Page 71 of Inked Heart
“Quinn, would you like to go on a date with me?”
I consider that.“You’re very specific.”
“I like clarity.”
“All right.”I turn toward her fully.“Quinn.”
“Yes?”
“Would you like to go on a date with me?”
She pretends to think about it.“Hm.”
“This feels dangerous.”I narrow my eyes playfully.
“Just a second.”
“Take your time.”I deadpan.
She smiles.“Okay.”
My chest warms slightly.“Good.”
“But I have a condition.”
“Of course you do.”I roll my eyes at her the way she often does with me.
“Next time I’m bringing cupcakes.”
“That’s not a condition.It’s a lifestyle.”
“I support this lifestyle.”She laughs again.
Something changes and the laughter fades.The moment stretches.And suddenly we’re both very aware of how close we are.Her eyes drop briefly to my mouth.Then back up and my heart starts beating a little faster.
“You’re thinking about it,” she says softly.
“About what?”
“You know.”
I swallow.“Maybe.”
Her voice drops slightly.“You can kiss me.”
The permission hits me like a small electric shock.“Are you sure?”
“Yes.”
“You just got out of a relationship.”
“That relationship ended before I left that house.”
“Still.”
She reaches out and lightly touches my hand.The contact sends a warm spark through my chest.
“Damien.”
