Page 49 of A Minute Past Midnight

“You’re suspicious.”

“As I should be.”

“Why?”

“Because you’re hiding something.”

He gave me an innocent expression. “I would never.”

I stared at him. “Liar.”

That deep laugh escaped him as he leaned over and kissed my cheek. “You’re beautiful when you’re suspicious.”

“You’re avoiding the question.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

I rolled my eyes, but something told me he was lying. When the vehicle finally stopped, I looked through the window.

Then my mouth fell open.

“Oh my God.” The house sat directly in front of the ocean. The view was absolutely breathtaking as the waves crashed gently against the shoreline and sunlight reflected across the water. The partially renovated home already looked beautiful, with its elegant structure, expansive windows, and open spaces designed to capture every inch of the ocean view.

I slowly stepped from the vehicle once Samir came around to open my door.

“This . . .” I couldn't even form the words to speak.

“Beautiful, ain’t it?”

I turned in a slow circle. “It’s incredible.”

He stood behind me, wrapping his arms around my waist. His hands naturally settled against my stomach as I placed mine over his.

“The family wants to expand it,” he explained. “More rooms. More outdoor space. Maybe another level.”

I stared at the house. “They’re lucky.”

His chin rested against my shoulder. “Why?”

“Because they get to wake up to this.”

His arms tightened slightly. “You deserve something beautiful too.”

“What was that?”

“Nothing.”

I narrowed my eyes at him.

Again.

Lying.

“Come on,” he said, grabbing my hand.

We walked toward the house together, and the moment he opened the door, I stopped.

Completely frozen.