Page 29 of Kayla's List

“So, I made this list…”

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ANDERSON

As Kayla explainsher “things to accomplish before thirty” list, an idea comes into mind about how I can spend more time getting to know her. Even though she hasn’t been as skittish this past weekend, I still don’t want to scare her off.

Although I can’t explain why my feelings for her are so intense, I won’t try to downplay how I feel either. I’m an all or nothing type of guy, and I don’t see me changing in the foreseeable future.

Once Kayla finishes her explanation, I nod, rubbing my chin. “I can help you with that.”

“Wait. What?” Kayla frowns with a shake of her head. Her curly hair bounces with the movement.

“I’ll help you with your list. Let me see it.”

“Ummm, but why?” Kayla asks. Her eyes are narrowed, and her plump lips are pursed. I’m not sure if she’s confused or suspicious of my motives. Either way, she’ll give in. I always get my way.

“Because I love the idea and I want to help.”

“I don’t think that’s a good idea. I mean—”

“Of course, it is. Don’t think so much, Kay.”

After a brief moment, Kayla nods and picks up her phone. I’m not sure what she’s thinking, but I’m glad she seems to be relenting to my request to help her or mydemand, whatever.

Kayla scrolls for a second and then hands me her phone. I read the list, and it is some general things that most people want to do before they die, but then I get to some of the riskier numbers.“#9. Go to a strip club.”

I pause for a second and look at her with a raised eyebrow. She looks away in embarrassment, and I chuckle. I’m not judging her. It’s just hard to believe that a twenty-nine-year-old has never been to a strip club before.

I keep reading, and I frown becauseof“#12. Kiss a stranger”has been marked through. I figure that was the asshole from last night. I still wish I could’ve beaten his ass. Getting back on track, I continue reading the list.

Once I’m finished, I’m amazed at how inexperienced Kayla is. She gave off the naïve vibe, but according to her list, she’s got a lot of living to do. And I’m just the man to help her do it.

“Yeah, doll face. Not only will I help you with this, let’s cross a few of these off right now!”

I pull Kayla toward the bar located in the back of the VIP section. Her flip-flops slap against the concrete as her short legs try to keep up with my long strides. Once we reach the bar, I pick her up and place her on the top.

“Anderson!” Kayla squeals.

I chuckle. “Be still, so you won’t slip,” I say, holding on to her ample hips. The feel of her soft body is distracting me, but I shake it off.

I do want to help her with her list. And maybe while doing so, she’ll begin to trust me.

“Don’t let me fall,” Kayla says with wide brown eyes as she looks at me.

“Never,” I respond with conviction.

I rub my hand down her cheek and to the back of her neck. I never break eye contact with her. My bright blue eyes stare at her, willing her to feel the intense connection that I do. I pull her face toward mine inch by aching inch.

“I’m going to kiss you now.” I raise an eyebrow, asking nonverbally if she has any objections.

“Don’t talk about it, be about it.” Kayla’s sassy reply shocks me and turns me on.

I devour her lips, sucking and biting them until she gasps, and I take advantage by slipping my eager tongue inside her mouth. Kayla doesn’t pull back like I thought she might. Instead, she tangles her tongue with mine and draws my head closer to her face.

Kayla’s small hand tugs the back of my hair roughly, and I growl into her mouth.Fuck, this woman is sexy!

“Uhhum…” Someone clears their throat, and I reluctantly pull away.