Page 13 of Perfect Together

Smiling, Nicole spun around and bumped into a hard male body. Her coffee sloshed over the lid, burning her hand. “Oh crap,” she muttered.

Ignoring the sting, she backed up, then glanced up and into the same hazel eyes that had starred in her dreams. Sam stood in front of her, freshly shaved, wearing a dark sport jacket, and looking hotter than any man had a right to.

“Oh God. I’m sorry. Did I get any coffee on you?” she asked, embarrassed.

“No. I’m fine. Are you okay?” He lifted her burned hand in his for inspection.

Shocks that had nothing to do with the hot liquid tingled along her skin. A quick look up told her he’d experienced the sensation too.

“I’m okay,” she murmured. At least her hand was. The rest of her was another story. “Where are you going all dressed up?” she asked.

“Work.”

She narrowed her gaze. “No uniform?”

“I got a promotion since I saw you last,” he explained. “Detectives get to ditch the uniform.”

“Congratulations!” she said, impressed and happy for him.

“Thanks. So how about you? Where are you headed next?” he asked.

“The Family Restaurant. I was going to brainstorm some things with Macy, but I couldn’t wait to get there to get some caffeine into me,” she explained.

He laughed. “I hear you. If I don’t stop here, I end up starting my day with the sludge at the station.”

“Good to know where I can find you,” she murmured.

They stared at each other for a few moments, the air between them crackling with intensity.

“I’ve been thinking about you,” he admitted.

Her heart skipped a beat at that. “Same here.”

“Are you free Friday night? We could go out to dinner.”

She sighed. “I’m going to the movies with Macy.” She paused before plowing ahead. “But Saturday night, Macy talked me into going to the Women’s Heart Health fundraiser. Will you be there?” If she couldn’t go on an official date with him this weekend, at least they could spend time together.

His brows drew close, and he hesitated, his attitude going from outgoing and inviting to downright uncomfortable. “Never mind. I—”

“Listen, I—” They spoke at the same time.

His phone rang and he immediately glanced at the screen.

“Work call,” he explained, shooting her a regretful look. He spoke to the person on the other end and met her gaze as he disconnected. “I have to go now, but I—” He shook his head. “No time,” he muttered.

She nodded, understanding the urgency. She’d see him Saturday night, or not.

With a last lingering glance, he headed for the door.

She watched him go, her eyes devouring him from behind. The man was built in a way that spoke of working out to maintain his physique but not in a way that screamed gym god. No, he was a fine specimen all on his own.

She wished he’d had a chance to say whatever was on his mind about the fundraiser, but she wouldn’t let herself worry about it. He had asked her out first, which indicated interest. And if he really wanted to go out with her, he knew where to find her. It was a small town, after all.

She might not be looking for a serious relationship right now, but she’d be crazy to deny she wanted something with this man.

Just what remained to be seen.

Chapter Three

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