Page 19 of Allie
“Still don’t trust him,” Roan growled and laid back on the bench to wrap his fingers around the barbell.
"I don’t know. I think people judge others too quickly.” Draven stood at Roan’s head and over the bar to spot Roan if he needed it. “I sold him his house a while back. He was one of my easiest clients."
"Really? He seems... well, a bit standoffish." I pressed the button to increase the incline on the treadmill.
"Grumpy and a loner, but not a bad dude," Draven said with a shrug. "You know, the type who prefers books over people."
"Hey, books don't talk back," I quipped, but my curiosity was piqued. I loved reading. It was my little escape from reality.
"True," Draven conceded, the corner of his mouth lifting in acknowledgment. "But I'd wager you're the kind of puzzle he wouldn't mind solving."
I rolled my eyes at Draven's insinuation, though I couldn't deny the flutter in my chest at the thought. Grant seemed like the type who would be full of surprises—much like the collar around Aspirin's neck that had sparked with unseen magic earlier.
"Let's not get ahead of ourselves," I said, trying to sound more nonchalant than I felt. "We have our own workout to tackle and a murder to solve."
Panting and slick with sweat, I led the way back to my apartment, keys jangling in my tired grip. "So, who's up for a homemade breakfast?" I asked, pushing open the door.
"Depends," Roan teased, following close behind. His voice was a low rumble that vibrated through the air. "Who's making it?"
"Considering my culinary skills end at toasting bread, not me," Draven declared as he sauntered in, his dark eyes gleaming with amusement under the morning light filtering through the blinds.
"Guess it's down to you then, wolf-boy," I said, nudging Roan playfully.
"Challenge accepted," he replied with a confident smirk that sent an inexplicable shiver down my spine.
"Great! I'm off for a quick shower," I announced, already peeling off my damp tank top, aware of Draven's and Roan’s gazes on me.
The sound of cabinets opening and closing followed me as I retreated to the bathroom. The hot water was a blissful cascade, washing away the remnants of exertion from the gym. I closed my eyes, letting the steam envelop me, cocooning myself in the soothing heat.
From the kitchen, the clinking of utensils and sizzling sounds wove through the rushing water. The rich aroma of cooking eggs and perhaps bacon snuck under the door, making my stomach growl in anticipation. Laughter, deep and genuine, punctuated the air and I couldn't help but smile at myself.
I stepped out of the shower refreshed and dressed in a pair of loose fit jeans and a graphic tee. I let my hair dry naturally and headed out of my bedroom.
The aroma of sizzling bacon and the rich, earthy scent of brewed coffee hit me as I entered the kitchen. Draven and Roan had outdone themselves, moving around each other with ease, laying out plates piled high with scrambled eggs, crispy strips of bacon, and buttered toast.
"Hope you're hungry," Roan said with a grin, his eyes crinkling at the corners in a way that made my insides flutter like butterflies taking flight.
"Starving," I replied, taking my place at the table.
Draven slid a plate in front of me, then pressed a kissed to the top of my head. "Eat up. You'll need your strength if you're going to deal with customers all day."
"Thanks," I said with a grin. It was my first day working at Nat’s Boutique. I was looking forward to it. Maybe I would be able to chat up the customers and find out more about Doyle and his death.
We ate mostly in silence, the clinking of cutlery and the occasional contented sigh filling the air. Every now and then, I caught Roan watching me. Draven, well, he was harder to read, his gaze often lingering on me with an intensity that sent shivers down my spine.
As we finished the last bites of our meal and pushed our plates away, I said. "I better get going," I stood and moved to the door where my sandals were. "Can't be late on my first day."
"Need a ride?" Roan offered, pushing back his own chair back.
"Or moral support?" Draven chimed in, arching an eyebrow in a playful challenge.
A laugh escaped me, light and surprised. "It’s on the second floor. You both could ride the elevator down with me.”
Draven had to get to his office, and Roan was going back to the library to do more research.
After rinsing the dishes and putting them in the dish washer, I gathered my things and headed for the door.
We rode the elevator to the second floor. When the doors swished opened, Roan took my hand and tugged me to him. Then he kissed me. A small moan escaped me, and I pressed into him. When he broke the kiss, I said, “Tease.”