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That’s what I wanted him to say. And yet, hearing it physically hurts.
I rest my hands on his chest, feeling his heart beating almost as fast as mine. “Thank you.”
He lowers his forehead to mine. “Don’t thank me.”
“Why not?”
“Because I really want to kiss you again.”
Our noses brush, and I close my eyes. It’s like we’re breathing the same breath. “But you won’t.”
“No. I won’t.” And then his touch is gone. When I open my eyes, he’s halfway across the room. “We should go,” he says, all businesslike and unaffected.
I swallow. “Okay.”
He turns and leaves the room without another glance at me. I knew it. Called it back during our first night together. He will ruin me, and I’m not sure if I can stop it or if I want to.
Chapter Twenty-Four
We leave the house and head to meet Hunter’s mother for a late brunch. Pristine green acres of land surround us as we cruise down the road that leads to the imposing swanky building ahead. I’ve never been to a country club.
“Are you a member?” I ask as we approach the clubhouse’s valet.
“I am, but I don’t get out here very often.”
“Is Daryl a member, too?”
“No, but his father is.”
“So it’s diverse, then?”
He pulls up to the valet. “Not as much as it could be. Why do you ask? Thinking about applying for membership?”
I don’t have to wonder if he’s kidding. The humor in his voice gives it away. “Hilarious, but no. You know this is not my scene.”
“It’s not mine either.”
“So why are you a member?”
He shrugs. “For the connections. And I grew up here.”
“Makes sense.”
“You applying for membership isn’t hilarious, by the way.”
A valet in his late teens approaches Hunter’s window and gives Hunter a ticket.
“This is your world, not mine.”
“It could be yours. If you want it.”
“Why? Because I’m carrying a Demalio?”
“Well, yes.” Hunter unbuckles his seat belt and leans over to me. “In case you didn’t know, we’re kind of a big deal in this town.”
I roll my eyes. “You’re so cocky.”
Hunter smiles, flashing those brilliant white teeth. “You like it.”
