Page 32 of To Steal a Heart
Her throat tightened as she swallowed. “Was it that bad?” Moisture formed in her eyes. She pushed it back, refusing to let a single tear fall. She was confused by his reaction—humiliated.
She tried to extricate herself from his arms. “You can go,” she said dully. “I release you from any obligation.” First, Hector and now Crew. Maybe she should give up men altogether. For some strange reason, Crew’s rejection hurt a lot more than Hector’s. Perhaps it was because she thought that Crew might be the real deal.
He kept a tight hold on her waist. “No,” he said hoarsely. “It’s not that.”
Suddenly she was angry. “Then what?”
“That kiss was … something.”
“Something good or something bad?” she spat.
“Something amazing.” His face took on a glow. “I never expected to feel that.”
Maybe all wasn’t lost, after all. “Feel what?”
“That power or connection. Did you feel it?”
A shaky laugh left her throat. “Yeah, I did.”
Wonderment overtook his expression. “That’s never happened to me before.” He laughed to himself. “I’ve seen it happen to other people—to Chloe and Hank—but I never understood ….”
She slurped out a giggle. “Is this some cheesy pickup line?”
His expression grew intense. “No. I’m telling you the truth.”
She relaxed. “So the kiss was a good thing?”
“A great thing.” His expression grew tender as he cupped her jaw. He stroked his thumb back and forth over her skin. “Arden, I’ve never met anyone like you. You’re bold and fearless. Not afraid to speak your mind.”
“No,” she chuckled. “I certainly have no problem with that.”
“If you only knew how much we’re alike. I think I’m falling for you.”
She blinked. “After only two days?”
Regret tinged his features. “I’m doing it again,” he said miserably, “coming on too strong.”
“Oh, no you’re not,” she said with a hearty conviction as she pulled him close for another long and breathless kiss.
A little while later, they made their way into the kitchen. Arden was still puzzled by Crew’s odd behavior. And yet, she couldn’t deny that she was having some strong feelings for him also. She’d felt the connection, just as Crew described. One thing was certain. If she and Crew were indeed meant to be together, then time would tell. She didn’t need to get worked up about the future. Right now, the directive for the day was to simply have fun and enjoy spending time with Crew.
“I thought I’d make us some sandwiches before we head out.”
“Great idea.”
“How did it go at the mechanic?”
“Great. All fixed.”
“How much do I owe you?”
A wry grin slid over his lips. “Now you’re insulting my manhood.”
Laughter gurgled in her throat. “Insulting your manhood? Really?”
“Yeah, I don’t mind covering the cost. Small kine.”
“Thanks, but it’s not necessary.” Crew was going to freak when he realized how much she was worth.