Page 22 of Pretty Little Scars

I should absolutely not say this.Shut it, Tuck. It’s none of your business.

“What’s that?”

No looking for dates unless you’re looking for me.

It’s on the tip of my tongue. I want to say itso bad, but it’s out of line.

She bites that lip again, and I can’t resist crossing to her.

“I’m going to touch you.”

She doesn’t hesitate before nodding, and I take that as a good sign as I reach up and tug her lip free from her teeth, then brush my thumb over her jawline, soaking in the softness of her skin.

“Just tell me whenever you want the tub, okay? Anytime.”

Her brows pull together, just for a heartbeat, and then she gives me a little nod.

“I appreciate it, but I’m sure it’s unnecessary.”

“So fucking argumentative,” I murmur as my thumb drifts up and over her soft as rose petals mouth. “So goddamn beautiful.”

Pulling myself out of her spell, I drop my hand and step back.

“I’ll see you Monday?” I ask her.

“Oh, this is a weekday job?” she returns, looking a little lost. “I assumed?—”

“I’m not going to ask you to work seven days a week. But I’d appreciate it if you helped during the branding weekend coming up.”

“Of course, I planned on it. Tucker, I can work tomorrow. I mean, I’m always on call for Dr. Fisher, but if he doesn’t need me, I can work here.”

“Take it off. I mean it.”

I need some time away from you so I don’t do something stupid like boost you up against the wall of the barn and fuck you senseless.

Boss of the year, right here.

“Well, I don’t have plans, so if you need me for anything, just let me know.”

“Appreciate it.”

“Wait, do you have my number?”

I pull my phone out of my pocket and pass it to her.

“Do you need to unlock it?” she asks.

“No. I don’t have anything to hide, Duchess. Plug yourself in there.”

She bites the tip of her tongue as she taps on the screen, and we both hear her phone vibrate in her pocket. Then, she passes the device back to me, and I set it on the counter.

“Now you can let me know if you need anything,” she says.

“Thanks. Same goes.”

She nods and lets out a long breath before she yawns hugely and then chuckles. “I think the bath made me sleepy.”

She’s fucking adorable.