Page 10 of The Sweet Talker

I usually like to keep my private life private, although in this small town, rumors spread like wildfire and I’m sure everyone knows I’m a widow, even though no one brings it up and the only one I ever shared my tragic past with was Mabel. Under the circumstances, however, I do owe Brody an explanation.

I put my hands over my eyes groaning, trying to figure out a way to word it. The next thing I know his warm hands are on mine, and holy God, the streak of warmth careening through my blood from a simple touch is absolutely lightning-strike insane. What is it about this guy that gets me all fired up without even trying? I’ve not been attracted to anyone since Jon. Haven’t wanted to be attracted to anyone, and this hockey player comes sauntering into town like he owns it, and without even trying, messes with my carefully constructed life.

; I should run, get out now.

Oh, but he’s your pretend boyfriend now, Josie.

Dammit.

He tugs my hands from my face. “You don’t have to tell me if you don’t want to.”

“That was Patrick,” I say with a heavy sigh. “He’s such a nice man, so sweet and a huge supporter of my business. He’s the first customer every morning and the last customer every night.”

“He sounds terrible.” He scrunches up his face like he just tasted something nasty. “I would have pretended to be in a relationship to get rid of him too. Good call.”

I glare at him, and do my best not to laugh at his antics. He is kind of funny. “It’s not like that.”

“I’m kidding. You know that.” He twists his lips. “But I can only guess it’s not just your chocolate he likes.”

“I guess. He’s asked me out a few times. Or a dozen.”

“And that’s not something you want?”

“I don’t date.” I blurt that out so fast and with such conviction, his brow arches and before he can ask me why, I continue. “I hate to hurt anyone’s feelings so I…”

“Wait,” He says and holds his hands up. “You had no trouble hurting my feelings this afternoon. I’m pretty sure you told me to go get driving lessons.”

I cringe, covering my face again. “I’m sorry. I was upset. I shouldn’t have taken it out on you. Please, tell me how I can make that up to you.”

“Hey,” he says his voice soft and soothing as he takes my hand, this time holding it between his, and I work extra hard not to melt at his feet as his warmth seeps into my skin. I glance down, note the way his big palm smothers my small hand. Oddly enough, it doesn’t make me feel small, but instead fills me with a sense of security and comfort, and I haven’t felt that way in a long time. In fact, I’ve been taking care of myself, been alone since...since my late husband. “I’m just kidding.” He gives me a wink. “I’m tougher than that. You should hear what the guys say to me when I’m off my game and the opposing team gets a breakaway.”

“I doubt that ever happens. Look at you.” I gaze at his rough and tough physique, admire the small scar on his face. It gives him character, adds to his charm.

Stop thinking about him like that, Josie.

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

In an exaggerated manner, I blow out a breath. “You’re not just a smart ass, you’re a smart guy. You know what I mean.”

“I’m sure there was a compliment buried in there somewhere.” We both laugh, tension easing from my body as he lifts himself up to his full height, clearly liking the way I admire his strength and stature.

“Look, I really am sorry.” I think about losing my phone, the last message left to me by my late husband. It’s strange really. I used to think everything happened for a reason, too, but I can’t see the reason behind my phone being carried away by a plow. “Have you ever had a bad day, and wondered what you did in a past life to deserve it?”

“All the time,” he says in a soft, supportive voice that commiserates with me, and it’s weird, but I like that he understands, that he’s on my side. His head lifts and he looks past my shoulders when we hear a noise out back. I turn, and through the glass partition that allows customers to watch us make chocolate, I spot Kayley putting things away for the night.

“That’s Kayley. She’s my assistant and I must warn you, she’s a big fan. Despite your reputation.”

He grins as I not so subtly let him know I’m aware of his game—his off-ice game that is. “Which means you obviously brought me up to her.”

“I had no choice but to mention the slush incident. I came in here soaking wet and nearly frozen to death.”

“So you did bring me up?”

I shake my head at him. “That’s your takeaway?”

“That, and you clearly couldn’t stop thinking about me, then?”