So was itreallysuch a surprise that the idea of another kiss – and possibly a lot more than a kiss – wasn't sounding so terrible?
Okay, it sounded fantastic, actually.
But this wasn't why I'd called to him in the first place, before ZZ had gotten angry, before Ryder had come down, and most of all, before we'd locked lips like we'd forgotten we were in public.
It was definitely time to refocus.
I took a breath and squared my shoulders.Fine. Forget kissing.
I had questions. He had answers.
But first, I needed to set things straight.
40
Unfinished Business
Ryder
Moonlight spilled across Tessa's face, catching the spark of something magnetic in her eyes that made it hard to resist pulling her back into my arms.
But then, with no warning, she blurted out, "Just so we're clear, I didn't come out here to kiss you."
It broke the spell – and not a moment too soon. With a laugh, I said, "Good to know."
Her lips did a little wobble of protest. "It's not funny."
"It is tome."
She sighed. "You know what? That's just great."
And there they were – those walls that had tumbled down for barely five minutes. The way it looked, they were back up and then some.But could I really blame her?
I'd kissed her – not just once, but twice. And then I'd refused to kiss her again.
It wasn't for lack of wanting. I wanted her more than I should. But there was something else I wanted more.
I wanted to figure all of it out – why I was here, whyshewas here, and why no matter where I went, there she was, haunting my thoughts like music I couldn't shut off.
She was beautiful, sure. But it wasn't just that. I knew this, because I'd seen more than my share of beautiful women. I'd had plenty, too.
What I hadn't had was someone who stayed with me long after the moment passed – and in all of those spaces I usually kept locked down.
I was done pretending. "You and I aren't done. You know that, right?"
She folded her arms tight across her chest. "I don't knowwhatI know. But I do need to ask you something."
"So ask." I held her gaze. "But I'm still gonna walk you home."
She glanced around. "Do you even know where home is?"
"I will when we get there." I gave her a quick once-over, not liking the fact she had only jeans and a sweatshirt to keep herself warm. "You need a coat?"
She hesitated. "Doyou?"
I had to say it. "Nope."
Her lips twitched like she wanted to smile. "Now you're just doing that on purpose."
