Page 21 of Love to Hate You

She snorted. “You don’t own a Big Chick Energy outfit.”

But this was her turf—literally. They were on the shoreline of the house that had been like a second home to Summer. He was the interloper and she was going to make sure he knew. She wasn’t about to let him win a single battle in this war.

“I’m not going to give that asshole even a moment’s thought.”

“Sounds like I’m in all of your thoughts.” The voice came from the doorway followed by an annoying ping of her phone.

Summer didn’t squeak or jump; she forced her body to remain unaffected. So he’d caught her talking about him while standing in her undies again. It didn’t mean she’d give him the satisfaction of letting him know that he got to her.

Her plan failed when she turned around and watched in horror as he walked over the threshold with a suitcase that probably cost more than her entire jewelry collection, and tossed it on the bottom bunk. Her bunk!

“Um, what are you doing?”

“Unpacking.” He looked at her undies. “Am I overdressed for the event?”

She snatched a soft throw off the rocking chair arm and wrapped it around her like a bath towel. “This is my room.”

“According to your mum, this is my room for the duration.” He unlatched one side of the suitcase, and before she could think she threw herself on it, covering it with her body. In the process she bonked her head on the top bunk.

“You hit your head,” he said helpfully.

“You have resting dick face.”

He thought about that and then smiled. “Most woman seem to like my face just fine.”

“Most woman are easily swayed by a snake charmer. I am not one of those women.”

“Good to know, since your blanket parted and is gifting me a view of your knickers. I think it’s a thong in Fuck Me Red, so you can see how I’m getting mixed signals.”

She jerked her hand behind her to close the opening and found it was, in fact, not open.Jerk!“How did you know the color?”

“God-given talent.”

“Then let me clear it up for you. We will not, now or ever, have sex.”

“Are you declaring your celibacy for me? I’m honored that I inspire such loyalty from you.”

“You are so infuriating.” She stood chin up as she stretched to her full five foot two. “I meant, with each other.”

“Too bad. I’m a five-star shag. I can get you testimonials if you need them.”

Gross.

“Women lie.” Although she didn’t think it was a lie. Wes had this ultra-masculine vibe about him. Big Dick Energy at its finest. Soft-looking lips that could also be punishing. Large, massive hands that could fully splay around her waist. And even through his pressed jeans it was clear that he was massive in other areas.

“Rethinking your stance, love?”

“Not in the slightest, crumpet. So, listen clearly. You’re not going to charm your way into my bed.”

He crossed his arms and rested a casual shoulder against the ladder that connected the upper and lower bunks. “So you admit you find me charming? Interesting.”

“‘Interesting’ isn’t the word that comes to mind.” Although what was happening in her belly? All the little flutters were interesting—and concerning. “More like infuriating, irritating, imbecile.”

“Imbecile? Do you mean imbecilic? As I don’t think a person can find someone imbecile.”

Summer caught herself stomping a foot and shouting, “God, I hate you.”

“You know what they say, the line between love and hate is a thin one.”

---