Page 6 of A Tempting Seduction

Ruby raised one perfectly shaped eyebrow, her lips twitching with suppressed laughter. “A concussion?”

“Definitely. I'm seeing stars.”

“Ford Larson.” She crossed her arms, which did amazing things for her already impressive cleavage. “You fell on your rear.”

The words hit me like a lightning bolt. Carrie's voice echoed in my memory from our last phone call: “When the right woman comes along, she'll knock you flat on your rear and you won't know what hit you.”

Well, I'd definitely been knocked on my rear. And I definitely didn't know what had hit me, unless you counted a tiny dog and the most beautiful woman I'd ever laid eyes on.

“Would you give me your number?” The words tumbled out before I could stop them.

Ruby's smile disappeared and she gave me a confused, almost hurt look. “Why would you want my number?”

I grinned slowly. “I was thinking about calling you and asking you out on a date.”

This time her expression shuttered. “I don’t date.”

“Right. Of course. I just thought⁠—”

“I should get back to work.” She moved toward the counter with quick, efficient steps that screamed retreat.

I sat up straighter, my pride stinging worse than my tailbone. “Could I at least get a cup of coffee? Since I'm already here and all.”

Ruby paused, glancing back with an expression I couldn't read. “What kind?”

“Surprise me.”

She studied my face for a long moment, then nodded once. “Coming right up.”

I watched her work behind the counter as Jordan moved to the till. Ruby’s movements were graceful as she pulled shots and steamed milk. Whatever she was creating involved multiple syrups and a generous dollop of whipped cream topped with what looked like cinnamon and brown sugar.

When she brought it over, the smell alone made my mouth water. Rich coffee mingled with vanilla, caramel, and something that reminded me of my grandmother's kitchen during the holidays.

“What is it?” I asked, accepting the oversized to-go cup.

“Trade secret.” Ruby's smile was back, but more guarded than before. “Let me know what you think.”

I took a sip and nearly groaned with pleasure. The coffee was perfect, complex and smooth with layers of flavor that hit different notes on my tongue. It was like drinking liquid comfort food.

“Goodness, Mary, and Joseph,” I breathed. “This is incredible.”

Ruby's cheeks flushed pink with pleasure at the compliment. “I'm glad you like it.”

“Like it? I'm pretty sure I want to marry it.” I took another sip, savoring the warmth that spread through my chest. “What do you call this masterpiece?”

“I don't know yet. I was just experimenting.”

“Well, whatever you decide to name it, put it on the menu. You'll make a fortune.”

“I'll think about it.” Ruby glanced toward the counter where Jordan was struggling with what sounded like a dying espresso machine. “I really do need to get back.”

“Of course.” I stood up, testing my balance. Everything worked fine, though my ego still felt a little bruised by her rejection. “Thanks for the coffee.”

“Thanks for the entertainment,” Ruby said with a grin that made my pulse skip. “Try not to get attacked by any more dogs on your way out.”

I headed toward the door, pausing to wave at Renzo, who was watching the whole exchange with obvious amusement. The coffee warmed my hands through thick paper cup, and I knew without a doubt I'd be back tomorrow morning.

Ruby Miller might not date, but she made coffee like an angel and had a smile that could light up a room. Something told me that whatever wall she'd built around herself, it wasn't unbreachable.