Page 12 of Ace of Spades

Maybe this girl is exactly what the garage needs. Fresh eyes. Bold spirit.

Then she bends down to pick something up off the ground and I’m reminded of why this willnotwork. I turn to the side so that I don’t stare. I know other men wouldn’t be able to help themselves.

But I refuse to be like those assholes that felt so entitled to her.

"Look, if you need a job. I know almost every business owner here on the island. I’m sure I can ask around," I offer.

“No need, Mr. Steele. I already told you, I can take care of myself. Thanks though.”

She resumes her perusal of the junkyard I'm now realizing we've created over the years.

"Who are you?” I say, the question almost impulsive.

"Hmm… look who's the curious one now?" She raises a brow.

"I like to know who and what I'm dealing with." I don't move from my spot as she continues running her hand over the old metal tossed about.

"Ah, so you'redealingwith me now?"

"I didn't mean it like that."

She chuckles.

"Let's just say I'm someone who appreciates your workmanship."

"So you ride?"

"A little." She motions over her outfit. "Can't you tell?"

I shrug. "It's Halloween. You can pretend to be whatever you want."

"Like you? Wearing an eye patch?”

“It’s an island thing,” I grumble. “Besides I took it off.”

“Huh. Well, there's no pretending. This is me,” she motions to herself. “Take it or leave it, captain."

Take it.My stupid brain tells me against my better judgement. My only answer is a gruff clearing of my throat.

She turns to me just standing there watching her and gives me a look like she knows exactly what's going through my head.

And I feel like a total dumbass for staring. The way she just called me captain had more than my head stirring.

"I better get back inside—"

"Or should I call youAce?"

The way she says my old Army nickname—it's soft. Like a caress. A secret. And she has no business saying it that way.

She has evenlessbusiness knowing it.

My jaw tightens.

"I'm sorry," I say, cocking my head, giving her a once-over. "Whoare you?"

She smirks, like she's been waiting for me to ask her. As if this whole interaction is a game that she already knows she's winning.

But before she can answer, the side door slams open and Theo pokes his head out. The music coming from inside floods the empty outdoor space. It’s just me and the woman I know nothing about out here.

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