At the end of her shift, Olivia cleaned up and went to say goodbye to Ivy, but was worried, when she saw Ivy’s pale skin. “I’ll cancel my plans, and we’ll stay home tonight.”
“No, Mom go. Susan and I will just hang out on the couch. Don’t worry about me.”
“That’s like telling a bird not to fly, of course, I’ll worry about you. I don’t want to go if you’re sick.”
“I’m not sick. It’s just a headache, and nothing to worry about. I guess, I didn’t drink enough water today or something. I’m fine.”
Olivia wasn’t convinced. Ivy was a tough kid, but Olivia could see the misery in her daughter’s eyes. She was putting on a brave face for her. “I’ll stay.”
“No, you’ll go out.” Ivy insisted. “Kathy said you have to go no matter what.”
Interfering woman.
“Are you sure you’ll be alright? Heath can wait.” Ivy would always come first for her.
“I’m fine, I promise. I’ll drink some water and lay down on the couch.” Ivy promised her and gave her a side hug.
Olivia wanted to argue but knew arguing with a preteen was the worst idea. The more Olivia would insist on staying the more Ivy would fight back, saying she was fine. “Fine, I’ll be back shortly.” She would tell Heath and come right back.
Olivia walked through the alley next to the diner, knowing Heath would already be waiting for her. As she thought, he was leaning against his truck with his arms crossed, showing off his bulging biceps in his black tee.
Olivia took a fortifying breath to steel herself against his appeal. She had to tell him the truth now, so she could get back to Ivy, and she couldn’t allow herself to get distracted.
“Liv,” his eyes lit up, as they roamed over her body. She’d dressed in skinny jeans and another tank top. Since she hadn’t originally planned on telling him tonight, she’d dressed to impress. Her body heated, and her nipples pebbled, knowing what was to come.
No, it’s not.
Olivia stopped in front of him and took a deep breath. “Heath, I have—” her words were cut off, when Heath swooped down and stole a kiss. She tried to resist, she really did, but her damn body responded almost instantly. Like every time they came together like this, like her mind shut off and her hands raked through his hair, pulling him closer.
“Damn, I’ve missed you all day. I couldn’t focus on shit. All I wanted to do was see you again.” He pulled back, stroking his thumb over her cheek. “You’ve bewitched me.”
Olivia felt her heart break. “You bewitched me, too.” She was falling in love with him. Head over heels in love with him, and she was powerless to stop it.
“Come on,” he started, tugging her down the sidewalk.
“Wait, I have to tell you something first.”
“There you are,” a new voice said behind them. Olivia spun around and gulped, as she had to crane her head to look at the man’s face. He was huge and familiar. She saw him at the carnival with Heath.
“Mike,” Heath growled the man’s name in irritation. “This is Olivia. Olivia this is Mike. He and I work together.”
“Nice to meet you.” She said politely, holding out her hand.
Mike shook it, and she noted how gentle he was, despite his size. She could see why he was in security. Anyone would have to be a fool to try and get through him. He looked like he could crush skulls with just his bare hands. Mike made Royce’s guards look puny in comparison. “Same here. I’ve heard a lot about you.”
“Mike,” Heath said in warning.
“What?” Mike asked mockingly. “You’ve been telling us about her, but you’ve been hiding her. Now, I can see why.”
Heath took a step in front of Olivia, placing himself between her and Mike. Not that it did much good. Mike was taller than Heath, and she could easily see him over Heath’s shoulder. “That’s enough.”
“So touchy.” Mike grinned broadly, as if this all amused him.
“I mean it, back off.” Heath stared him down, before turning to her. “Let’s go,” Heath took her hand and led her down the street.
“Where are we going?” She asked, stretching her legs, trying to keep up with his hurried pace. Mike didn’t seem to have an issue keeping up with them.
“To meet the rest of my friends. It was something I couldn’t get out of.”
