Page 35 of The Baby Bargain

Ariel steps inside.

Light surrounds her like a halo. Casts highlights off her dark hair, her pale skin, her snug black dress.

God damn, that thing hugs her waist like it was made for it.

And it's short. Shows off her strong legs.

I want to push her on the counter and whisperyou wearing black under that too?

That's so fucking out of the question.

And it's ridiculous. I haven't wanted to fuck a woman since Grace. Not like this. Not with my entire fucking body.

"Thanks." Forest motions to his sister.

My stomach drops. He knows something. Something he shouldn't. What the fuck am I going to say?Listen, I know I'm helping your sister get pregnant, but it's not like I'm the one doing it. Though, for some reason, I can't stop thinking about that. Which is probably worse. That I woke up to sticky sheets and an incredibly vivid dream about her sprawled under me.

"For helping with her project."

"Right."

He looks at me like he knows I'm lying, but he doesn't press the subject. "She can be a lot."

"She's a sweet kid."

"If she says anything about Phil…"

I nod. "Of course."

"She thought he was the one." His eyes drift to the window. For a moment, he stares at the sky, lost in a memory of the girl who broke his heart. Then he waves hello to his sister.

"I'll let you know."

Of course, I'm not going to tell him about our plan, so I can't really say I'm fulfilling my duties as a friend.

* * *

"This isn't necessary."Ariel holds her hand over her eyes. Looks up at the sky like it's a thing of beauty and wonder. "The office—"

"With your brother ten feet away?"

"In the zone." Her gaze shifts to the bright white sidewalk.

"Still."

"I never saw you as…" A laugh spill from her lips. "Never mind."

"Never mind?" I keep pace with her. She walks with purpose. Like she doesn't have a second to waste. I guess she doesn't. But, fuck, there's something about this—

The two of us walking to a coffee shop on a bright, clear day.

The sun bouncing off her dark hair.

The smile forming on her red lips. The same soft red. From some kind of gloss. Her lips are shiny. Kissable as fuck.

Not that it matters.

I don't care that Ariel has perfect tits, a cute ass, soft lips.