Page 74 of Total Shutdown

Playboy. He’s probably been in a similar position himself at some point. I bet he has a few skeletons in his closet.

I think backto his run-in with Shane and Kassie.

Me

True that.

Is it bad that I’m already thinking of ways I can get you in that position again?

Collins

Not happening.

As her latestmessage comes through, I can’t help the sense of unease. Is she serious? No more sex? I want so much more with her. I’m a patient guy, especially when it comes to the people I care about. But I need to know where her head is at.

Me

It might be a really bad idea, bringing this up now and over text, but I have to know, Collins. Do I even stand a chance with you?

Collins

You’re right; this is a really bad idea—and bad timing too. I want to talk to you about us when you get home. There’s so much I have to say.

My stomach roils,threatening to empty itself out onto the plush hotel carpet.

Me

That’s another four days away.

Collins

I know, and I’m not trying to be deliberately evasive. I just need this time to figure everything out in my head.

I like you, Sawyer. I like everything about you.

Tension dissipates from my body,although not entirely, and a smile slowly creeps onto my face.

Me

Why don’t you let me take you out when I get home on Sunday morning? How about some breakfast?

Collins

I’m working overtime again at the garage.

Somethingabout the number of hours my girl works doesn’t sit right with me. I get that she’s passionate about bikes and her job, and I get that Brooklyn is an expensive place to live, so she needs the money for rent, but I don’t hear of other mechanics picking up hours like she does.

I consider typing out a message to that effect but quickly think better of it. Poking my nose into her business willnotget me on the right side of Collins Mackenzie.

Archer stirs in the bed next to mine, and as he mumbles something in his sleep, an idea blooms in my head. Not far from her garage is a place called Lustful Luxuries.

Me

All right, how about I take you out for lunch? You get an hour, right?

Collins

I do, and, yes, why not? So long as it isn’t stuffy or snooty.