“It keeps things interesting.” He gives me a fleeting grin and then pulls out his phone. “It’s Zoe.”
My heart deflates as I nod.
Rather than answering, he clicks the side button to silence the call and shoves the phone back into his pocket. He glances at his car with determination. “Almost there.”
Holding out my hands for balance, I make my way in that direction, nearly falling again.
He laughs and encircles my waist with his arm. “Slowly.”
When we reach the car, he helps me in before going around and sitting behind the wheel. Meanwhile, I rub my arms, shivering from the cold.
“It’ll take a bit for the heat to come on,” he says in apology.
His phone rings again. Zoe’s not giving up. “Maybe you should get it.”
“Nah, I’ll call her when I get home.”
It’s probably a good thing that Zoe called when she did. Kissing Axel would’ve been a huge mistake. And yet, I can’t help but be disappointed that nothing happened. He’s probably relieved that he didn’t unnecessarily complicate his life because of a spontaneous moment.
Finally, the heat in the car kicks in. I hold out my hands to warm them.
“I should probably drop you off at your house before the roads get bad. I can pick you up tomorrow morning after things thaw.”
Panic races through my veins. “No, that’s okay. I’ll just get my car. It’ll be easier that way.” My hotel isn’t far from his house. I could even walk there if I had to. Well, not in these old tennis shoes. I’d fall and break something, especially at the rate I’m going.
“I don’t mind taking you home.”
“It’s okay. I’m good.” I throw him a reassuring smile. “Let’s just go back to your place.”
After a long pause, he nods. “If you’re sure.”
“I’m sure.” He has to be wondering what this is about, but thankfully, he doesn’t press me.
When we pull into his garage, I throw open the door and scramble out … intent on making my escape before he can askquestions I can’t answer. “Thanks for everything,” I say over my shoulder.
“London.”
I turn to face him. “Yeah?”
“Thanks for going tonight. It means a lot.”
Our gazes catch and hold. There’s something significant in his eyes.
Once again, attraction floods me. Somehow, I manage to find my voice. “You’re welcome. I’m sorry about earlier … the fall … and the rest …”
A slow smile moves over his mouth. “I’m not.”
“Really?” I jerk in surprise, nearly falling again.
He chuckles and holds out a hand. “Careful. Do you need help getting to your car?”
“I’ve got it.” More cautiously this time, I turn and go to my car without incident.
He watches as I start the engine and drive away.
Chapter
Six
