Page 35 of Summer Serenade
This was Nash Bennett—the last person she should kiss. Even if she wanted to press her lips against his, that wouldn’t be smart. It would be downright stupid.
She couldn’t give in to her feelings. Not only for him. He was making her think about music as a full-time profession. That dream had almost destroyed her once.
Ivy stepped to the side, ignoring how much she missed his warmth against her. Disaster averted.
For now.
A glance out the window showed darkness. Sometime between arriving and now, the sun had set. She glanced at her phone and then did a double take. Where had the time gone? “It’s nearly midnight.”
“Are you going to turn into a pumpkin?” he teased.
“No, but it’s late.” And she was feeling a little like Cinderella. “You’re supposed to rest while you’re here.”
“I’m relaxed.” He rolled his shoulders. “The tension’s gone. Thanks to…”
You.
Heaven help her, but Ivy wanted to hear him say that.
“…playing,” he said. “Losing myself in music always helps.”
Her breath hitched. Ivy had nothing to do with it. A good thing except she couldn’t ignore the twinge of disappointment. She forced her lips to curve. “Same.”
“Sorry for keeping you here so long.” He didn’t sound contrite. If anything, he appeared pleased they’d spent so much time together.
“No problem. I enjoyed myself, but I should get home. Pearl will wonder where I am.”
Great, now he would think she was a crazy cat lady. Of course she was, but it wasn’t something she broadcasted to hot singers who had the power to make her dreams come true.
Or destroy them. Again.
“I’ll drive you,” he offered.
“I have my car.”
“It’s late.”
Ivy didn’t know if his chivalry was because of his upbringing, manners, or if he had a sense of obligation, but it was unnecessary. She squared her shoulders. “This is Quinn Valley, a small town with a low crime rate and nosey neighbors. As soon as I park, people will peek out between their blinds or curtains to see who is there.”
“But—”
“I’ll be fine.” She’d been taking care of herself for years. Tonight would be no different. “Promise.”
Nash rubbed his hands against his shorts. “Please text me when you’re inside your apartment.”
“I can do that.” She put her guitar in the case and placed the strap of her tote bag over her shoulder. “Thanks for dinner and a fun night.”
“We should do this again.”
A thrill shot through her. “I’d like that.”
“Me, too.” He moved closer.
Ivy stood there unsure what to do next. Hugging him appealed to her, but that seemed too close given they hadn’t known each other long. A handshake was too formal because of the music they’d worked on.
Nash rubbed the back of his neck. “Drive safe.”
“Goodnight.” That parting sentiment would have to do. Unfortunately.
