He inhaled sharply.“That’s a strong move.Did he know you love books?”
My head tilted as I considered it.“He sat in my townhouse today waiting for me, so I’m guessing he saw my bookshelves and put it together.Are you gonna keep quiet about Lark and why I was hanging outside there so much?”
“Yes, but sweetie, you need to talk to Lark.”
I pressed my lips together.“I did, and I’ll tell you all about it later.”
“Later, when?Because I’m guessing itwon’tbe later tonight.”
No, I didn’t expect that either.
“If you can swing it, we’ll do lunch again tomorrow.”
“Fine, but we’re going to Okinawa.”
I shook my head.“We can’t go there.It’s community tables and no privacy.”
“You are not helping here, Brummis.It’s more of a hike for you, but we’ll do Kickbacks.”
It wasn’t really more of a hike for me, but I’d let him think so.“Deal.I’ll text you when I know my schedule.”
“Have fun, and do that man every way you can.”
“Chad!”I cried.
“Girlie.He is fine, and you know you want to.Live it up.You deserve it.”
Chapter 16
Second Location
Ivy
Iendedthecall,grabbed my purse, and ducked my face while I put my phone away.
“I’d ask you what he said to make you blush so hard, but I’m pretty sure I can guess.”
I turned to Ryan and tried not to glare.“You shouldn’t gloat.”
His smirk looked almost boyish.“I’m not gloating now, but I damn sure will later.”
“Ryan!”
A food runner put our plates on the table and I’d never been so happy to be interrupted before.
I heard his quiet, rumbly laugh before he said, “You’re fucking adorable.”
I stirred my drink.“Did you call me adorable?”
“Yep.”
I sighed.“The last person to call me that was Jeff.”
One of his eyes narrowed on me.“Is he the person who ruined ‘Ives’ for you?”
“No, not at all.”
He nodded once.“Didn’t you say your step-dad’s name was Jeff?He passed away.”
