But unfortunately for both of us, I’m a dumbass, and I need her to be so much more.
My pulse stutters.Shit. I have to tell her what I did.
Tonight.
Nerves race through me, every pulse point pounding hard against my skin, making me acutely aware of just how fucked this situation is. Of what I’m asking of her.
A deep, melodic voice carries through the speakers. It’s smooth. Perfect. And it low-key grates. Too calm. Too polished and proper for the chaos buzzing through my veins.
Jordan scrolls and taps at her phone, shifting in her seat, uncrossing her legs before crossing them the other way. Her dress rides up just a hair, revealing more of her smooth, tanned skin.
Christ.
I’m absolutely fucked.
On so many levels.
Chapter Thirteen
JORDAN
Matt’s acting weird.
Not obvious weird. Subtle weird. The kind only me and maybe Jensen would notice.
I expected him to be a little off right now. Anyone would be. But this feels like more than grief or stress. More than worry about Cole. It’s like he’s holding something back.
He was fine for most of the drive back to his place, joking, flirting, typical Matt. Then, about halfway there, he went quiet. And somehow, that made everything feel awkward.
Matt doesn’t do awkward. He’s the most confident son of a bitch I’ve ever met. He knows how to navigate every situation, and does it with the effortless grace of a king.
He’s grieving and under pressure. So maybe it’s nothing.
But still, I’ve never seen him like this.
“The Silver Oak Napa Valley Cabernet,” our server says, pulling me from my thoughts. He angles the label toward me, waiting for approval.
I give a slight nod. “Looks great.”
He pops the cork and pours a small taste. I swirl the glass before bringing it to my lips, letting the warm, full-bodied liquid coat mytongue. Comfort and sophistication, with undertones of cherry and hints of vanilla and cocoa. It’s a favorite of mine. Matt’s too.
An approving smile ghosts my lips. “It’s perfect. Thank you.”
He fills my glass halfway before pouring Matt’s, then leaves the bottle on the table. I inhale deeply before taking another sip.Yep. It’s good.
Matt’s in my line of vision. He got caught in a conversation on the way to the restroom. Some guy I recognize from a past life of ours. Business, I think.
The restaurant is dim and moody, soft jazz playing in the background. It’s the kind of place that makes you sit up straighter without realizing why. My favorite way to be wined and dined.
Matt finally tears himself away and disappears into the bathroom. My eyes fall back to the menu, landing on the salads.
Rabbit food.
A grin tugs at my lips.Dick.
A couple minutes later, my gaze tracks him as he makes his way back, dodging servers and looking fucking incredible.
I really should have slept with Alexander when I had the chance.
