Total pages in book: 55
Estimated words: 54520 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 273(@200wpm)___ 218(@250wpm)___ 182(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 54520 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 273(@200wpm)___ 218(@250wpm)___ 182(@300wpm)
Just like that, I’m snapped out of the hypnotic trance, the unwelcome heat evaporating in an instant, as I’m reminded of exactly who this man is.
He leans back just enough to flash me that infuriating smirk. “Play your cards right, and maybe I’ll save a dance for you too.”
My eyes narrow into tiny slits, the urge to slap the cockiness off his stupid face surging through me.
“You wish, Slimer,” I sneer. “I wouldn’t dance with you if you were the last man on earth.”
That cutting response only seems to amuse him more. “Keep telling yourself that, sweetheart.”
His knowing gaze penetrates mine, peeling back every layer I’ve spent years building.
I decide it’s time to make my exit, but not without getting the last word in.
My lips part, ready to unleash the final blow when the sound of my name stops me cold.
“Harlow?”
I tense at the all-too-familiar voice behind me, the soft feminine tone weighing down every limb of my body.
It can’t be.
Turning, my heart plummets straight to my stomach as I come face-to-face with two people I never expected to see today, especially here in Passion Falls. Two people I’ve gone out of my way to avoid for nearly three years, ever since they shattered my trust and left me reeling in their wake.
My sister and my ex.
I watch the color drain from Harlow’s face, all the fire she had moments ago snuffed out at the sight of her sister.
Hattie Hayes looks just as polished as I remember. She’s not a knockout like her sister, but not many women are. What I don’t know is who the stiff suit is next to her, and why their presence seems to knock Harlow so far off balance.
“Hattie,” she finally speaks, her voice laced with barely masked surprise. “I didn’t realize you were in town.”
Hattie smiles nervously. “I know, sorry. It was a last-minute thing.”
The discomfort between the two is more than palpable.
This would probably be a good time to walk away and mind my own business. Of course, I do no such thing. I remain exactly where I am, intrigued by whatever the hell is unfolding.
“Finch’s parents are business associates of Amanda’s,” Hattie continues. “Something came up for them last minute, so we’re here in their place.”
Finch?
I barely suppress a laugh. What kind of pussy name is that?
“I see.” The tension in Harlow’s voice is unmistakable. A mix of pain and betrayal. I also notice she doesn’t look in Finchy Boy’s direction, despite the fact he’s practically leering at her.
I instantly hate the guy.
“Well, it’s good to see you.” Hattie steps forward, pulling her sister into an awkward hug.
Harlow visibly stiffens but returns the embrace.
I should be enjoying this. Seeing her squirm, watching her get knocked down a peg…it’s what I live for. But the truth is, I only like seeing Harlow rattled if I’m the one causing it.
Finchy Boy moves in next, his voice dripping with arrogance. “Harlow,” he says in greeting. “You look good.”
He leans in with the intention of kissing her cheek, but she turns her head at the last minute, forcing his lips to her hair instead.
The snub is subtle but speaks volumes. She doesn’t want him near her.
I step closer, my body reacting before my mind, and I decide if he invades her space again, I’ll drop him where he stands.
His gaze shifts to mine, sizing me up with a once-over. “Finch.” He extends his hand, mistaking me for someone who cares. “And you are?”
I’m about to show this asshole exactly who I am, but Harlow jumps in, speaking first.
“This is Linc…my boyfriend.”
The words fire through me like a gunshot, jerking my gaze to hers.
She peers up at me, wide-eyed and pleading, silently begging me to play along.
This would be the perfect moment to strike. To toss her straight into the flames and watch her burn. To claim a long-awaited win in this rivalry of ours. But as she looks up at me, all soft and desperate…I can’t do it.
Turns out, I’m as much as a pussy as Finchy Boy.
“That’s me,” I boast, plastering on my best smile. “The boyfriend.”
Relief floods her features, her posture instantly relaxing.
I take Finch’s outstretched hand, gripping it a little tighter than necessary, my warning clear.
He doesn’t back down. Instead, he puffs out his chest like a damn peacock, something I find highly amusing considering the weasel barely reaches my chin.
Harlow cuts back in, ending the pissing match. “Hattie, you remember Linc, don’t you?”
Surprise flutters across her sister’s face. “Wait…Linc, as in our old neighbor?”
I nod. “The one and only.”
“I thought you looked familiar.” She tilts her head, smiling faintly. “Didn’t you two used to hate each other?”
“Uh…” Harlow pauses, scrambling for an explanation.
Unlike her, I’m quick on my feet.
I sling an arm around her shoulders, pulling her in nice and close. “Well, you know what they say, there’s a fine line between love and hate. And Harlow here just couldn’t resist my charm any longer. Isn’t that right, sweetheart?”