Page 49 of Worth the Risk

“Me, either.”

“We can see each other after work or in the morning, but not while they’re here. Text me,” he decreed. “In the evening, when you’re on break, and in the morning when you get up. Just to touch base.”

She thought that was sweet but didn’t dare say it. “I can do that.”

“Kiss me again, then I’ve really gotta go.”

Bella rose to a seated position while he sat and took her in his arms. The quick kiss went on for at least ten minutes. When he broke free and headed out the door, she heard him muttering about how agrown-ass man should have more control than a teenager.

Chapter 11

BELLA MESSAGED HIMduring her first break that night. Unsure what to say, she typed then erased at least four that started out with I miss you. But she didn’t want to come across as too clingy, or pathetic, it had only been ten hours after all. She settled on something teasing that got the point across.

Bella:Is it Monday yet?

Dan:Looking at the clock, I left you ten hours ago, but it seems like it should be. Miss you, babe.

He said what she was afraid to and didn’t sound clingy at all.

Bella:Miss you, too. How was your day with the kids?

Dan:Good. They wanted to go to the go-carts and batting cages, so we spent the afternoon there then ordered pizza for dinner and watched a movie.

Bella:Emily didn’t mind watching you hit?

He sent her a laughing emoji and shared that it was his daughter’s idea.

Bella:Good for her. I never was much of an athlete.

Dan:You have other strengths, beautiful. What about your day? Did you think about me?

Bella:Practically every minute.

Dan:Only practically? I’m crushed.

Bella:The only time I didn’t was here at Decadence. Trying to serve drinks in a mosh pit takes 100 percent concentration.

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