?
With the car idling in the soft glow of the diner’s lights, Arden eased back into the seat, claiming the space like it was hers.
The cabin carried the echo of motion—saturated in heat, leather, and the trace of him.
He dropped into the seat beside her with quiet ease, all coiled composure.
But his eyes didn’t lie.
They dragged across her slowly. Not lewd. Not polite either.
Her legs crossed, high-waisted denim tightening across her hips, the shimmer of her blouse catching enough light to draw the eye. She didn’t rush the movement. Didn’t need to.
He noticed.
She smiled, slow and unhurried.
“I’ve made my decision.”
His brow lifted, interest flickering like a match.
“About?”
“Which of you wins.”
Gideon leaned back, arm settling on the wheel like he had all night to wait her out.
“And?”
She let the silence stretch, curling between them, until she saw the flicker of anticipation spark behind his eyes.
“I’ve decided…” She leaned in slightly, voice low. “The car is definitely sexier.”
He didn’t flinch. Not at first.
But something shifted.
His gaze dropped to her mouth, then lower.
A slow, predatory sweep.
“Is that so?”
“Mmm.” She bit back a grin, her hand resting lightly on the center console.
His smirk reappeared—cocky and dangerous. “Then let’s raise the stakes.”
“Oh?” Her voice was pure challenge now. “You want a rematch?”
“I want a bet.” His tone dropped as he turned toward her fully, crowding the space without touching her.
“I bet I can change your mind before the night’s over.”
“And if you lose?”
His smile turned wicked.
“I don’t.”
