Page 59 of Finding Redemption

“What are you doing? Don’t you dare lay a finger on anything that belongs to me.”

“Too late.” I wink, drawing a sneer from that gorgeous face.

“Would you please just leave?” I turn the key, listening for the telltale tick.

“No.”

“Why are you tormenting me? Can’t you see you’ve already won? I’m done.” At first glance, I don’t see the glaze forming over her eyes, but there’s no mistaking the waver in her voice.

I swallow past the knot forming in my throat and step from the vehicle. “Reese, it’s never been my intention to cause you pain. I apologize for kissing you. It was outta line.”

Tears brimming her eyes, a line forms between them. “What are you talking about? You not only kissed me, but you then left with another woman. How could it not cause pain?”

“I’m sorry. I crossed the line. Besides, you’re in love with someone else.” Her mouth opens and shuts several times, bringing me up short. “What is it? Candy? She means nothing to me.”

“You leave with a woman and honestly expect me to believe she means nothing to you?”

Fuck, I keep putting my foot in my mouth. “No, I’m not gonna pretend it doesn’t mean anything.”

She squeezes her eyes shut, making her cheeks wet when she tilts her head. “I’m not with Alden. I’m not in love with him, not the way you think.”

“I don’t understand. What are you saying? You told me you love him.”

“I love him, yes. But I’m not in love with him.”

Adrenaline rushes throughout my body as her words begin to sink in. “You’re not with Alden?”

“No, he’s my best friend. That’s all.” A line appears between her brows.

“Why did you tell me differently?”

“I didn’t… exactly.” Her forehead furrows. “I wasn’t truthful because I wanted you to think I was dating someone.”

I lift my brows in recognition. “So I wouldn’t hit on you.”

“No! Honestly, it was stupid.” She shrugs, waving me off.

“Well, then. Please explain. I have all evening.” I lean against her truck, waiting for her.

She fidgets, and her eyes dart from me to the building. “I–I wanted you to think we were together. As in, together.”

I study her. “I get that but why?”

She glares at me for a full minute before blurting it out. “Because I like you and wanted to make you jealous.”

I can’t hide my foolish smile with her confession. “You like me?” Warmth radiates through me.

She squints at me. “Yeah, don’t let it go to your head.”

“Can I ask you something?” My palms sweat, and I suddenly regret the question. “Forget it.”

“You might as well. I couldn’t be more embarrassed than I am right now.”

My stomach flips a million times. I straighten, moving closer to her. When I’m mere inches away, she sinks her teeth into her bottom lip. I watch it turn crimson upon contact.

Breath ragged, I stutter my words. “The k-kiss?”

She flushes. “Um-hum.”