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KELSEY

Okay, so the weekend didn’t go badly. I mean, it was awkward at the wedding, but it is what it is on that front.

The orgasm was probably the highlight of the entire trip.

One I wouldn’t mind having a repeat performance of.

Judging by the firmness in Deke’s jaw and how eerily quiet he’s been the three-hour drive back to Gulf Shores, that’s not gonna happen.

I’m not sure what all went down when he was talking to Asa, and I didn’t pry.

I’m sitting in the passenger seat, feet on the dashboard in his ridiculously expensive, ultra-luxurious SUV.

The leather seats mold to your body, have air conditioning and a heater built-in as well.

I wouldn’t be surprised with all the buttons on the dashboard if the seats can somehow massage your body.

That’s why I’m determined to annoy the hell out of him, or at least I hope I am.

The almost sneer-like facial expression Deke threw my way was kind of telling.

He’s already aggravated. I might as well add fuel to the fire.

“If you don’t mind, can you drop me off at the boutique?

” With us getting a late start for our trip home, it makes more sense.

Plus, it’s more on his way home, unlike my place that’s off the beaten path.

Not that I mind. It’s secluded on the outskirts of the shore.

A small place that has a direct view to the beach.

I can walk out my backdoor not even a hundred yards, and the water is at my feet.

“You don’t even have your car there. I’ll take you home.” You can cut the tension with a knife in this vehicle.

“I have a spare car there that we use for the company. Honestly, I have a few things I’d like to do tonight before the store opens tomorrow.

It’s tourist season, and money can be made when the store is completely stocked.

” My sister, Emily, worked two days straight.

There’s no way I would expect her to have restocked the store after putting in double shifts two days in a row.

“Alright. Be sure to text someone once you leave and get home. Even if that has to be me.” Wow, shocker with that tone of voice.

“I’m not sure if anyone has ever told you this before, but you’re kind of a dick.

” It’s too bad, too. On paper, he’s the real McCoy, but once Deke opens his mouth, you kind of want to duct tape it shut.

I mean, I could go on and on, imagining the reason why he and Asa were clearly on the outs; just because they did their little hug act doesn’t mean shit is kosher.

I have a sister of my own. Dad is a brother to two other siblings which happen to be male.

He’s told me all about men. They don’t talk their feelings out.

That’s for pussies. They’d rather fight it out, then go back to being friends like nothing ever happened.

I’m willing to bet the Harts are just like that.

“And you’re a ray of sunshine.” I smile at his words because I know I fucking am.

I’ve got a sunny disposition an am always my smiling, optimistic self.

It’s just who I am. Some might say it’s fake to always be so happy.

That’s bullshit, though. I’m happy because I’ve worked hard on myself, not relying on anyone to make me feel like I need them in my life.

“That’s me, sunshine on a cloudy day.” The brick road is up ahead, which means our time is coming to a close.

Truthfully, I’m torn about whether to be excited or sad.

That’s something I’ll probably dwell on tonight while I’m working.

Who am I kidding? My brain won’t shut down until I pick every little thing apart.

Seriously, when your mind works like mine, constantly puzzling pieces together to make them whole, it can be annoying.

“I’ll just bet.” Deke pulls into the parking spot in front of the store.

When Emily and I told our parents we were going into business together, they were speechless, excited but quiet.

I’m sure they remembered all the times we fought, but once we grew up and didn’t live under one roof, things changed for the better.

Now our small boutique is thriving and our relationship is fun. We’re the yin to each other’s yang.

“Thanks for the ride. I take it we’re even now?” I take my feet off the dash and unclick my seatbelt, grabbing my purse all before he’s put the car in Park .

“Yep. You have an issue like before, call me. A restraining order doesn’t mean dick to some assholes.” I don’t think I’ll ever understand Deke. That’s okay, though, because I doubt very seriously Phillip will mess with me again.

“Don’t I know it.” I open the door and step out, closing it quickly before opening the back door.

Deke doesn’t even have a chance to step out of the car.

I’m ready to disengage in all areas possible, plus I doubt he wants anything to do with me on a daily basis, what with his whole talk after the delicious orgasm he gave me.

I’ll be keeping that for spank bank material, though. “It was a fun weekend. See you around.”

“Kels.” I hear him say my name, but the door is already shutting. I wave over my shoulder, pulling my keys out, at the ready, and ducking my head. You could call me cowardly, but honestly, I think Deacon Hart needs a dose of reality served, and I’m going to be the one to dish it up for him.