Page 9 of Igniting Sparks

And that realization makes me even more protective of the man.

I glide a hand along Braden’s chest, smiling up at him.Another thing I love? He’s taller than me and trust me, when you’re 5’9”, that’s not an easy accomplishment.

“Braden is the most amazing artist. You should see his animal designs. He did this one of a fox that is truly spectacular.”

“That’s one of my favorites, too.” His brows raise, seemingly surprised that I’m familiar with his work.

Braden, I know all the little details about you.

“So, you two are getting married?” Aunt Bitsy pinches the bridge of her nose, no doubt replaying the horror she felt when my mother announced her love for a mechanic.

Here’s what Bitsy doesn’t know. Braden is ridiculously smart and a great reader of people. He knows exactly what my aunt is trying to do, and he’ll be damned if she gets away with it.

She wants a show. He’ll give her one.

“That’s the plan. Unless she changes her mind, of course.” Braden squeezes my fingers and shoots me a crooked grin. “I have to prep for a client. Do you think we shocked your family enough for one morning?”

I bite back a laugh. “I’m sure they’re reeling.”

Braden offers my aunt and cousin a mock salute. “Nice meeting you two.”

Then he leans over and kisses my mom on the cheek. “Always a pleasure seeing you.” He stands and tilts my chin up with his finger. “And you, I’ll see tonight, okay?”

“Absolutely.”

Mischief dances in his eyes as he steals a quick kiss from my mouth. “You do not play fair.”

I watch him stroll out of One More Page, biting my lip as he blows me a kiss from the doorway.

Talk about an Oscar worthy performance.

One thing is for certain. Braden Hammond would be the world’s most perfect fiancé.

Too bad he isn’t mine in reality.

Vanessa drums her nails on the table and shakes her head. No doubt myfiancéhas thrown a kink in her plans. “Cute, Mina. Is this your pathetic attempt to snag the dance studio?”

“No. This is me introducing my fiancé to my family. Can’t wait to meet Mr. Wall Street.” I fix Vanessa with a stony gaze. “Does he enjoy line dancing?”

It’s then my cousin realizes I’m on to her. Her face blanches beneath her spray tan as she squirms in her seat, fighting to regain the upper hand.

Sorry cousin, this round goes to me.

“Line dancing?” My aunt asks, her lips pursed in a thin line.

“Inside joke,” Vanessa mumbles.

I slide into a vacant chair and rest my chin on my hands. “So, what do you two think of Braden?”

“He’s… interesting. Colorful.”

Code for too trashy for Bitsy’s liking.

But I don’t argue with her. Instead, I lean into it. “You’re not kidding. Braden is amazing.”

Bitsy tosses down her napkin, her expression withering. “He’s a tattoo artist.”

Ori sets down the long-forgotten cappuccinos and muffins with a huff. Seems she overheard my aunt’s less-than-stellar description of Braden and stands poised to enter the conversation. “Braden makes a great living. Loves what he does. Owns a home. I don’t see a problem here.”