Page 157 of Burn Like An Angel

“No.”

“Ever?”

“Do I look like much of a dater, Ripley? Not exactly the relationship type.”

“You never… ah, romanced your toys before?”

“I’m sure they didn’t need romancing after being referred to as toys,” Lennox butts into our conversation. “Who wouldn’t fall for that?”

“Watch it, swimming pool. You aren’t winning awards for romance either.”

He falls silent, glowering at Raine when he starts laughing. I tune them out, focused on Xander.

“I never wanted more than a brief physical connection before,” he explains slowly. “I didn’t care about their feelings or wellbeing. This is all new for me.”

“Well, I’m glad to be your first date.”

Candlelight flickers in his navy irises, highlighting the varied tones of blue melting into a dark, inviting hue. Xander lifts a hand to run his fingers over my chin.

“Me too.”

The sounds of the movie play in the background. Lennox is explaining it to Raine, describing the dystopian future where robots have taken over and all but eradicated the human race. The pair are laughing together like idiots.

“So you’re a sci-fi fan?”

“Does that surprise you?” Xander is still watching me.

“It seems fitting. You love technology.”

“I like computers. That’s all.”

“Right. I heard you’ve been making friends with Theo at HQ.”

“He showed me his set-up in the intelligence department.” His pitch lightens, seeming to radiate excitement. “You wouldn’t believe the tech they have in there. Incredible.”

He’s so touchy about admitting he enjoys something, but the clear passion in his voice reveals the truth.

“Did he let you touch his computer?” I tease.

“Not yet. I’ll convince him, though.” He looks away, deep in thought. “Or offer to break his skull.”

“You can’t manipulate everyone with threats of death or violence. I’m happy you’re excited, but we should perhaps talk about managing these new feelings.”

“What’s to manage?” Xander sniffs. “I’ll simply befriend the flannel-wearing nerd and convince him to let me use his tech. That or I’ll find a new home for my pocketknife in his gut.”

I stifle the urge to facepalm.

Xander is a work in progress.

CHAPTER 24

RIPLEY

HIGHER – CROIXX

I waketo weak morning light, far too warm and comfortable to move. Credits roll in the background, accompanying the sound of heavy breathing and snores. I must’ve dropped off after the fourth movie.

Something hard and wiry is sprawled out beneath me. I’ve turned Xander into a human mattress, my face tucked into the crook of his neck, legs spread either side of his waist and chests flush together.

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