Page 125 of The Bitter Words

“For that comment, you’ll get what?—”

The sexiest man I’ve seen in a while has his back to me and snags my attention. I have to check him out.

His ass is round and firm. It connects to nice, thick thighs that are solid and stable. His shoulders are broad and his waist is trim. That man definitely works out.

I bet he could throw me around like I was nothing but a feather. I tilt my head to get a better view as I salivate over him.

He turns my way and I gasp. A zing strikes through me, and my core releases a wave of sexual desire.

“Holy shit.” I grasp the top of the chair to stop myself from falling over.

“What?”

I swallow and glance at Gia as I shake off the attraction I have for the man who causes me to have wild reactions to him. “Nothing. I thought I recognized someone, but it turned out to be someone else.”

“That happens to me all the time.”

I nod and press my lips together. The last time I saw Jaxon Crowne, I made a pass at him and he flat-out turned me down.

He told me I was just a young lady who had a crush on a man because I couldn’t have him.

Fuck!

First Callum and that stupid video and now Jaxon Crowne, who thinks I’m some pathetic little girl. The rejection stabs me in the heart.

I grab my clutch off the table. “Gia, I need to use the restroom. I’ll get us a cocktail on the way back.”

“Sounds good.” She places her phone inside her purse. “I’ll be right here waiting.”

“Um-hmm.” I beeline to the bathroom and slip into a stall.

Thankfully, I have my stash with me and I can forget all dumb men for the night. Marco gave me a few capsules of Molly to try and I can’t think of a better time than now.

I take one out and leave to find some water. As I’m coming back into the party with the drugs cupped in my palm, a tall, handsome man with dark hair joins me at my side.

“Hi.” He dips his head to acknowledge me. “I noticed you were alone. Would you like some company?”

“I’m here with a friend, but you’re welcome to join us.” I gesture to the bar. “Would you mind if I stop and get us a drink? I promised to bring her one once I returned.”

“By all means.” He offers a guiding palm.

I let him steer me to the line.

“I’m Mateo Beckett and I believe you’re Livianna Hemings.”

“You would be correct.” I face him as we wait. “I’ve heard about you, Mateo.”

“Is that good or bad?”

“Good.”

“Phew. For a second, I thought meeting you might end poorly.” His brown eyes gleam down at me.

“I try not to judge anyone I haven’t met.”

“That’s a great rule to follow.”

“People lie all the time, so I never take anyone’s word about how they feel about someone.”