Page 38 of Ignite

“I haven’t raced in weeks.”

She sighs and squeezes my hand just as my phone vibrates on the table. She hates that I street race. Even though I’m pretty damn good at it, it scares her. That’s why she gave me the money, she’s scared I’ll enter again.

“Yeah, but all it takes is a split second. I need you, Hallie. Now read that text before I explode with excitement. I have to get back to the gallery soon. I can’t live with the suspense.”

I chuckle and pick it up, a smile spreading across my face when I see his name flash on the screen.

Beastie

I would have preferred it if you checked my stitches rather than my brother. He didn’t call me a good boy. It’s just not the same.

I giggle just as another message comes in.

Beastie

I’m good, though. You did a good job on it. Thank you.

My heart flutters.

“What did he say?” Lily asks.

I read them out, and she grins.

“Cute.”

I nod. He kinda is.

Me

You’re welcome. And good boy for being brave having Dr. Quinn check them.

I watch the screen. He’s typing.

My stomach flips.

Beastie

You really are trouble, aren’t you?

Me

Maybe…

“You want a ride to work? I fancy going for a drive,” I ask Lily.

As soon as the words leave my mouth, Bertie bounds into the kitchen and plops at my feet.

“I think he wants to come.”

His tail wags like crazy and Lily jumps up, ruffling his head.

“Sounds good. Why don’t you swing by and see lover boy?” She wiggles her eyebrows.

“No! We’re friends. That’s it.”

And I have no clue where he actually lives.

She rolls her eyes and grabs my glass—thankfully I’ve only had a few mouthfuls.

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