Page 33 of One Hot Chase

I the heat in my cheeks intensifies. "I'm not blushing. It's just...kind of stuffy in here."

"Mmm, it is rather cozy," he agrees as he wriggles toward me. "But I doubt that's why your cheeks have turned a charming shade of rosy pink."

I swallow hard, desperately searching for a witty comeback. But my brain seems to have short-circuited, leaving me speechless as Declan's gaze holds mine captive.

"Cat got your tongue, Bree?"

"I...you..." My stammering only makes me sound more flustered. Pull yourself together, woman. Thankfully, the taxi comes to a stop, saving me from further embarrassment.

"Tower Bridge, folks," the driver announces cheerfully.

I practically leap out of the car, gulping in the cool night air like it's a glass of cold beer. Declan follows at a more leisurely pace, looking annoyingly composed.

"Well, here we are," he announces, gesturing grandly at the illuminated Tower Bridge before us. "Shall we take that walk I suggested?"

I cross my arms, glaring at him. "I didn't agree to any walk. I'm going home."

"Don't be so petulant, Sabrina. How about just a short stroll? The view is spectacular at night and very romantic."

I hesitate, torn between my desire to flee and my curiosity about what Declan might say or do next. Against my better judgment, I find myself agreeing. "Fine. One lap across the bridge and back. Then I'm leaving."

Declan's face lights up with a boyish grin that makes my heart skip a beat. "Brilliant!"

I wish he didn't look so adorably excited. That makes it hard for me to go on despising him.

He offers his arm, which I pointedly ignore as we begin walking. We're silent for a few moments as we take in the breathtaking panorama of the illuminated bridge and the glittering Thames below. I hate to admit it, but Declan was right. It is spectacular.

"So," says he, breaking the silence. "Are you going to tell me why you really ran out of that pub?"

I stiffen, caught off guard by his directness. "I told you, I needed the ladies' room."

His lips form a teasing curve. "You have no talent for lying, Sabrina. We both know you never intended to use the loo. What spooked you?"

I bite my lip, debating how much to reveal. "I...I don't do relationships. Not anymore. I told you that. But you veering dangerously close to relationship territory back there."

Declan is quiet for a moment, and I sneak a glance at him. His brow is furrowed, his expression thoughtful. "And that frightens you."

I bristle at his perceptiveness. "I'm not scared. I'm...cautious."

"Hmm." A hint of amusement tinges his voice. "Is that what you call bolting out of pubs and trying to escape in taxis?"

I shoot him a glare. "I don't see how it's any of your business. Gah, I wish I'd never told you about my marriage."

Declan stops walking, turning to face me. His expression is serious now, all traces of teasing gone. "It became my business when you challenged me to chase you, love. I don't take such invitations lightly."

"It was a moment of weakness. One I regret."

"Do you?" he asks softly, stepping closer. "Because I don't regret a single moment I've spent with you, Bree."

His words, and his use of my nickname, send a shiver down my spine. I take a step back, my shoulders hitting the railing of the bridge. "Declan, I---"

"Shh," he murmurs, closing the distance between us. His hand comes up to cup my cheek, his thumb tracing my jawline. "I know you're scared. I understand why. But I'm not your ex-husband, Sabrina. I won't hurt you."

I want to believe him. God, do I want to believe him. But the walls I've built around my heart are high and thick. My voice becomes barely a whisper. "You can't promise that."

"You're right," he agrees. "I can't promise I'll never hurt you. But I swear to you I have no intention of doing so."

"Then will you do me a favor?"