Chapter10
Maverick
Over the next week, I occasionally dipped into the bookstore to use the bathroom.We had a portable bathroom, but it wasn't that great, and using the one in the store gave me an opportunity to observe Belle.
Today, she was sitting in the rocking chair in the children's section, reading a book, surrounded by a group of kids.She hadn't seen me, so I stood off to the side to watch her.She leaned forward, moving the open book around the half circle, so that everyone could see the pictures.
Her tone was soft and engaging, changing voices for each character.I was just as entranced with her reading as the kids who sat cross-legged on the floor in front of her.
She wore a purple cardigan over a white blouse with a black skirt with tights.She always dressed nicely and looked professional.It made me want to muss her clothes, rip those tights off, and maybe knock her reading glasses askew.
This was the reason I was supposed to stay away from her.I wanted to corrupt her, but she wasn't that kind of girl.
She probably preferred missionary position in a comfortable bed.Not me finger fucking her between the stacks.Just the thought of that had me getting hard.
I ducked into the bathroom to get some space from my errant thoughts.I wasn't supposed to be watching her.
When I came out of the bathroom, story time was over, and people were dispersing.Some to play with the toys, others to pick out books, and a few were checking out.
Belle was busy at the counter, but she looked up and caught my gaze.A slow smile spread over her face.I couldn't help but move toward her."You're busy today."
"Everyone loves story time."And then to the customer."Thanks for coming in.I can't wait to hear how Simon likes it."
The mother smiled, taking her paper bag of books."I'll let you know next week."
There was no one else in line, and suddenly, I wondered what I was doing here.
Belle tucked a chunk of hair behind her ear."You were watching me during story time."
"You saw that?"
She nodded.
"Your voice is engaging.I liked listening to you—you know, the story."I almost slipped and admitted how much I was enthralled by her and not just the book she was reading.
She was quiet, just watching me.
"You're good with them.You know, the kids," I was quick to add, hoping she didn't see right through me.Why was it so hot in here?How could she think straight?
She bit her lip, then slowly released it."I don't mind if you listen at story time."
I smiled, trying to go for nonchalant."Just don't tell my brothers.They'll give me hell for it."
"I won't," she said as I backed away, needing space.
It was easier when I stayed outside and watched through the window.Coming inside to see her working made everything worse.The more I saw, the more I liked her.She was sweet with the kids and everyone else.It wasn't a persona she put on; she really was a nice girl.She deserved the best, not someone like me.
We were too different.It was a mantra I kept repeating to myself when I was alone at night and thinking about her wearing reading glasses and cardigans.It shouldn't have been sexy, but it was.
I was drawn to her, and it hadn't diminished with time or distance.That made what I was doing more dangerous.
I left more determined than ever to keep my distance.It was a job.One I'd do well and then move on.The pictures would go in my portfolio, new clients would roll in, and I'd be busier than ever.I wouldn't have time to even think about Belle and her bookstore.This pesky crush would be in the past.
After I ensured that everything was cleaned up, I met Ford and Hudson at the bar down the street.Since we worked in the same town, we occasionally met for a beer after work.
They were already seated at the bar, so I pulled out the stool next to Ford.
He raised a brow."Rain put an early end to your workday?"
