Page 10 of Igniting Sparks

Bitsy blinks up at Ori, surprised by her uninvited entrance into our chat. “And what makes you an expert?”

“I’ve been around plenty of men and slept with plenty more. Both Hammond brothers are the epitome of good and decent men.”

Fire flashes in Ori’s eyes as she defends Ash and Braden.

No one talks trash about her man, unless it’s me and I only dared do that when he shattered my best friend’s heart.

Now that Ash is utterly devoted, I’m devoid of anymalcontent. But I’m enjoying the hell out of watching Bitsy on the hot seat.

It’s about time.

“Personally, I’m thrilled for my daughter,” my mother replies. “Braden comes from a good family.”

“Really?” Bitsy’s sarcasm drips off that single word.

My mother sips her coffee and releases a slow breath. “Just because they’re not members of your country club doesn’t mean they aren’t upstanding citizens. One doesn’t need to be pompous to be worthwhile.”

My mother never, and I meannever, raises her voice. Seems even someone with the patience of a saint has their limits where Bitsy Farnsworth is concerned.

Bitsy isn’t used to being called on the carpet, especially not by us lowly blue collars. She taps her fingers on the table, motioning to Vanessa. “I look forward to spending time with you and Braden in the very near future. Until then.”

A snort of laughter sounds to my right, and I peel my eyes from my aunt’s retreating form to look at Ori. “What?”

“Didn’t know you had it in you. Here I thought you were shy and sweet. Little did I know, you’re a regular femme fatale, Mina.”

With a groan, I bury my head in my hands. “What was I thinking?”

“That you wanted to kiss Braden? About damn time, too.”

“Come on. Braden played it off right now because I begged him, and because he’s a nice guy. There is no way he’s going to sign on for the duration of this fiasco, and you know Bitsy plans to put him through his paces.” I huff out a breath as my headache makes a resurgence. “He’s going to hate me, isn’t he?”

“Of course not,” my mom and Ori respond in stereo.

But I have my doubts. About everything.

Ori pulls her phone from her pocket, a smile breaking across her face. “Time to face the executioner, love.”

“What?”

She shoves the phone under my face.

There’s a message. From Braden.

I need to speak with Mina immediately. Can you send her over once she’s done?

Chapter 3

The Best Bad Idea

Braden

Poker face, don’t fail me now.

I stroll into Black Lotus, praying my expression is one of vague disinterest, totally nonplussed by Mina’s unexpected kiss.

A kiss that started out innocent enough… and very nearly turned into bending her over the coffee bar and tearing her clothes off.

No one should taste that sweet.