Page 79 of Holly versus Mr. Ivy
Rhett staring at me that much? I’d melt into a puddle from the intense heat of his gaze. “Unfortunately, I don’t have enough vacation time to explore all seven continents. I appreciate your dedication to the cause, though.”
“Now I feel cheated.” He frowned.
“Rhett?”
“Yes?”
A second wave of heat burned my neck and chest. “You can have as many assessments of my backside as you want. Just be discreet when we’re around other people.”
Rhett’s smile grew into a satisfied grin. “And when we’re alone?”
How could it be so hot when the temperature outside was hovering around freezing? “Have at it.”
Rhett’s chuckle rumbled throughout the cab of his truck. “Oh, sweetheart, I plan to.”
If Rhett was allowed a free pass on my rear, you’d better believe I would be returning the favor.
“Hey, Noah,” I said, stepping up to the window of his food truck. “Judging by the long wait we had, I’d say you’ve had a pleasantly busy morning?”
My cousin blew out a breath that sent his dark brown hair fluttering off his forehead before settling back into the messy do that took him forever to achieve even though it was supposed to look like he just rolled out of bed.
“Crazy busy, but that means more money for my store.” He rubbed his thumb across the pads of his fingers, signaling for moolah. “What are you two doing here?”
Rhett stepped closer to me, our shoulders touching. “Out exploring the vendors at the festival before we head to work.”
Noah pointed to the street to our right. “The lotion your mom likes is down that way.”
It was a thoughtful gesture for him to scope the vendor out for Mom. “Thanks,” I said. “Where’s Joy? I was hoping to meet her.”
Red crept up Noah’s neck. “She’s not here. Anyway, what can I get you?”
Hmm. Someone was being a little fishy. If there wasn’t a long line behind us, I’d pry for more information. Lucky for Noah, his customers saved him an interrogation. Rhett and I each ordered a donut.
My wrapped hands prevented me from taking out my wallet. “My card is in my coat pocket if you want to grab it.”
“This is on me,” Rhett said, pulling out his card.
“Correction.” Noah grinned. “Your order is on me.”
“Nah, man,” Rhett protested. “I’d love to support your business.”
“You getting Hols out of the house is payment enough,” Noah said.
I put the backs of my hands on my hips. “What’s that supposed to mean?”
To me, Noah said, “That you deserve to have a little fun.” To Rhett, he said, “Seriously, man, thanks for putting up with Holly and getting her to relax.”
“Forputting upwith me?” I asked, hurt. “It’s not like you had to threaten the man.”
Noah winked. “Just bribe him with free donuts.”
I turned my disbelieving gaze on Rhett. “Pay him. Noah doesn’t deserve to think he’s done us any favors today.”
Rhett, fighting a smile, silently passed his card to Noah. Rhett tapped a few buttons on the checkout screen, then pocketed his wallet.
“Bye, jerk,” I bit out to Noah.
He grinned. “See ya, Hols.”
