Page 50 of The Invite
“Yes, I do,” I answer truthfully. “You’re my first friend here.”
“I’m glad to hear it.” Ace smiles charmingly. “To new friendships.”
“New friendships.”
CHAPTER – 14
Nessa
Ace surprises me by ordering from an Italian place and as he bragged, I do end up licking my fingers clean after finishing my meal. It was the most delicious white pasta I’ve ever had in my life.
Now, we’re both in my kitchen and doing the dishes together. I told him not to but he insisted like a true gentleman. I dry the items one by one while he washes them in the sink. I’ve caught myself admiring his forearms one too many times. Thank God he hasn’t noticed.
As the evening comes to an end, I become jittery.
I haven’t forgotten that Augustus was lurking outside my house when Ace arrived. I keep wondering if he’s still outside. Watching us through his stalking binoculars, wearing his black clothes, and plotting how to ruin the rest of my night.
As soon as Ace leaves, I’m locking my doors and wedging a chair under the knob for good measure. I’m also sleeping with a knife under my pillow.
While I’m protected in the confinements of my house after changing the locks, I cannot spend the rest of my life inside though.
What am I going to do if he ambushes me outside of work? I have zero self defense skills. For hell’s sake, I’m not even a fast runner. Pepper spray and a knife will protect me for only so far. Especially considering how much knives terrify me.
A sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach grows that Augustus is one scary opponent. Besting him won’t be so easy.
“How are you going to school?”
Ace’s voice jolts me out of my musings. “I took the bus and will continue until my car gets shipped here.”
Turning off the tap, he wipes his hands with the towel I provided and leans against the counter. “Your house is on my way, I can give you a ride until your car comes.”
“That’s sweet of you but I can’t ask you to do that, Ace.” I let him down gently. “Besides, it’s only a few days.”
“Didn’t you say I’m your friend?” he counters, raising one brow. “Let me help you, Nessa.”
“But—”
“I’m picking you uptomorrow,” he announces before I can finish his thought. His striking blue eyes become sharper as he gives me a stern look. “And I’m not taking no for an answer.”
“Okay,” I sigh, his tone suggesting he won’t budge. “Thank you.”
“You’ve thanked me enough,” he points out teasingly. “Next time, just accept my help. Okay?”
“Fine.” I nod, making his smile grow. “Are you this bossy to your students too?”
“Only when they’re being stubborn.”
I laugh and his eyes drop to my lips for a lingering breath. Clearing my throat, I take a step back after noting how close we’re standing. As much as I enjoyed spending time with him, I don’t want to give him thewrong impression.
He must realize the intimacy of our position too, because he straightens and murmurs, “I should go. It’s getting late.”
A panic-like feeling swirls in my belly at the thought of being alone.
Obviously, I can’t ask him to spend the night nor can I tell him the truth about Augustus stalking me.
Relax, Nessa. Augustus can’t break in.
I’m safe and protected,I remind myself.
