winter says. “Not that flowers aren’t nice,” she adds quickly, “but a book lasts longer. And it can be more meaningful, too.”
Enzo turns to Winter. “So you’re saying Alec bought ameaningfulgift for Hazel?”
“It’s not meaningful,” I protest. “It’s just a book.”
“Okay.” Winter smiles at me. “If you say so.”
“Well,” Enzo adds, “I guess we should let you get going. So you can give your completelymeaninglessgift to Hazel.”
“I thought it would make her feel better,” I retort. “Is there something wrong with wanting to cheer Hazel up?”
“Of course not.” Enzo reaches through the open window to clap me on the shoulder. “It sounds like a great idea.”
Exactly. A bookisa great idea for a gift. A platonic gift for someone who’s just a friend.
“As nice as this chat has been,” I say, “I’d like to get the food to Hazel’s before it’s ice cold.”
Winter laughs. “Okay, okay.” To Enzo, she says, “I think we’ve harassed Alec enough tonight. And I bet Comet and Rusty are hungry by now.”
I shift the truck back into gear. “Enjoy the rest of your night. I’ll see you later.”
But as I accelerate away, Winter’s cheerful voice carries after me, “Enjoy your date, Alec!”
My fingers tighten on the steering wheel. My jaw clenches.
It’snota date.
It’s just dinner with a friend.
I’ve almost convinced myself of it by the time I reach Hazel’s front door. Shifting all the bags to one arm, I ring the doorbell, then knock three times to follow.
And if my heart beats a little faster as I hear her footsteps approach the door?
If anticipation rushes through me at the thought of seeing Hazel again?
Shit. I don’t knowwhatthat means.
Liar.
I damn well know what it means. I just don’t want?—
“Alec!” Hazel opens the door and beams at me. “You’re here!”
The instant I see her, all thoughts of platonic friendship and meaningless gifts and casual dinners disappear.
Shit.
She looksbeautiful.
Not that I haven’t thought that before—I’ve thought it whenever I see her, really—but tonight there’s just something about Hazel that takes her beauty to a whole different level.
Maybe it’s the sparkle in her eyes, turning them to a brilliant sapphire. Maybe it’s the pretty pink flush to her cheeks. Or the gorgeous smile that’s brighter than any I’ve seen on her. Maybe it’s the way her dress drapes over her lush curvesand the shining curtain of hair spilling over her shoulders.
Without thinking, I step forward, gathering Hazel in my arms. Her scent wraps around me, imprinting on my memory. Her silky hair brushes my skin as she leans into me, and a soft sigh whispers across my skin.
