Page 49 of Trusting the Fall

“Let me guess. It would be quicker to go with tiles?” I ask.

I tilt my head with an unamused raise of my eyebrow as he gives me a pacifying smile.

“We could have the floorboards ripped and tiles laid and still be back on track since this week was meant to be tools down to let the stain cure anyway.” He matches my stance, but where my body deflates with resignation, he stands taller in victory.

He knows this is the better option. He knows that’s the way I’m going to go.

Fuck, I hate being wrong.

I grit my teeth and avoid his eyes.

“Fine,” I say. “Do the damn tiles. I can always change them later on. Let’s just try to stick to the opening date that was planned.”

“As you wish,” he says and drops his arms, letting one brush against mine as he passes me, but not before he whispers in my ear, “You know how I love to please you, Bombshell.”

I turn my head and make sure Jeremy isn’t still hanging around.

“Don’t call me that!”

“Why?” He shrugs, and his face shows nothing but delight. “Isn’t that what you kept telling me your name was?”

“Yeah, and hindsight’s a bitch.”

“Poor baby. I bet I can make you feel better.”

My core clenches at the suggestion.

He could totally make it all better. Goosebumps rise on my skin as we continue to stand off. Eyes focused on each other. Those neon blues bore into me. The longer he looks at me, the deeper I feel it. His presence, the effect of his attention.

Why is he the only person that makes me feel seen when he looks at me?

Why does it make my heart beat hard and steady like a drum, and at the same time rapid and light like a hummingbird?

It’s been like that since the first night. The way he throws off my balance challenges everything I’ve known and felt before.

I feel like I’m at the top of a podium, waiting to jump into the unknown. It’s scary and exciting, and I’m not even sure if I want to do it. Leif’s face is waiting at the bottom, his arms open wide. My body wants to fall, but my heart doesn’t trust it.

I don’t trust myself right now.

“I don’t remember orgasms being a part of the contract.”

“I like to take care of my clients.” He winks, and then I feel sick. He must see it on my face. Whatever I fail at hiding on the inside. “Wait, Claire, I didn’t mean it like that.”

I turn, trying to hurry out the front door, but I’m stopped by a hand on my elbow. I’m so embarrassed right now. Fuck, this guy makes me feel things I’m not used to, and in no way prepared for.

“Claire,” Leif whispers. “Baby, I didn’t mean it like that. I’ve never slept with a client before. This is new for me, too.”

His hand stays on my arm, his thumb rubbing soothing strokes along the skin there. Why the fuck do I care? Why am I freaking out from his words right now?

I shrug out of his hold. “I’m just mad about the floors,” I quickly lie.

“Don’t worry about the salon. I’ll get it fixed, okay?”

I can’t say anything. All I do is nod and rush through the open door leading back outside because nothing feels okay right now. My stomach is gurgling with uncertainty and doubt.

I’m almost to my car when my phone chimes from my back pocket. I’ve got a missed call and text from Lex.

LEX: I am so sorry, babe! My brother called and then the big boss came in. Call me!