Page 39 of Score on You

“You look sexier than a fantasy come true.”

He’s referring to that last text that had me burning up. A squirm shifts my hips, a sudden warmth gathered there. It’s a sensation I was unfamiliar with until meeting Ridge. I now understand the thrum located in my lower belly is desire.

The awareness reignites my blush. “Oh. That.”

He chuckles at my obvious shyness but doesn’t tease me. “Need a ride?”

“I have to work.”

“Yeah, I’ll drop you off.”

My lips part. “You want to drive me?”

“Just one of my many boyfriend duties.” Ridge studies my unmoving stance. “Unless that would make you uncomfortable.”

My legs quake and then I’m moving to accept his invitation. Maybe I should consider how quickly he’s integrating himself into my routine. But that’s my choice. I’m glad he’s often nearby. My newfound independence isn’t at risk. If I asked him to back off, I know he would. Immediately. There’s not a chance he’d refuse me.

He suddenly leaps into action. Before I can process his intentions, he’s jumped out and rushed to the passenger side. The door is swung open for me as I arrive.

“What service,” I gush.

“Only the best.” His arm hovers in midair as if he wants to provide additional assistance.

My skin tingles at the anticipation of contact. It’s easy to imagine the comfort a simple touch would deliver. If I falter long enough, he might hoist me inside. Would he? The air crackles as I delay stepping onto the running board.

As it turns out, Ridge is too much of a gentleman. He’s probably worried about my reaction. I try not to let my disappointment show when he respects my personal space.

“Thank you,” I murmur as I get buckled into the seat.

He hovers for a moment, like he’s fighting an internal battle. In the end, he tucks his chin and moves away. “You’re welcome.”

After shutting me in, he retraces his steps to the driver’s side. I occupy myself by inspecting the truck’s interior. The beige leather is supple and soft. There’s no litter on the rubber mats. It’s almost as if the vehicle is fresh off the lot. Other than the distinctive scent. A woodsy spice hangs in the small space and I pull in a deep breath. That’s unique to Ridge.

There’s also a faint smell of freshly brewed coffee. That’s when I notice two covered cups in the center console.

In a fluid motion, Ridge returns to his spot behind the wheel. “Ready to go?”

“Yep, but what’s this?” I point to the beverages.

He passes me the one with a pink lid. “A caffeine boost for you. Hazelnut with skim milk and whipped cream.”

“Thanks so much.” My fingers curl around the protective sleeve as I sniff the rich aroma. “Just the way I like it.”

“That’s what I was going for.” His gaze is riveted on me while I take a cautious sip. “And there’s something else.”

Before I can ask, he reaches into the backseat. I gape at the present he deposits on my lap. It’s a stunning display of shiny green and sparkly blue embellishments. Shock spreads through me at the unexpected sight.

He took the time to actually put the gift in decorative packaging rather than tossing an unwrapped object at me like an afterthought. Not that I’d make a fuss about presentation. The second option is common practice where I come from. As if I should be grateful that I crossed his mind at all regardless of the item. That’s how my mother would react to any offering from my father. It’s pathetic when I look back on those memories. She deserves so much better.

My watery gaze focuses on a curled ribbon. A loud crinkle warns me that I’m squeezing too hard. This pretty box just proves that Ridge spent additional effort on me. Like usual.

“Are you okay?” He asks after several minutes have passed and I’m still caught in a stupor.

My nod is disjointed. “This is just… really special.”

“Open it,” he urges.

I peel away the taped seal, trying not to rip anything. This will make a stunning background for a scrapbook page. My astonishment gets the best of me once the label is visible. The remaining paper is torn off without concern.

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