Page 37 of Igniting Sparks

“That’s not what I meant. Let’s go back inside and?—”

“Pretend it didn’t happen?” I scoff. “No thanks. I’m good. But hey, don’t worry. I’m sure that other chick you were with has plenty of experience.”

“Mina, please?—”

But I’m already darting up the path toward the house. Once inside, I lock myself in my room and collapse on the bed.

I’ve never felt this humiliated.

I offered myself to Braden—and he said no.

It was just sex. I wasn’t begging for a ring.

How stupid do I have to be to need it spelled out?

Braden doesn’t want me.

Sure, he’s letting me stay here. Standing in as my fake fiancé. But that’s not because hefeelsanything. It’s pity. Plain and simple.

Maybe he would’ve fucked me if I hadn’t admitted I’m a virgin-once-removed. Because he’s a man. And I was a willing body.

But it wouldn’t have been because he wantedme.

If he did, he wouldn’t have hurt me like this.

And the worst part?

I still have to see him every day and pretend none of it matters.

Chapter 8

When Good Guys Screw Up

Braden

Braden: Can we please talk? I hate that I upset you.

Thirty seconds later…

Mina: Don’t worry about it. I’m going to bed. Goodnight.

What Mina doesn’t realize is that I spent the whole of last night worrying about it.

I know I’m not an asshole for telling her no, so why do I feel like one?

She’s right. Her being a virgin, or basically one, freaked me out. Some guys might have jumped at the chance, but then again, some guys behave like dogs when a piece of ass is up for the taking.

I’m not one of those guys. I respect the hell out of Mina—too much for her to be another notch onmy bedpost.

She deserves a night to remember, not another regret to add to her collection.

Looking back, I recall the comments she made about the topic, but I assumed she was playing the part of the innocent maiden. Trust me, she wouldn’t be the first woman to do it.

But she’s wrong about one thing. I want her desperately. Her lack of experience isn’t a turnoff, although I will have to rethink my long-term game plan. If anything, I’m far more protective of her than I was, even though I doubt she’s going to engage in much beyond pleasantries for the next few days.

She’s hurt and I’m the reason.

Now, I have to make it right. Somehow.