Chapter 24
Chapter Twenty-Four
Aria
I was glad the morning rush was over. The day had started with such drama, I hadn’t recovered. Not that I was upset about breaking up with Kellan. I was just glad I saw his real side before I let things go any longer. That was the problem with dating. Too many people were skilled at hiding their true persona, the Mr. Hyde side of their personality that they knew would turn a prospective match off. Kellan was particularly skilled at it. Not only that, but his Dr. Jekyll side was so attractive and presentable it was hard to even imagine that he had a Hyde side. The scene this morning had been so intense and, frankly, frightening, that I’d nearly collapsed with relief once he left the café. Dex and his marvelously strong arms just happened to be right there when I needed an embrace. And his hug felt deliciously protective, something I hadn’t ever felt before; certainly not with Kellan. I stood wrapped in his arms for as long as I thought prudent, but I could have stayed there all morning. We returned back to our work right after and hadn’t spoken of the drama since.
With the breakfast rush over, I finally had time to catch my breath and work up the courage to talk to him. Dex had poured himself a cup of coffee to take his first break of the morning.
I had a whole speech planned in my head, but he spoke first. “I’m sorry about all this. In that respect, my brother is right. Trouble likes to follow me. And now I’ve ruined your relationship.”
“And I thank you profusely for that,” I said.
“I don’t understand.”
“Are you kidding? That madman who walked in this morning—he was a complete stranger to me. Honestly, for a few seconds, I thought he might do something physical. That’s why I was so relieved after he walked out.” I dropped my eyes. Shyness wasn’t usually in my character, but something about the way Dex looked at me made me want to melt into a warm blush.
“Trust me, he wouldn’t have gotten within five inches of you before I stopped him.” Dex’s expression showed just how serious he was about that claim. It would have sickened me to know that I caused two brothers to physically fight. “Kellan does have that side, the short-tempered side. It’s definitely not his best side. I feel bad that this arrangement, me working for you, pushed him to show it. I was ready, but honestly, I don’t think he would have done anything to hurt you. You hurt him—his pride, mostly—and I have no doubt he cared deeply for you. Can’t blame him there. You’re someone who deserves only the deepest, most honest affection.”
It was hard not to smile at his words. “Not entirely sure about that. And now I’ve hurt him. But I think he’ll get over it soon. He’s got everything most women are looking for. Just not me. I’ve been independent for too long.” I took a deep breath for the next question. “Are you done here? You told Kellan you’d just finish the day.”
Dex stared down at the cup of coffee in his hand. “I wonder if it’s for the best. I like this job, and I have a particular fondness for my boss.” He punctuated the last part with one of his devastating smiles. “But it sort of feels as if this whole arrangement was cursed from the start.”
I shook my head. “Doesn’t feel like a curse to me. But if you think it’s for the best. I suppose it’ll be easier on me when you suddenly pick up and leave.” As I said it, my throat tightened. The thought of him leaving town and me never seeing him again made everything ache. “Well,” I said with forced airiness, “I’ve got some tables to clean.” I turned away, but he took hold of my hand. I didn’t have the courage to look at him as he held it, but static-filled warmth raced up my arm.
“I think you’d be a hard person to walk away from, Aria Lovely.” His tone was deep and slightly hoarse. I stood there frozen, hearing the words and playing them over and over again in my head, all while his big hand was wrapped around mine. Don’t be crazy, Aria. He’s the last thing you need, especially after the rough ending to your last relationship—a relationship that Dex was tangled in whether he wanted to be or not.
I finally lifted my gaze to meet his, and I could have sworn the floor moved under my feet. “Stay.” The word croaked out of my throat. I knew this was crazy, and it would only end with me being heartbroken, but the thought of Dex leaving town sent a deep loneliness through my bones. I couldn’t remember ever feeling this way about anyone, and as much as it scared me, it also felt exciting … and daunting. I didn’t need to feel this way. I had too much to take care of in my life. I didn’t need someone who’d make my head spin or lift those cement blocks off the ground. Still, I wanted him to stay.
He finally released my hand, but I could still feel his touch. “Are you sure about this, Aria?” The question was simple, but I knew there was more than one meaning behind it.
The flutters returned, and I felt lightheaded. “Yes, Dex, I’m sure.”