Page 109 of One Bad Idea

What was that?A hint that nothing had happened?

It sure sounded that way.

I murmured, "Oh. Well, uh, that's good." Stupidly, I added, "It was just one of those weeks, that's all."

His gaze warmed. "Yeah, well, your bossisan asshole."

Something in his eyes made my stomach flutter, and I heard myself say, "Notallthe time."

He gave a quiet scoff. "That's whatyouthink."

We were still staring into each other's eyes, even as we continued to move with the music. The whole time, I was obnoxiously aware that practically everyone was watching, waiting no doubt for us to be done already, so they could return to the regular music.

I couldn’t say that I blamed them. This was, after all, not a country music place, which led me to ask a question of my own. "How'd you get him to do that?"

"Who?" he asked.

"The D.J. How'd you get him to play this song?"

"I just told him to play something classic country. It wasn't hard."

"Oh, really?" I laughed. "I doubt everyone agrees. You realize they're all staring, right?"

"They're not staring atme."

"Sorry, what?"

"They're staring atyou."

I almost laughed. "Oh yeah? Why's that?"

His gaze grew a shade warmer. "Maybe they can't help it."

Chapter 41

I felt myself swallow. That soundedalmostlike a compliment. But this was Jaden Bishop. He didn't compliment anyone, at least not thatI'dever heard.

I tried to think.Had he ever said anything nice to me before?

No.

He hadn't.

Not really.

And yet, a little voice in my head reminded me that he haddonea few nice things.Surely that was more important, right?

I'd never been one for flowery words or fake compliments. All of my life, I'd appreciatedotherthings – things like loyalty, honesty, and courage.

At a sudden realization, I almost wanted to snicker. It took an awful lot of courage to be out here alone while everyone watched.

Or maybe that was just me. Maybe Jaden truly didn't care what anyone thought. It certainly would fit. After all, he sure acted that way.

Still, itdidmake me wonder something. I asked, "So how, exactly, did you get the D.J. to do it? And don't say you just asked, because ifI'dasked, he would've laughed in my face."

"Yeah, but I didn't ask."

"Sorry, what?"