Page 55 of Stroke of Fate

“Are you all right?” Levi studies my face, a frown forming between his brows.

I look away, afraid he’ll figure out what’s on my mind just by looking at me.

“Peachy.” I squeak—literally,squeak.

I couldn’t be more obvious if I tried.

“You sure? Because you seem kind of on edge. If you’re not feeling well because of the food, I can get you something?”

“No, I feel fine. It’s just I’m-” Horny? So turned on, I might combust?

Instead of answering, I bite my lower lip to stop the truth from slipping out.

I don’t know what’s gotten into me. I’ve never had this primal, aching need gnawing away at me. But then again, I’ve also never experienced this kind of chemistry with someone where their presence alone has my nipples straining against my lace bra.

Levi is still staring at me like I’ve suddenly grown two heads. And maybe I have. At least it would explain why I’m so out of sorts.

He steps closer until we’re nearly touching. “Is there anything I can do to help?”

I know he doesn’t mean it inthatway, but tell that to the throbbing pulse between my legs.

My expression must give something away because recognition dawns on him like the clouds parting for the sun. I see it in his knowing smile and the way his eyes light up.

Placing two fingers beneath my chin, he tilts my face up, forcing me to meet his gaze. “Tell me what you want me to do, Teddy Bear.”

Everything.

My mind is at war with itself. Alarm bells ping-pong inside my head, warning me what a terrible idea telling the truth would be.

“Nothing,” I say quickly.

We’re so close I could count each eyelash framing his beautiful eyes if I wanted.

Or you could lean in, kiss him, and drag him inside.

I squeeze my eyes shut to stop myself from acting on the thought. When Levi cups my jaw, I peel one eye open.

“Stop running from this, Bear.” His words brush over me like a whispered caress.

“I’m not running. I have to pee!” I blurt.

Stepping out of his hold, I spin on my heel and make a beeline for the safety of my apartment.

“Bye, Levi.” The last thing I see when I close the door is the cocky grin on his face.

The hoodie I forgot to give backtaunts me from the coffee table as I rush to my bedroom.

18 | LEVI

“Are you planning on telling me why you were so adamant about meeting for dinner?” I ask Mack once we’re seated at our table.

As expected for a Saturday night, Static is packed. This place and BurgerBliss are the go-to spots before people hit the strip of bars or one of the many off-campus parties.

I scan the area for Bear, but her familiar golden halo of hair is nowhere to be found. Since our date, or ‘business meeting’ as she insists on calling it, a few days ago, we’ve been texting back and forth. I asked her if she wanted to get together under the guise of discussing the project, but she said she had to work tonight.

Thankfully, Mack unknowingly came through by asking to meet up. Static was his idea, but I sure as shit didn’t mind knowing Bear would be here too.

“Yes, I need answers, Marino,” Mack says, and I shift in my seat to give him my full attention. “We kicked Emberwood’s ass, and I’m still waiting for you to tell me about the leggy blonde who was wearing your hoodie.”

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