Page 20 of Passing Ships

“What the fuck is your problem?” I ask.

Her body goes stiff, and she crosses her arms over her chest. “I don’t have a problem.”

I step into her space and plant my hand against the house above her head. “Are you sure?”

“Of course I’m sure. Why would I lie?”

I shrug. “You just look angsty,” I say.

“Angsty?”

“Yeah, I’m pretty good at reading body language.”

“Learn that in the Navy, did you, Sailor?”

“It’s a good skill to pick up,” I say.

“Well, that skill must be on the fritz because I’m good.”

“Then, why are you acting like a brat?” I ask.

Her mouth falls open, and anger lights her eyes. “I’m not acting like anything. I’m sorry if it hurts your feelings that you’re not getting any attention,” she coos.

I chuckle at her defiant display and watch her cheeks turn red.

I bring my free hand up and tuck a wisp of hair behind her ear.

“I didn’t peg you for a woman who plays silly games.”

“I didn’t peg you for an insecure boy who can’t take a little rejection,” she says.

“Is that what this is?” I ask.

She stands up on the tip of her toes so that we’re nose to nose.

“What it is, is me letting you know that we spent a less than memorable night together, and I’m not interested in a repeat, so for the sake of Sebastian and Avie, we should just pretend it never happened.”

“I can do that,” I bite out.

“Good. So can I,” she retorts.

“Glad we cleared that up. Think you can drop the attitude now?” I ask.

Her lips curl seductively. “Sure, Seaman. I can play nice if you can.”

She plants a kiss on the corner of my mouth before ducking under my arm and sashaying back toward my family.

She has a great walk.

Just enough sway to her hips to get your attention and your imagination churning, but not enough to make it look like she is seeking to be ogled.

It’s sexy as hell and effective because I sure appreciate the view.

This is going to be a long month.

Amiya

“Amiya! What did you do to Lennon?” Avie asks as she barges toward me.