I chuckle, a little too tight, and reach for my phone. “It’s cute how you think I’m asking you out on a date.”
She looks out the window again and rubs her arms, like she can already feel the cold.
“I’ll just grab a sweater from my suitcase.”
“No.” I step in before she can move, sliding neatly between her and the suitcase. “You California people never own real winter clothes. I’ve got plenty of coats out front. You’re welcome to any of them.”
She narrows her eyes. “You’re acting weird.”
I am acting weird.
I force a smile and gesture toward the door. “Just… being hospitable. Your family would never forgive me if you caught a cold.”
She watches me for a long beat. “At least tell me where we’re going.”
“And ruin the surprise?”
She plants both hands on her hips. “I hate surprises.”
“No, Pix. I hate surprises. You love them. Your brother told me as much.”
Her mouth twitches, caught between a protest and a smile. Then she turns and heads for the door.
I fall in step behind her, already firing off a rapid succession of texts to my team.
Me
Alpha Team Alert
My house. Connor’s Room.
Crazy-looking backpack. Loud purple suitcase.
Full search.
Remove all things threatening or suspicious.
“Are you coming?” Pix asks.
She’s already in my shearling jacket, drowning in it. Sleeves past her hands. Collar brushing her chin.
My traitorous brain instantly pictures her naked underneath.
I clear my throat. Hard.
“Um. Coming. Yes.” Shit. “One sec.”
Me
And if you wake my kids, I will kill you.
A thumbs-up emoji pops back immediately from A.T.
I pocket my phone and lead her through the kitchen and out the back door.
CHAPTER 29
Harrison
