Wren felt her stomach flutter. Catching up would mean she was sticking around. Getting to know more of Elias’ friends. Making themherfriends.
‘Serious girlfriend’ activities.
She braved a look at Elias to gauge his reaction, not knowing what she’d see in his eyes. Acceptance or annoyance?
And which do I want to see?
Meeting his gaze was like looking into a mirror. She saw the same question for her in his lagoon-blue eyes. They both looked away at the same time.
With the same thoughtful smiles.
EIGHT
“I’m afraid I’m still full from lunch,” Wren said as Elias pulled up in front of his house. The truck’s tires crunched over gravel and the engine rumbled quietly before Elias turned the key. Silence settled around them.
Elias leaned back in his seat and looked at her, a mischievous glint in his eyes. “Maybe we can think of something to work up another appetite?”
Wren rolled her eyes but couldn’t stop the giggle that bubbled up. “Your pickup lines are terrible, you know that?”
“Still got you to giggle. That’s another point for me,” he said with a triumphant grin.
Wren pretended to pout. “I forgot to keep score today.”
“Oh don’t worry, I still am. And I’m way ahead of you,” Elias teased.
Wren cocked her head, a playful challenge in her eyes. “Somehow, I don’t believe you.”
Elias chuckled as he unbuckled his seatbelt.
“Ha! Point for me,” Wren declared, unbuckling her seatbelt. “We’re tied.”
Elias narrowed his eyes “I thought you weren’t keeping score?”
“So, new rule. Default tie if I forget to keep score.”
“Oh, who’s not playing fair now?”
Before Wren could respond, Elias lunged across the seat, catching her by surprise. He reached for her, pulled her close, and she yelped in mock protest as his lips found hers. The kiss was warm and lingering, filled with the promise of more to come. Wren’s heart skipped a beat as she melted into him.
When they finally broke apart, Elias left her breathless, her pulse thrumming in her ears. The spark of mischief in Elias’ eyes sent a thrill through her.
He went in for a second kiss, this time also pulling her on top of his lap.
Sharp pain ripped through her upper back. Wren yelped and broke off the kiss.
“What did I do?” Elias looked distraught as he studied her for injuries.
“Not you, promise.” Wren grimaced. “It’s just my shoulder. Nice time for it to act up.”
“Which one?”
“Both, but the left one is barking at me right now.” She waved him off. “It’s okay. Sorry.”
“It’s not okay.” He tentatively ran his hand over her shoulder to her back. “Don’t ever apologize for hurting,” he said. “How long has this been going on?”
“Since I broke a wheel on my rolling camera bag and had to switch to carrying my equipment. I’m dumb for not replacing it right away, I know.”
“Hey.” Elias frowned. “Don’t ever call yourself dumb.” He kissed the tip of her nose. “We should get your bags and head inside where it’s more comfortable.” His voice sounded huskier than before.
