Page 70 of The Bitter Rival

“Was that why Jeff was hugging you earlier?”

“You saw that?” No wonder that day was such a shit show.

“Yeah. Sorry. That whole day sucked.”

“Well, don’t do that anymore. I wanted to help. I’ll have you know that whole amateur night was your fault.”

Recognition is evident in his features. “I’m sorry, Bella.”

“Don’t be. I really enjoyed it. I think I might-”

“Not ever going to happen. You hear me.”

Waving at my possessive man, I thank the heavens above that Kat had a plan.

Knock, Knock.

I walk toward the front door, a little pep in my step. Swinging the door open, I greet my dinner guest. “Well, hello. Come on in.”

Sebastian enters the house, dressed in dark jeans and a Henley. As handsome as he is dressed in suits or scrubs, this version might be my favorite. I doubt there have been many women who’ve seen him this way from what he’s described. I rather enjoy feeling uniquely his.

“These are for you,” he says, pulling a small bouquet of sunflowers from behind him.

“Bas, they’re beautiful.” I’m speechless. I’m still bowled over that he wanted to see me again so soon, much less be willing to enjoy leftovers at my home with my son. This is more than I could’ve hoped for with this guarded man.

I notice he looks around briefly before coming closer and pulling me into his side. “I missed you today.”

“I’ve barely been gone,” I tease.

“I’m going to fuck this up. You know that, right?”

“Well, let’s just enjoy it until you do,” I say, poking him in the stomach.

“Austin, come and say hi,” I yell as I try to reach over the refrigerator for a vase. I don’t know why I insist on keeping them here. I can never reach them. Out of the corner of my eye, I see Sebastian start in my direction at the same time Austin comes into view.

Sebastian stops walking, almost looking concerned about how to interact with Austin. Austin’s on autopilot, however, heading in my direction. He reaches up easily into the cabinet and pulls out the vase we use regularly.

“Thanks,” I say, rubbing his arm. “Say hi to Sebastian, please. He’s joining us for dinner.”

“Hi,” Austin directs to Bas.

“Hi,” Bas returns. Boy, this should be some stimulating dinner conversation.

“What’re we having for dinner?” Austin asks.

“Leftover Luigi’s spaghetti.”

“With lots of cheese?”

“Yes, Austin. Plenty of cheese.”

“Can I go now?”

“Sure, honey.”

Turning to Sebastian, I see he has a blank expression. From what I’ve gathered about his history with women, this must be a little overwhelming for him right now. “You okay?”

“Yeah, why?”

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