Page 74 of Tempt Me

Bella

This time, when I pull into the parking space near Twisted Ink, it’s a different feeling. I no longer fear that Dominic will never notice me. I know he notices me and no one else. And I’m not jealous of his ‘happily married’ boss.

Dominic is the perfect boyfriend. He takes me out to dinner. Holds my hand. Kisses me in public. And at night? The man blows my mind. I didn’t intend to move in with him, but who wants to traipse back home in the middle of the night when they’re depleted of energy? Not I. Especially with soaked thighs? It’s easier to sleep together, and it makes waking up a lot more fun.

And my brothers? We just pretend I don’t live there when they ask.

I turn off the ignition and hop out of my car. The sun is out, but the temperature remains mild. Fall is my favorite time of year. The weather vacillates between warm and crisp, and the trees are starting to change, making the landscape gorgeous.

When I step up to the etched glass door, it opens and a large man with tattoo-covered arms walks out and nods. “Hello, darlin’.” His voice is deep and rattles my nether region.

Darlin’? I bite back a giggle. “Hello.” My eyes continue to rake over the guy. He’s huge. Big, muscular, and reeks of big dick energy mixed with a gentle giant vibe.

He smiles as he shuts the door with a snap. “You must be Dom’s girl.”

“Yes, I am.” I smile in return.

“Getting some work done?”

“Yes. Dominic is doing some finishing touches on a tattoo he did for me.”

“I used to do work here before I got married.” He shoves out his hand and engulfs mine. “My name’s Maverick.” He releases my hand after a perfunctory shake. “Your boyfriend is a talented artist. What piece did he do on you? Was it your first one?”

“He did some wildflowers, and yes, it was my first one. He said he forgot to add something to it, but I think it’s perfect.”

“Ah….” Maverick’s eyes twinkle as he steps aside to let another customer file out of the tattoo shop. “I bet he makes it his best piece of artwork to date.”

“Were you getting some work done?”

“Yes. Rob worked on a tattoo I had designed a year ago for my wife and kids. He was adding our last child’s initials.”

“Congratulations.”

There’s nothing flirty about his comments or our conversation. It’s that weird tattoo community connection that happens whenever someone recognizes a kindred spirit.

Until a few weeks ago, I didn’t think I’d ever be part of that tribe, but as soon as Dominic finishes this one, I want another design. I already have it planned out–a single wildflower likeDominic has with a serpent around it. I want a piece of him on me like he has of me.

Maverick crosses his arms over his chest. “Rissa has been trying to get Dom to enter a contest to get his work included in a magazine. The top designer gets a full article spread about their work and potentially showcased in an art exhibit. He keeps blowing her off, saying he’s not that good. He’s that good. You should try to sway him.”

“I’m not sure I can sway him.”

He lifts his eyebrows. “Any man’s woman can sway him to do any number of things. And the way he talks about you, I think you could get him to do just about anything with the crook of a finger.”

Heat covers my face as happiness swells up inside of me. The fact he talks about me with that much emotion makes my knees weak. And to think, I thought he couldn’t stand me a few weeks ago.

“Thank you. I’m going to take that as a compliment.”

“You should. Ember can get me to go to a bookstore with one pouty bottom lip. Even though I know she’ll consider it a job, and we’ll be there all day. That’s why I built a library for her in our house. But no….” He shudders. “She must go to a bookstore to buy more books.”

“You’re too funny.” I laugh at the mixture of adoration and horror on his face. Here’s a man who worships his wife.

“Not that I don’t read. I do, but again, only to please my wife.”

The door swings open. “Dude,” Dominic barks. “What’re you doing?”

Maverick raises his hands in mock fear. “I’m only talking to your lady, and I’ve been a perfect gentleman. Besides, you don’t need to worry about her. I can tell that she’s not the type to cheat.”

“I know that.” Dominic glares at Maverick and stalks between us. “But that doesn’t mean I want her hanging out with you.” He waves his hand toward Maverick. “You’re a billionaire, and you look like that. I can’t compete with….”

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