He shook himself suddenly, emitting a laugh that made her jump. It brought back everything she’d felt lying on that table in his back room. Something in that dark look stirred a longing between her legs that had her shifting positions. “It’s the truth,” he said, his gaze lingering on her face. If he only knew… “That’s sweet of you to say.” “Any man you’re in love with who doesn’t love you back is a damn fool.” I mean, I’ve loved someone, but, um…I don’t think there can be true, unequivocal love unless that person loves you in return. So easily it could have rolled right off her tongue. Ohhh, that was a dangerous thought to entertain. I’m at least ninety-nine percent certain I am right now. She straightened, certain she was blushing. My parents have always been disgustingly in love. “Is that all you need? Someone you can tolerate? What about finding someone you love?” “It’s a matter of finding someone who doesn’t drive me up the f**king wall.” “Actually, I’m not opposed to a commitment, Candace.” His use of her name right then sent a funny jolt through her stomach. “You don’t want a commitment,” she supplied, sounding too glum to her own ears. We were both two entirely different people, heading in different directions.” The longer it went on, the more serious it started to get, and it wasn’t happening for me. If you want me to pinpoint some catalyst for you, I can’t. Michelle was a self-proclaimed nymphomaniac. She had the feeling “liked her” equated to “she was dy***ite in the sack”. But I was willing to let it ride.” He shrugged. She had the feeling he was patronizing her, as if she was a naïve little girl and he was trying to protect her from all the ugliness in the world. Two more wrong-for-each-other people never existed.” “Honey, we were just totally wrong for each other. “I know I said it’s not my business, so feel free to shut me down. Her phone buzzed in her jeans pocket…probably Samantha requesting another update. Candace shoved the wad of popcorn she was holding into her mouth and tried to concentrate.

On her flat screen, the cave-dwelling monsters were launching their attack upon the hapless spelunkers. Tearing his gaze away from her suddenly, he took a drink from his beer and focused on the movie again. What did that mean? Apparently, he wasn’t going to elaborate. “Missed you?” he asked, giving her shoulder a few teasing taps. I’d have gone in to see you sooner if I’d known you…I mean, that you…” That warmed her all over, rendered her momentarily speechless.

It was damn sure the most pleasant surprise I’ve gotten in a while.”

“I couldn’t believe it when you walked into my parlor the other day.

His teeth were perfectly straight, even and dazzling against his olive complexion. He grinned, and she could’ve sunk five inches into the couch for the way she melted.

Rock Me by Cherrie Lynn