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

by Kimi Flores

  I stepped out of the car and glanced at the valet attendant opening Leah's door. That brazen ass had the nerve to gawk at her in front of me. An unfamiliar possessive feeling washed over me.

  Yep, buddy, she’s probably used to being with lowlifes like you, but she's here with me tonight.

  I tossed the keys over to the attendant, putting my arm assertively around her waist and looked back once to eyeball the minimum-wage employee who was still shamelessly checking her out.

  Once I was done with her, this guy could have a shot if he wanted. But as soon as I thought it, I was instantly pissed off.

  “Dipshit,” I mumbled under my breath.

  “Excuse me?” Leah pulled away, eyeing me.

  “Not you.” Wrapping my arm around her waist, I pulled her close again. “I was talking about the jackass undressing you with his eyes.”

  Her eyes widened, surprised.

  “You didn’t notice him, did you?” There’s no way she didn’t see him checking out her every curve.

  She smoothed her dress down, snaking her arm around me as she admitted, “I don’t usually pay attention to other guys when I’m on a date.” Then her shit eating grin broke free.

  This is going to be a long night.

  We strolled through the elaborately decorated lobby of the Spanish colonial resort. I took it all in as we went, loving the feel of Leah’s arm wrapped around me.

  Leaning in, she whispered, “Let’s grab a cart to the restaurant. This property is just under eighty-acres, so it’s nice to hitch a ride when you can.”

  She led me to the golf cart, her floral perfume overwhelming my senses. Once on board, the driver zipped around the miniature road so quickly, I wondered how we would get back to the lobby.

  As we pulled in front of the restaurant, Leah hopped off and ran ahead of me. The hostess looked up when Leah provided her name. I wasn’t used to my dates taking the lead. Stuffing my hands in my pockets, I tried to squash the uncomfortable feeling and remain a gentleman.

  We were seated on the outdoor oceanfront terrace. I took a breath of the salty air. This is my kind of place.

  Perusing her menu, Leah made a silly face while concentrating on what food to order. “What sounds good to you? We can get a couple of tapas to share or have our own dishes.” Nonchalantly placing her index finger on her mouth, she swiped back and forth.

  “What?” I asked. I couldn’t remember what she said, I’d been concentrating so hard on her lips. Oh yeah. I remembered. “Your choice.”

  Usually, I did the ordering. The best cut of steak for me, salad for the lady, and the finest wine the restaurant had to offer. None of my dates ever minded. However, Leah’s excitement was palpable as she browsed the menu, and I wanted her to pick whatever was putting that sparkle in her eyes.

  “Abby and I normally share a couple of plates.” That finger continued to slide across her mouth.

  The fantasies of what I wanted to do to that finger and those lips, were making things a bit uncomfortable for me. Discreetly adjusting myself, I closed my menu, wrapping my hand around hers to still the distracting movement. “At this point, I'll agree to whatever you want.”

  Catching her eyes, I offered my most sinful grin, and I heard her breath catch. Yeah, she definitely picked up on my double meaning.

  She cleared her throat again, redirecting our conversation back to the food. “I’ll order a few different types of tapas, then.”

  I had to give it to her. Leah was fantastic at switching subjects.

  The waiter approached with a huge grin, disregarding me completely. Why do these jackwads think it’s okay to flirt with her in front of me?

  Leah smiled sweetly up at him as she placed her hand on his. What the hell? “Hola, Antonio.”

  She knows him by name? I tried not to glare at the waiter—I didn’t need spit in my food—but I couldn’t help the jealousy spiking my pulse.

  She was grinning at the guy like they’d grown up together. “We’d like Ensalada Tropical, Aceituna con Limón, Chorizos a la Plancha, Cameron con Patatas al Alioli, and Pechuga de la Pollo Madrilena. Gracias.” They shared a parting smile before Antonio strode away.

  You have got to be shitting me.

  I tried to hide my annoyance, so I fisted my hands in my lap where she couldn’t see. “Friend of yours?”

  She creased her forehead, looking confused.

  Raising my eyebrows, I reminded her of what she’d just said in the lobby. “I thought you don’t pay attention to other guys when you’re on a date.”

  She didn’t even try to hold in her laugh. “Abby and I used to come here on special occasions. We got to know Antonio pretty well.”

  “What the hell does that mean? Pretty well.”

  Shit, I’m losing my cool in front of her.

  Patting my hand, Leah gave me a condescending look. “Stefen, relax. He’s gay.”

  “No way! He totally ignored me.” All gay men love me.

  “Wow, that’s a bit arrogant, don’t you think? Just because he’s gay, doesn’t mean he’s going to drool over every man he comes across. Antonio’s in a committed relationship and respects his partner.” Turning her head, she added under her breath, “Something you know nothing about.”

  I wasn’t even going to waste my time calling her out on that comment because she was right, and I really didn’t care.

  Whatever. I grunted and switched topics. “That sounded like a lot of food.” I looked around at the other patrons. “Do you have a whole family of waiters that are going to come eat with us?”

  A know-it-all smirk crossed her face, and she rolled her eyes. “No. Tapas are very small dishes.” She circled her thumbs and forefingers, indicating how small. “I’m surprised you’ve never had them before.”

  My eyes sparked. “I ate tapas when I was in Spain. I know what size they are, it just sounded like you were ordering a lot of food.” I smoothed a hand down my shirt. “What was that other one with lemon?”

  “Olives. It's one of my favorites and super delish.” A genuine smile replaced her know-it-all attitude. This girl certainly lit up when it came to her food.

  “I look forward to trying it, then.”

  After a little conversation, the food arrived. She wasn’t exaggerating— these tapas were small. So small, I wasn’t sure I could stretch the plate into two bites. Hungry, I decided to eat more of the bread and roasted red pepper garlic mayonnaise the waiter brought earlier.

  “Their food is sooo good.” Leah moaned softly while devouring a piece of chicken. She licked the sauce from her lips, throwing my mind into another round of fantasies.

  I shifted uncomfortably in the seat. “Uh, yeah—it's delicious.” I cleared my throat, eyes widening. If she doesn’t stop that damn licking soon, I’m going to lick her lips for her. Intentionally looking out at the view, I said, “So tell me about your flower shop.”

  She wiped her mouth, using a cloth napkin.

  Son of a bitch. She needed to stop that. Stop it all.

  She set the napkin down, completely oblivious. “I always knew that I wanted to own a flower shop and of course mine is the best in town.” Her proud smile was endearing. “I love flowers and the joy they bring people. They can brighten some of the saddest moments. I know it sounds corny but, when I'm arranging flowers, I feel like an artist. Like I’m able to affect people emotionally. I have a couple of very talented girls working for me, too.” She smiled, eyes bright and full of joy as she described not only her occupation, but her passion.

  Finished with dinner, we decided against dessert. When the check came, we both grabbed for the slip at the same time, but I snatched it up a millisecond before her.

  Reaching for it, she said sternly, “I invited you. My treat.”

  When our fingers touched, I felt her shiver. “I don't think so. I never let a woman pay. It's not in my nature.”

  Resigning, she pulled her hand away, offering a thankful smile. “Well, that's very chivalrous of you. I’m not
used to anyone paying for me.” She gazed out at the ocean. The sun had already set, but the waves could be heard crashing quietly against the sand.

  I wondered what kind of pricks she’d been dating if they’d let her contribute to the bill.

  Once the tab was settled, we headed to the club where the fast tempo of Latin dance music could be heard. The moment we entered, all eyes were on us. Or rather, all eyes were on her, and she acted as though she hadn’t noticed.

  Couches lined the walls, while tall circular tables with bar stools filled the center of the room. An oblong-shaped bar with an intriguing mosaic tile design was located at the end of the room as well as a rather large dance floor. It was packed.

  I held onto her elbow and led her through the sea of people to get to the bar. “What would you like to drink?” I yelled into her ear over the loud music.

  Leah’s eyes lit up as she took in the atmosphere. “I'd love a White Russian.”

  I ordered, paid for the drinks, and directed us to the only open table I could see. Before I could get my ass on the tall chair, she tugged on my arm.

  “I love this song. Can we dance?” She had a pouty look on her face. Not like a child’s. It was the pout of a beautiful seductress. No matter how she tried to play the part, this was no innocent woman.

  “Sure.” I placed a light hand on her hip. “Let's go.”

  Before we even hit the dance floor, she started swaying her hips, taking small quick steps from side to side as she matched the rhythm of the beat. She looked like an exotic, untouchable fantasy. I tried to keep up, but it was near impossible to follow her flawless moves.

  Jolts of energy ran through my entire body as she unexpectedly dug her fingers into my hips.

  “Like this,” she guided me, holding firmly as she moved her hands and my hips up and down to the beat of the music. Turning around, she backed into me shaking her ass and rocking her hips. Her arms raised above her head while she wiggled her shoulders.

  Holy shit. She was intoxicating.

  I hoped she didn’t back up too far and discover just how much I was enjoying her dance moves. She ran her hands under her hair and pulled it up, exposing one of my favorite parts on a woman’s body. Her neck. The skin running down her neckline and shoulders glistened with sweat as she continued to move her body.

  Drinking her in, I decided there wasn’t much I wouldn’t do to make her mine. At least, for one night. That was all I wanted. One fantastic night.

  Between the effects of the strobe lights, her sweaty body, floral scent, and visions of what I’d like to do to her, I was ready to pick her up caveman-style and get the hell out of here. When she turned around, she gave me a look that suggested she was up for the same thing.

  I leaned in to finally kiss her sensual lips when we were interrupted by a guy who thought he was Rico Suave, curly long black hair, opened button-up shirt, and all.

  Who the hell let this guy in?

  “You wanna dance with me next, beautiful?”

  Seriously, Asshole?

  I wrapped my arm around her waist and yanked her into my side. “She has a dance partner. Fuck off.”

  This son of a bitch has some serious balls.

  Her back stiffened against me, and she threw her head over her shoulder. “That was very primitive of you.” She spoke just loud enough for me to hear over the music as the asshat strolled away, tail between his legs.

  I apologized as she turned to face me. “I—I—I'm sorry. Did you want to dance with him?” I fisted my hands by my side, aggravated that, not only was this woman making me stutter, but also because I was losing control.

  “I never said that it bothered me.” She shrugged, running her hands over my shoulders while she pressed her chest into me. “I was merely pointing it out. I'm here with you.” She rewarded me with a very seductive smile.

  With her back to me, she continued to swirl her hips, and the tension eased. Damn right, you’re here with me. But my relief was short-lived when I lifted my head and noticed that all eyes were still on her.

  Typically, when I went out with other women, the only looks they got were from other jealous females. Tonight, I felt completely invisible. That’s a first.

  Irked, I yelled over the loud music, “Why don't we sit down and finish our drinks? I know you have to get back early.”

  Still on a high from dancing, she missed my irritation. “Okay, that sounds good.” She was breathless and glistening from the sweat she’d worked up.

  I scanned the room as we pushed through the crowd, narrowing my eyes as my gaze caught on the guy who'd asked Leah to dance. Rico turned his head to avoid eye contact.

  How the hell did he have the balls to ask her to dance and none to fight me for her? What a pansy ass.

  Observing the way people were noticing that sexy ass dress she was wearing, I took the opportunity to check her out from behind again. I had to get us to the table quicker. I yanked the seat out a bit rougher than I intended.

  She eyed me. “Are you okay?”

  “Yeah, I'm just a little tired,” I lied.

  Pointing to her glass, she said, “I don't have to finish this. We can go.”

  Dammit. I was going to be that guy—the one who forced us to leave because I was throwing a jealous tantrum, but I couldn’t stay here any longer. “If you don't mind.”

  She stood, and I squeezed her hip as we headed out. The only noise as we walked back to the lobby was the clicking of her heels on the clay tiled floor.

  Outside, I raked my hands through my hair in frustration. No carts in sight. Well, at least she knew how to get back. As we started back, I noticed the chill. Although it was summertime, the cool ocean air had a slight bite to it.

  Leah rubbed her hands up and down her arms for warmth as we made our way up the windy cement path toward the lobby.

  Maybe I can salvage the night, after all. “Are you cold?”

  “A little. I forgot my shawl at home.”

  “Come over here.” I pulled my lapel open, inviting her to join.

  She smiled and came closer as I wrapped my jacket around her bare shoulders. Initially, I thought about just giving her the coat, but now I had permission to hold her close.

  Once we reached the entrance, I handed my ticket to a different valet than the jackass earlier. Leah stretched her arms around me, inside my jacket, melting into my body.

  This felt good. Too damn good. I was noticing my emotions were starting to get wrapped around her.

  Remember the goal here. If you can’t, then you better walk away right now.

  Smiling, Leah peered up, and her face fell. “Something’s wrong. Didn't you have fun tonight?”

  I waved my hand in the air, gesturing around while pulling away. “Sure. It was great. It was more the crowd that I didn't care for.”

  Leah’s eyes widened. “Really? I thought it was fine.”

  “It was. Just not my scene.” I glanced around, anxious to find out where the damn car was. These guys were too slow and didn't deserve the tip I was going to give just to impress her.

  “I’m sorry.” She glanced down. “I thought you would have a good time here tonight. It’s one of my favorite places.” Her voice was small, regret washing across her features.

  I placed my thumb gently under her chin and lifted it, trying to convince her. “I did have a good time. With you.”

  She tried to turn away, but I held her in my grasp. “Leah, it wasn’t you. Trust me, okay?” Once she nodded, I dropped my hand, watching our car approaching.

  Finally. The valet got out, tossed me the keys, and I handed the kid a tip.

  Most of the ride back was spent in silence. Everything was warring inside me. I wanted her, but without strings. Could I have that? My need was becoming overpowering, though, and I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to let her go tonight without touching her, kissing her—

  A few blocks before we reached her place, Leah opened her mouth to say something and then closed it.

  Wha
t was she going to say? I wanted her to open up to me. Now I cursed my shitty attitude.

  Unable to help myself, I asked, “What’s on your mind?”

  She twisted her hands nervously in her lap. “How do you feel about doing something a little touristy but fun that includes brunch and wine?”

  A chance to spend more time with her? That got my attention. “I'm all ears.”

  She breathed a sigh of relief, and I could feel the awkward tension dissipating.

  She smiled. “There's a company out here that guides wine tasting tours to a few local vineyards in Santa Ynez. The first winery provides an early brunch.” Studying my reaction, she continued, “I’m free next Saturday, and I thought you might be interested in going—unless you have other plans,” she tacked on at the end.

  I smiled reassuringly at her. “Nope. No plans. That sounds great.”

  “Great.” Her smile widened and her hands settled in her lap. “I’ll take care of the details. I found it online today.” She caught herself, “Um, I mean, I'll make the reservations tomorrow when I get into the shop.”

  So she wanted to spend more time with me. She wants me. “Now I have something to look forward to.” Cocking an eyebrow, I added, “Do me a favor though?”

  “What?” Seemingly innocent eyes looked up at me, but again, I knew better.

  “As stunning as you look right now, please have mercy on a guy and cover up next time. You know, so I don’t have to beat the assholes down.” I winked to let her know I was joking. Sort of.

  A small giggle escaped her. “Oh, I see.”

  “See what?” I frowned.

  “You’re jealous.” She gazed out the windshield with a smirk.

  The hell? I was not jealous. I didn’t do jealous. Not my thing.

  Narrowing my eyes, I clenched my teeth, white-knuckling the steering wheel. This girl was messing with my head. Not only was she tying me up in knots, now she was calling me on my feelings, too.

  Damn.

  Leah is going to be the death of me. But what a fantastic way to go.