Page 16 of Unbridled Fire
“I told you, I’m old too. We’re both in our forties and I don’t really have time for social media. Although I do like the sexy Henry Cavill and Pedro Pascal memes. I’m only human.”
His lips formed the faintest hint of a smile, and I took a moment to gaze at his profile. His ever-present stubble had shades of gray and brown, and I wondered what it would feel like against my skin...
We continued to chat as gratitude washed over me. What would I have done if Leo hadn’t shown up? Although I was used to doing things on my own, I could certainly investigate with him to ensure my safety.
When he pulled up to my apartment, he found a spot and parked. “I’d like to walk you in if that’s okay. I just need to see you safely inside your house.”
Something washed over me at the poignant sentiment, causing little butterflies to flutter deep in my belly. “Sure.”
He escorted me inside and up the stairs to my second-floor apartment. Once inside, I gestured around the foyer. “Well, we made it, and I’m okay.” Closing the distance between us, I placed my hand on his chest. “Thank you, Leo.”
“You’re welcome.” His voice was gruff as his eyes bore into mine. “We can surveil the apartment building together tomorrow night if you want to.”
“Not tomorrow.” I shook my head. “It’s Elena’s birthday, and I always visit her at the cemetery.” Energy pulsed between us, and I asked him something I’d never asked another soul on the planet. “Do you want to come with me to visit her?”
Leo’s eyes widened slightly, and embarrassment warmed my cheeks.
“Okay, that waswaytoo serious. Who asks someone who just saved their life to come visit their dead sister with them? Sorry, I just—”
“I’d love to come with you,” he interjected softly. “I’m available from ten a.m. ‘till noon.”
My pulse quickened in my throat as I swallowed thickly. I couldfeelthe heat emanating off his muscular frame, and God help me, I wanted to wrap my arms around him and beg him to kiss me.
“Only if you’re sure—”
“I’m sure.” He covered my hand atop his chest. “It’s going to be a tough day, and I’d like to be there for you. I visit my mom’s grave on her birthday each year too.”
My chin warbled as I fought back tears. “It’s nice to know someone who understands grief. It’s such a bitch, isn’t it?”
“The fucking worst.” He smiled. “But it’s nice to remember them.”
“Yeah,” I whispered.
I licked my suddenly-parched lips, and his gaze lowered, his breath growing heavy. Removing his hand, he backed away. “You need to clean that cut. Do you want me to help you?”
“Oh, no,” I said, feeling frazzled as I ran a hand through my hair. “I can do it. You’ve definitely done enough today. Thanking you doesn’t seem like enough. I’d offer to cook you something,but I’m a terrible cook. I can strip for you, if you like. I’m pretty good at that.”
His eyebrows lifted, and I laughed. “Wow, we’re going to work on this teasing thing. You’re terrible at it.”
He breathed a laugh, his lips curling into that smile that sent my heartrate into overdrive. “Yeah, I’m too serious. You can help me with that and we’ll call it even.” He backed toward the door and gave a salute. “Text me in the morning. I can pick you up and drive to the cemetery if you want.”
I nodded. I’d never owned a car since mass transit in Brooklyn was easily accessible and rideshares were also an option, but riding with Leo would be easier. “Sounds like a plan.”
He exited the door, and I peeped through the hole, noticing he was waiting until he heard my locks click. I turned them both, and he pivoted to walk away.
Heading into my bedroom, I took a shower and cleaned my cut. Afterward, I felt restless, so I headed downstairs and poured a glass of wine.
The day had been exhausting, ending with a freaking assault for god’s sake, and I inhaled a deep breath, reminding myself I was okay. Much of that was due to Leo.
Michael’s words buzzed through my head, and I pondered them.I think Leo has a thing for you...
I’d never even considered the possibility, but now that Michael had put it out there, I couldn’t deny that I’d seen desire in Leo’s piercing blue eyes tonight. He’d held back, as he always did with me, and I wondered why. If he was attracted to me, shouldn’t he at least be curious what it would be like to kiss me?
Finishing the wine, which sadly held no answers, I placed the glass in the dishwasher, ready to let the day go.
Chapter 8
Katia
