Intertwined Hearts Series (4 book collection): (Intertwined Hearts, An Exceptional Twist, Tangled Paths & Grafted Vines)

by Kimi Flores

  As we strolled toward the check-out line, Stefen asked, “Aren't you getting anything?”

  Nice of you to notice after we’ve already gone through the entire store.

  “Nah, I was here a few days ago.” As soon as I leaned down for his items in the cart, he touched my elbow and motioned for me to step aside. I shivered from his light caress.

  Taking a quick peek at him, I thought, hijo de puta— I hope he didn’t notice that.

  The sly grin on his mouth said that he had. Then he proceeded to pick up one item at a time before gently placing each on the check-out belt.

  Seriously? I tried not to laugh at him. They were just groceries.

  “It’s not too busy today, but I'll have to remember to come during the week next time.” Stefen swiped his credit card on the machine after greeting the check-out clerk with his killer smile.

  I caught the girl at the register melting. Oh brother, am I going to have to put up with other girls gawking at him today? How nauseating.

  In the parking lot, I pushed the button on my remote to open the back of the van. I pulled my cooler bags out from a hidden compartment and unzipped them. “Put the frozen and refrigerated items in these. I already have ice packs keeping the bags cold.”

  Stefen raised an eyebrow, transferring the things that needed to remain cold into the bags. “You think of everything don't you?”

  Shaking my head, I pursed my lips and sighed. “No, if I thought of everything, I would’ve remembered to bring the bags into the store.” I shimmied past him to return the cart, and then hopped into the driver's side.

  On the way to the farmer’s market, I thought about how much life had changed recently.

  “Are you okay?” Stefen asked. “You seem down all of a sudden.”

  “Yeah. It just hit me how different my weekends will be now that Abby’s married. We've done everything together since college. It’s just going to be—really weird.”

  I can’t believe I’m having this revelation right now. You’re opening yourself up too much to him. I tried to hide just how much this troubled me as we pulled into a parking space.

  “She isn't dead, Leah,” he reminded me. “Only married. Oh, wait a minute. I guess that's kind of the same thing.” He smirked.

  I gasped, pulling the key out of the ignition. “What? You don't believe in marriage?”

  Wait, this isn’t news.

  “It’s not for me at all.” He shook his head vigorously. “I can’t imagine being stuck with the same person for the rest of my life. Way too monotonous.” He smiled widely as though this statement was charming.

  Really? Is that what he thought women wanted to hear?

  “Well I'm planning on getting married someday,” I told him defiantly. “I'm just waiting for the right guy. Besides, marriage isn’t being stuck with the same person. It's about constantly wowing the one you’ve chosen so it doesn't get stale. It’s about being with someone who wows you back. It truly is a beautiful thing.” I couldn’t wait for my turn to come and imagined there was a little twinkle in my eye as I spoke.

  “You do know that Prince Charming is a fairy tale character, don't you?” He snickered.

  What a jerk! Extremely hot, but still a jerk.

  I shook my head. “I'm not looking for the perfect guy, Stefen. I know there's no such thing. I just want my perfect guy. He's just as flawed as I am, but we'll love each other in spite of our faults.”

  He rolled his eyes again. Asshole.

  I got out and grabbed my market baskets, not caring at this point if he followed. Once he finally caught up, I handed him one of the woven baskets and allowed him to close the hatch back. A smile involuntarily broke out on my face as we walked up to all the fresh fruits and veggie stands. This was one of my happy places.

  I felt Stefen's eyes on me when I picked up a tomato and smelled it at the cut stem. “What?” Our eyes met as I sniffed the piece of aromatic fruit.

  “You’ve smelled everything before putting it in your basket.”

  I lifted a brow, as if to say, and? Then smiled. “There’s something magical about the smell of fresh produce. I can imagine what dishes I’ll make just by smelling them.” I bounced a little on the balls of my flip flop-covered feet, not concerned what his opinion was.

  His well-groomed eyebrows raised. “That's odd.”

  “No, it's not. Here, sniff these.” Handing him a tomato, fresh basil, and a bulb of garlic, I asked, “What do you smell?”

  He shrugged. “Tomato, basil, and garlic.”

  Yanking them away, I lifted them up to my nose again, closed my eyes, inhaling deeply, similar to the way I’d smelled him just hours before. “I smell bruschetta. I can almost taste it.” My mouth watered, but wasn’t sure if it was from the thought of eating bruschetta or from the memory of his scent.

  His loud laugh almost startled me. “Are you for real? I've never met someone who does that.”

  I frowned defensively. “Abby does it, too. We smell everything here, then talk about which dishes we'll make. We've even thought about creating our own garden.” I pursed my lips in a pout, regretting it instantly when his eyes landed on them.

  Swallowing hard, he spoke directly to my mouth. “How about you come over for dinner tonight? I’ll grill those steaks I just bought, and you can make that bruschetta, so I can taste what you’re talking about?” His eyes met mine once more.

  It was probably a bad idea to spend any more time with him today, but I was determined to prove that my bruschetta would taste killer. As a bonus, I would get to stare at him a little longer. “Okay, but no more calling me odd while I smell my way through this place.” I held my head high. “Deal?”

  “Deal,” he chuckled.

  ⁂

  Stefen

  I turned the grill on as I waited for Leah. She’d dropped me off hours ago, saying that she had to take care of a few things before coming over for dinner.

  There was something about this girl. She was a bit quirky at times, but actually had a personality. I was going to have a hard time moving on to my normal ditzy blondes when I got home. I’ll worry about that when the time comes.

  Our afternoon together was enjoyable. Not the driving around in her van part, but our conversation was easy and comfortable.

  She didn't seem to be expecting anything from me, and I definitely wasn't used to that. Everyone wanted something from me. It seemed like she just honestly enjoyed my company. The flirting didn’t hurt. It was kind of sweet and innocent. I could tell she was no saint, but I didn't mind her playing the role.

  Taking a minute to appreciate the surroundings, I leaned on the chest-high backyard fence. Damn, Caleb lucked out when he bought this house. The ocean view alone was worth the hefty price. My apartment overlooked Lake Michigan, but nothing beat a view like this.

  The steaks had been marinating in the fridge for an hour. I headed inside to get them when I heard a knock. Answering the door, Leah gawked unabashedly at my bare chest, and I realized that I’d forgot to put a shirt on after my swim earlier.

  Oh yeah, this girl definitely wants me.

  Those sweet innocent brown eyes met mine. “Um—I didn’t use the key, just in case.” Holding up her bag, she added, “I made a rice dish and salad to go with the rest of the food.”

  “Come in.” Stepping aside, I let her pass, unable to take my eyes off her. As she took the food out of the bag, the aroma filled the room. “Wow, that smells delicious. I don't think I've ever drooled over the smell of rice before.”

  “It's my abuelita's recipe.” She smiled fondly. I stared at her, confused, and she explained, “I'm sorry, I mean my grandmother's recipe.”

  “What's in it?” I’d never been so excited about rice before but, damn, it smelled good.

  “Rice with grilled asparagus, mozzarella cheese and cream cheese.” That sounded like an odd combination no matter how delicious it smelled. She must’ve read my mind, because she added, “Believe me, it's super yummy and great with
steak. We usually save it for the holidays. It's that special.” She confidently raised her eyebrows.

  I nodded, then ran my hand through my dark hair. “Well, I'm honored then,” I said in my most charming tone, “that you brought a special family holiday rice dish just for me tonight.”

  She looked away, a blush travelling up from her neck.

  Finally.

  Normally, I could make a girl blush in the first five seconds of meeting her. Secretly pleased, I pointed to the large bowl in her hand. “What's in the salad? That looks good, too.”

  She cleared her throat, nervously setting out the different containers. “Oh, this one is Abby's favorite. It has romaine lettuce, feta cheese, scallions, sesame sticks and poppy seed dressing.”

  She nibbled nervously on her bottom lip, and I wanted to do the same thing to her. “Wow, Abby's favorite dish, too? I must have impressed you.” I winked and could’ve sworn she let out the tiniest gasp.

  “You, sir, are too cocky for your own good,” she shot back.

  “Oh, you have no idea,” I replied, using my deepest tone. I moved toward her as she pulled the bruschetta out of the bag, but she was too fast, sidestepping me before I got a chance to get close to her.

  She clasped her hands in front of her body and asked, “Can I help you with the grill?”

  I snickered and shook my head before picking up the platter of steaks. “No, I've got this part. Why don't you follow me out though, and we can eat by the pool.”

  I guided her out through the French doors that led to the backyard, watching her as she eyed the pool.

  “I wish I had thought to bring my suit. A swim sounds kind of nice.”

  She blinked hard as though she regretted her words, but it didn't stop me from saying, “I went swimming this afternoon but wouldn't mind going again.” The meat sizzled the second I placed it on the grill.

  Staring off toward the pool, then subconsciously looking at her chest, Leah said decidedly, “That’s okay, I'd never fit into one of Abby's, and I don’t really want to drive back home to get mine.”

  I followed her gaze and understood. Abby was very large chested and Leah was—not. Normally I was drawn to women with big racks. But Leah’s boobs were perfect for her body.

  I wouldn’t mind seeing them for myself.

  A great idea came to me. “It's only us. You don't really need one.” I shrugged, smiling with devilish innocence.

  She glared. “Skinny dipping? Really?”

  I bit the inside of my lip to avoid a chuckle. Her words may have said that she was offended, but the fire that lit in her eyes was definitely intrigued.

  Suddenly, I was reminded of my cousin’s warning, and the laughter died in my throat. Shit! I had to fix this. Caleb would kill me if he found out. “Sorry, I didn't mean to offend you. I just thought I'd throw it out there if you were interested.” Hopefully I masked the panic in my voice.

  “Don’t ask again,” she warned, fists on her hips and daggers shooting out of her almond shaped eyes. She really was insulted, which surprised the hell out of me.

  Damn, I thought she would’ve been all over that.

  I put up a hand. “Okay, sorry again. Here, have a seat, and I'll go get the rest of the food while the steaks cook.”

  I pulled a chair out for her and she begrudgingly sat down. Going inside, I grabbed a shirt, threw it on, and took the food she brought out to the backyard. I had better watch my step and not push my luck, at least not tonight.

  I placed everything on the wrought iron patio table, then checked the steaks. Nice and well done, I thought as I moved them to the top rack to let them rest. Turning the grill off, I headed to the table.

  Seemingly lost in thought, Leah stared off at the ocean view. Following her line of sight, I noticed the sun was setting in the horizon.

  No wonder it’s starting to get a little cooler.

  She began to anxiously fidget with the cutlery as she took a deep breath. “Listen, Stefen, I've had a great time with you and all, but I don’t think we should spend any more time together.”

  My eyes widened. “I said I was sorry, Leah. Won't happen again. I'd rather not be stuck in this lifeless town by myself. I have some work that can keep me busy, but I thought we could hang out some more.” I huffed, struggling not to let my annoyance show too much.

  “Lifeless town?” She looked at me, offended again. “This place is gorgeous, and you should feel privileged to be here. There are plenty of things to see and do.”

  She was irritated. Good. I was getting to her as much as she was getting to me.

  About damn time.

  My eyebrow cocked, challenging her. “Prove me wrong. Where should we go tomorrow?” The innocent grin with a hint of devil was back. I gave her a moment to think while plating the steaks and set them down at the table.

  There was a slight crease in her forehead. I could almost see wheels turning in there.

  “I'll think about it,” she said, propping her chin in her hand. “I have to work this week, but maybe next weekend I'll take you to some of our fun spots.”

  “Fun spots?” I grinned, my frustration easing. “I look forward to it.”

  Chapter Three

  Latin Style

  Leah

  I picked up the phone and put it down several times. I didn’t want to call Stefen. He bugged me. He was conceited. And beautiful—dammit, Leah. You’re not going there.

  Finally, I dialed his number. All week I’d told myself I wasn't going to see him again, yet here I was, listening to the phone ringing.

  He had to lay down that damn challenge. I was a sucker for challenges. Besides, before I left last Sunday, he made a point to get my number, even programming it into his cell, then he had the nerve to call it right then to make sure it was correct.

  He’d looked up at me with his sensual smirk and said, “Now you’ll always have my number.”

  I’d wanted to smack him, but thought better of it.

  “Hello?” A deep sexy voice answered.

  “Hey, Stefen, it’s Leah. Are you busy?” I began to bite my cuticles. Something about him made me nervous.

  “Not at all,” his voice deepened further. “I just dropped Madison off at her grandparents’ house. We saw that new dinosaur flick. What’s up?”

  I heard blankets rustling in the background and an image of him sprawled out over a bed flooded my mind. Oh wow.

  Gathering my thoughts, I replied, “I'm, uh—at, um—work right now. But I wanted to see if we could, um—get together later?” When he didn’t answer right away, I started to worry. Maybe I shouldn’t have called him. It was a stupid idea. I gripped the phone a little tighter, then rambled on. “There’s a Spanish-style resort and spa named Escalona a little north of here.”

  “I'm not much of a salsa dancer.” He wasn't going to make this easy for me at all. Damn him.

  I put his own challenge in my tone. “Aren't you up for a little adventure, Mr. Hunter? I thought you wanted to find out what our little beach town had to offer. Stick with me, I'll show you all the moves you need.”

  Once those words came rolling out, I realized how they sounded. “Um, I mean to salsa dance. All the moves you need to salsa dance.” I hated how breathy my voice sounded and was glad he couldn't see my red face through the phone. It was bad enough that he could hear me stumble over the words.

  Stefen’s irresistible chuckle rumbled through the line. “Okay, I'm game. What time should I pick you up?”

  “I'm shutting down my shop at six, so if we leave my house by seven, then we should be there in plenty of time. I have a wedding to work in the morning and need to be in bed early.”

  I could hear his grin through the phone. “See you at seven, then. And I’ll make sure to get you into bed at a decent hour.” He chuckled darkly before hanging up.

  I'm totally screwed.

  ⁂

  I swooshed the hangers in the closet back and forth, wondering what I should wear. In the end, I decided on a
red backless halter dress that matched perfectly with my strappy ruby-colored heels. Digging through my underwear drawer, I grabbed my favorite pair of red lace panties, then hurried into the bathroom for a quick shower.

  I ran later than I’d anticipated, given the last customer didn't leave the shop until almost six-thirty. Ready in record breaking time, I’d just sprayed perfume when I heard a knock on the door.

  I answered it, and Stefen’s eyes raked down my body. His gaze was unrushed and heated as he scanned upward to meet my eyes.

  “Wow, Leah. You look unbelievable.” His eyes narrowed, taking me in.

  “Thanks.” Flustered by his flattery, I self-consciously tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. “You clean up pretty nicely yourself.”

  And damn did he. It took everything I had not to slide my hands under his dark jacket and run them down the material of his grey button-down shirt.

  “Ready to go?” I said in a rush. Not waiting for his answer, I grabbed my purse and held my breath as I turned to lock the door, knowing his eyes were now checking out how low cut my dress was in the back.

  Glancing over my shoulder, I caught his stare focused on my ass. I smiled and shook my head. Men.

  “What’s the matter?” I teased, happy that I’d finally gotten to him.

  Stefen gulped as he looked up. “Nothing. I just didn’t expect—I don’t know what I expected.” He closed his eyes and shook his head once. “Let’s go.”

  He placed his hand where the dress gathered, leaving his thumb access to rub my bare lower back. Goosebumps broke out along my arms, and gulped.

  How the hell am I going to get through this evening without throwing myself at him?

  ⁂

  Stefen

  Pulling into the lavish resort, I couldn't help but acknowledge what a classy place it was. Large palm trees lined the circular driveway that lead to what looked like a luxurious mansion you might find in Spain. This was definitely my kind of place.

  When I was home in Chicago, I went to a lot of parties in houses that looked similar to this resort. The only real difference was the ocean in the background. I was beginning to get too attached to that damn ocean.