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He arched an eyebrow. “My Ba7M5Bu88Project, video games, and holistic medicine development and other investments that interest me.” He tapped my nose. “And I’m very interested in you. Now stop stalling.Tell me.”

I’d just recovered from a drop in blood pressure, so I shouldn’t be this aroused. My body shouldn’t be able to shift from one extreme to another. My lady parts yearned for him.

As an attempt to distract my body from being aroused, I said, “You might see me differently.”

“We all have fears and issues, Kiera. I’m a doctor, but I’m still human. That means I have flaws too. I want to know about your blood aversion. How did it start? When did it start? What are your symptoms? Have you gotten help? Has it gotten worse over the years or stayed the same?”

I smiled at the flood of questions. “I never thought I’d be attracted to a nerd.”

“I’m always attracted to a beautiful woman with a brilliant mind, a kind heart, with a collection of schemes to take out her enemy in the subtlest way.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” My lips twisted into a smirk as I looked everywhere but at his knowing eyes.

“Yes, you do. Julie didn’t know who she was dealing with when she challenged you. I could see the wheels in your head churning at dinner. Want to share what you were thinking?”

“No. Because I don’t want you to be called to the stand as a witness for any crime,” I teased. “I’m only thinking of your wellbeing.”

“You’re so thoughtful . . . sodevious. That’s sexy. That’s my kind of girl.” A wide smile spread across his face, making him more attractive than minutes ago.

He saw me in ways other men never did. I could almost feel my heart blossoming layer by layer.

“It’s late. Shouldn’t you go back to your hotel? We can discuss this another time.”

“I’m not going anywhere tonight until you tell me what I need to know.”

“Fine. You asked for it. It could be a long night, BaMBu Beast.” I jabbed a finger, mimicking the three syllables of the nickname into his hard chest.

“You’re the only one allowed to call me that. That project is important to me. You give the T-shirt and my mission more meaning.”

How was I supposed to react to that?

I leaned back into the couch because I might pass out retelling the story. Inhaling a deep breath, I released it slowly, making room for whatever emotions would emerge.

“This might help.” He placed a throw pillow in my lap. Then he leaned back into the couch, propping his long legs onto the coffee table, looking too comfortable.

I didn’t know why, but thecasual gesture eased my nerves.

“Thanks,” I said and told him my story.

“Mommy, can we eat first? I’m hungry.” I skip along the sidewalk, happy that I’ll be starting second grade in two weeks and three days. Yup, I’ve been counting.

Today is Mom’s day off from work, so she’s taking me shopping at the Providence Place, a mall with a bunch of stores. We’re taking a break for lunch and will do some more shopping later. She already bought me two Chococat T-shirts and matching shorts.

Mom’s a nurse at the Alliance Hospital. Sometimes she takes me in to work to meet her friends, and they give me yummy crackers.

“Wanna go to Food & Fun?” Mommy asks as she carries the shopping bag.

“Yes, please!” I love their grilled cheese and fries. “Can I get the strawberry shake too?”

Mom wraps an arm around my shoulder. “Anything for you.” She pulls me infor a big hug.

“I love you, Mommy.” I beam and hug her tighter.

She taps my head. “Love you more.”

A little boy runs past us, laughing. A girl with pigtails chases after him.

“Slow down, kids!” their father warns.