Page 99 of The Renegade Billionaire

“That might’ve been our fault. We were kids helping raise a kid, but we did the best we could.” Braxton’s expression is full of concern.

“He’s a good kid,” I say gently. “And sure, mean kids exist everywhere, but I can assure you, that won’t happen at the Chug.That space is mine, and I’ve worked hard to keep it with the theme of our town.”

Grey scrutinizes me for long seconds, then he blinks and nods. “Thank you. It’ll be good for him to get out.”

“Anytime. Sage made breakfast—it’s in the oven. I’m going to get ready for the day. I’ll see you boys later.”

I make it to the stairs before hands at my waist pull me to a stop.

Braxton slowly turns me. Standing two steps above him brings us eye to eye. He doesn’t speak, and I attempt not to breathe, morning breath and all. But when he leans in, thoughts of toothpaste slip my mind. His lips are gentle but demanding against my own, and my body releases tension when he cradles my face.

The kiss is far too short for my liking, but when he rests his forehead against mine, it feels more intimate than the kiss.

“Thank you for being so understanding. It’s been a long time since we’ve let anyone into our lives. It won’t be easy for them—we haven’t had much luck with trusting people.”

“Me either, but I meant what I said. Sage is a good kid—I’d never let anyone hurt him.”

He nods and swipes my nose with the side of his. “I know.”

“Ah, thank you,” I say when he steps back.

He tilts his head as though he’s confused. “For what?”

“The kiss?” My face flames with embarrassment.

His eyes light up brighter than the stars. “No, sunshine, thank you, because I’d very much enjoy doing it again. And again.”

I reach for the elastic around my wrist and have to settle for squeezing it when I remember I left the elastic on my nightstand. “Is that a good idea though? With everything going on and you leaving in March. It seems as though maybe we’re setting ourselves up for…for something not great.”

He stares at me full of kindness and a hope I haven’t experienced in years. “I don’t know what the future holds, but I do know Ace wanted me to be happy, and I am for the first time in a very long time. That’s not something I can just give up on.”

I bite my lip because it’s neither a declaration nor an explanation of what we’re doing.

“Right,” I manage because what the heck do I say? “I’m going to get ready.”

“I want to take you on a date. A real date.”

I miss the next stair and fall to my knees.

“Jesus,” he says, taking two stairs at a time to check my kneecaps. “It’s just a date, sunshine. I don’t need you on your knees for me…yet.”

My chin literally unhinges as every piece of my brain short-circuits.

Is Braxton Reyes a dirty talker?

“What happened? You okay, Mads?” Pops asks, deflating our moment like a sad clown balloon.

“Yup. Just tripped. I’m taking Sage to work with me today. You, ah, stay out of trouble, okay?” I hop up and take the remaining stairs two at a time.

Air. I need air.

I don’t need you on your knees for me…yet.

Ovaries exploding, nipples pebbling, thighs clenching.

My libido is all in for a date with Braxton. But can my battered heart handle it?

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