Page 90 of Single-Minded
“Really, it has to stay secret because of his kids,” I said.
“Oh, that’s interesting,” Chloe said knowingly. “We won’t tell anyone you slept with him.”
Sounds of approval arose from the two stylists, making me smile harder.
“Sleeping. And not sleeping,” I clarified.
“I knew it,” Chloe said. “You’ve been quieter lately.”
“I have been busy building a coffee shop,” I pointed out.
“With your hot builder sex toy.”
“Don’t objectify him like that,” I teasingly scolded.
“He’s more than just a handsome face?” Willow asked.
Everyone went quiet as I got caught up in thinking about the question.
“He’s a lot more than just a handsome face.” I said it in all seriousness, trying to sort through my thoughts. My…feelings. “It was supposed to be a one-time thing.”
“It’s more?” Willow asked, her tone telling me she understood.
I nodded. “He’s… Oh, God. I just like him. A lot. He’s just…good.”
All three of them howled and made suggestive comments, which made me laugh.
“Absolutely that, but also he’s a good human. A kind person. A badass on the outside and a marshmallow when it comes to his girls. But he’s a wonderful father, not a pushover.”
I told them about Nova’s injury and how West had been so in control even though I could tell by looking at him he was worried to his core.
“Wait,” Chloe said, “he and his daughters were at your house on a social visit?”
“To see the kittens,” I explained, because how could I adopt three kittens and not invite those little girls over?
“And go kayaking,” Emerson added.
“They were so taken by my colorful kayaks. I promised them we’d take them out.” I grinned. “They decided my tie-dye ones are superior to Jagger’s ‘ugly orange ones’ at the marina.”
“There are definite feelings involved here,” Emerson said.
“And not just about boat colors,” Chloe added.
“I was just thinking this doesn’t sound like your average hookup guy,” Willow said.
I felt Chloe staring at me through the mirror again. I dared to meet her gaze. She narrowed her eyes, assessing. Making me squirm.
“What?” I said.
“I’ve never seen you like this. You’re, like…bubbly.”
“Bubbly?” I asked in disbelief.
She tilted her head, and Emerson gently guided her back to where she needed her.
“Sorry,” Chloe said to Emerson. Then she came back to me. “Is this getting serious, Presley?”
Serious. What did that mean, exactly? I’d never had a serious relationship before, but… “I don’t know. We started out as a fling.”
