Page 29 of Sweetest Temptation
“Well, thank you for the help, Mr. Carter. You survived today. I’m impressed.”
“Are you trying to get rid of me already?”
“I’m trying to close up. I’m tired, and my feet are killing me in these heels.”
“Mm. Guess I’ll hang around until you’re done. Gotta make sure you get to your car safely.”
Her lips parted like she wanted to argue, but instead she sighed, shaking her head with a reluctant smile. “Fine. You can wait… But no more flirting.”
I grinned, sliding my hands into my pockets. “No promises.”
Then my eyes drifted toward the huge floral arrangement sitting at the back of the counter. The blooms were massive and vibrant in a riot of pinks, reds, and creams. The small envelope was still attached with its seal intact. That meant she hadn’t opened it yet, and she didn’t know I was the one who sent them.
“Nice flowers,” I said casually, nodding toward them.
Zanova glanced over, then laughed softly. “Oh, yeah. They are beautiful. Someone sent them. I was so busy… I forgot to read the card to see who they’re from.”
She walked over and plucked the envelope, breaking the seal. I watched in silence as she unfolded the small note and began reading. Her eyes widened slightly, then softened. A smile tugged at her lips, subtle but unmistakable.
I don’t know what made me buy her flowers. Part of me still didn’t understand why I cared so much, but seeing her like this was enough. All the teasing, all the tension, and every stupid, reckless thing I did to get under her skin was worth it now that I had a front-row seat to her smile.
For all your hard work and dedication to your craft. If no one told you today, I am proud of you.
Signed, Mr. Carter.
“You sent me these? You didn’t have to. Thank you.”
“Glad you like them. And there are no thanks needed, love. You deserve so much more.”
“Just don’t think this means we are friends.” She smirked.
“Wouldn’t think of it…”
She tucked the card into her apron pocket, shaking her head as if trying to hide her smile. She turned and made her way to the back as I watched in a mix of desire and admiration. Once Zanova finished shutting down the bakery and told me she was ready, we walked out together. She locked up and dropped her keys into her purse as we walked to her car. The street was quiet, and the air was thick with that lingering energy between us.
“You didn’t have to stay. But thanks for waiting,” she said as we made slow steps to her ride. She smiled up at me before continuing. “I hate to admit this, but I enjoyed your company, Samir.”
“I know you did.”
“See… You had to ruin the moment. You can go now.”
“Not yet.” Before she could open the door, I stepped in, hand braced on the car behind her, pinning her gently in place.
Her breath hitched, eyes darting up to meet mine. “Samir?—”
“Relax, baby,” I said, leaning in. My lips brushed her cheek as her scent rushed up my nose, sending a signal to my dick.
She exhaled, her voice barely above a whisper. “Your trouble, you know that, Mr. Carter?”
I grinned, stepping back. “Yeah, but you like it, Ms. Pierce.”
“Boy, bye!” She chuckled as I did the same. “Move out the way so I can leave. Have a good rest of your evening.”
She slipped into the driver’s seat, closing the door a little too hard, like she was trying to shut me out along with everything she was feeling.
“Drive safe, Ms. Pierce.” I smirked and tapped the roof lightly.
She looked at me with eyes narrowed and curved lips, before shaking her head and positioning herself to pull off. As she did so, I caught the smallest glance in her rearview mirror. Our eyes met for a split second; long enough to know that whatever wasbuilding between us, neither one of us was ready to walk away from it.
