It’s possibly the least smooth come-on ever, but I don’t care. My thoughts are racing. He’s not her boyfriend. She’s single. Which means…
Beth stares at me, frozen in place. I tug her hand gently, pulling her to sit back down next to me.
“I have for a while,” I say quietly. “Shit. Pretty much ever since I first saw you in the lobby.”
Her lips part. “You have?” She croaks.
I nod. My blood beats through me as I remember the soft, longing look she gave me earlier in the shop. I thought I was just imagining it, but maybe, just maybe—
Slowly, watching her face, I reach over and push some hair behind her ear. She quivers, but doesn’t pull away. If anything, she presses into my touch. My heartbeat pounding in my head, I curve my hand around the back of her neck and slant my mouth over hers.
Fireworks burst behind my eyes. Her lips are unbelievably soft. She tastes like chocolate and whipped cream, and I find myself leaning forward, deepening the kiss, licking that sweet taste right out of her. She sighs against my lips, twisting her hand in my jumper and kissing me back deeply. It’s a slow kiss, gentle and tentative and sweet. Her soft body trembles against mine. Heat shimmers under my skin. I press closer, hungry for more.
Suddenly, Cami lets out a loud cry.
Beth stiffens, jerking away from me so fast she almost smacks me in the face. Her eyes are wide and horrified.
“Beth?” I ask, concerned. “Hey. Are you okay?”
She stands, breathing hard. “I, um…” She presses a hand to her hot cheek. “I still need the loo,” she mumbles, pushing out her chair and practically running to the ladies’ bathroom. I watch her disappear, my heart sinking.
I’m so goddamn stupid.
“I’ve screwed this up, haven’t I?” I ask Cami. She kicks her legs and cries louder.
