Page 88 of Taken By the Pack

“Just got out of a meeting with my boss,” he says, voice low and smooth. “If you want company, I can pick you up. We can hang out.”

I bite my lip, glancing around the waiting room. “Tempting, but I need to check in at the flower shop.”

“Even better,” he says easily. “I’ll pick you up from Dr. Avery’s.”

There’s no point arguing. He’s already decided. And truthfully? I want to see him.

“All right,” I say.

Fifteen minutes later, he pulls up to the curb. The moment I step out, he’s there, looking way too good in his fitted black shirt and rolled-up sleeves.

He smells expensive, all fresh cologne and something inherentlyhim.

“Hey,” I start, but before I can say more, he tugs me in, arms wrapping around my waist, pulling me flush against him.

His mouth crashes onto mine, heat and hunger in the way he kisses me, like he’s been starving.

I melt instantly, hands fisting in his shirt. His grip tightens, and Idefinitelydon’t miss the way his hard length presses against my stomach.

He breaks the kiss just enough to mutter against my lips, “How the hell am I supposed to survive four fucking weeks?”

I laugh breathlessly. “You’ll live.”

“Doubt it.” He kisses me again, deeper this time, like he’s trying to prove a point.

I almost forget that we’re standing outside. Almost.

I shove lightly at his chest, grinning. “Come on. Let’s go before I lose my resolve.”

He groans but releases me. “This is actual torture.”

I roll my eyes, climbing into his car.

* * *

Haven Nook smellslike fresh blooms and damp earth. Sunlight filters through the large front windows, catching the soft pastels of the roses and lilies on display.

Ash looks around, hands in his pockets. “All right, boss. Where do you need me?”

I smirk. “Think you can handle changing the water?”

His brows lift. “I think I’ll manage.”

I hand him a bucket. “Then get to work.”

He rolls his eyes but takes it. I start gathering the bouquets with wilting petals, tossing out the ones that won’t last another day.

“You ever think about selling these instead of throwing them out?” Ash asks.

I glance over. “What do you mean?”

“Instead of wasting them, you could do a discount bin. Maybe set up a stand at the farmers’ market on weekends.”

I blink. “Huh. Never thought about it.”

He smirks. “That’s why I’m here. Business genius and all.”

I snort. “Ash, flowers aren’t exactly your expertise.”

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