Page 5 of Her Nightshade

My smile faded. “I’m not doing anything with him. I’m not ready,” I explained.

Sloane sighed. “I know, Mom. I’m just messing with you.”

I relaxed a little. The thought of getting involved with anyone made me feel sick, but I couldn’t stop thinking about Charlie.This is not good.

“So, is he some kind of playboy?” I asked cautiously.

She laughed, clearly having fun teasing me. “I don’t know, but he’s always with someone. Better scoop him up now before someone else does.”

I rolled my eyes. “Alright, I’m heading to bed. I’m an old lady,” I joked, trying to end the conversation. “Goodnight, baby.”

“Buenas noches, mama,” she said cheerfully, then hung up.

I stared at my phone, re-reading his text over and over, torn between what I should say, if I should say anything at all, and what Ireallywanted to say, which was that I wanted him deep inside of me, fucking me all night long.No, stop it, Ana.

If we have a drink, I just need you to know that I’m not ready for anything serious. I’m just warning you now. Don’t fall in love with me or anything.

I hit send, and I hoped that I sounded playful like I intended.

Too late. I’ll send a car over for you.

Heat rushed to my face.No, don’t do this, Ana.

No, I’ll get myself there, but only if you promise to behave. What’s your address?

* * *

What the fuck am I doing? I must be going crazy. Perhaps not being touched by a man in over six months has turned me into a horny teenage girl. Dios mio, now I know how Sloane must’ve felt around Callan.

I stood in front of the floor-length mirror, eyeing my reflection in my casual jeans, sweater, and makeup-free face apart from a subtle red lip. It was such a stark contrast to how glamorous I looked at the gala. If Charlie wasn’t interested in me like this, then he wasn’t worth my time.

I grabbed a long pea coat off the hanger and shrugged it over my arm, stopping myself as I headed for the front door.This isn’t a big deal, right?I stood frozen in my living room, locked in a battle with myself.

I pulled my phone from my back pocket, staring at the screen, searching for the right words to tell Charlie I wasn’tcoming. Instead, I opened my contacts and dialed Miles. He answered instantly.

“I need a ride up to the Flatiron district. I’m meeting Charlie Ashford.” I hung up before he could question me.

Ten minutes later, Miles stopped in front of an apartment building on 23rd Street. The city was still buzzing around us and I sat for a moment as I collected myself. I planned on telling Charlie that this wasn’t a date, that I was only keeping my end of the deal. I would have a drink with him, and then I’d go home. Maybe. Or maybe I’d have sex with him, but I’d make it clear that I didn’t want anything more than that.

After a moment, Miles eyed me through the reflection of the rear view mirror, but he didn’t say a word.

“Don’t worry if I’m in there for a while. In fact, why don’t you head home? I’ll let you know when I need a ride back.”

Pretty presumptuous of me.But I saw the way Charlie stared at me. I bet if I told him to get on his knees and beg to fuck me, he would…

“You sure?” Miles asked, interrupting my thoughts.

“Yes,” I said as I opened the door and quickly shut it behind me.

Miles’ car didn’t move, like he was waiting for me to go inside. I smiled, grateful he was doing his job right.

I pulled my phone from my pocket and texted Charlie.

I’m here.

I didn’t have to wait long. A moment later, double doors swung open and out came Charlie. A smile already lit up his face, highlighting his dimpled cheeks, and his eyes sparkled like he had just won a prize. He wore a plain white T-shirt that showcased the numerous tattoos on his arms and biceps, with dark jeans and sneakers. Somehow, he was even more good-looking now than he was at the gala.

“Ana. I’m so glad you’re here,” he said warmly, reaching in to give me a hug.

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