TWISTED FATE (Twisted Path Book 1)

Chapter 12

Shane

Like the love-smitten fool I am, I take the steps up to her apartment two at a time, fully aware of the ridiculous smile I can't keep off my face. I still can't believe she said yes to giving us a chance! A girl like Becca falling for someone like me, especially when just a week ago I didn't think I had a shot, it's incredible. That she feels that same indomitable pull that's had me tied up in knots since I saw her that first day of school is as much a relief as it is unbelievable. And that she thinks I'm the one who's too good for her? Downright insane, considering she's the paragon of all things beautiful.

Knocking on her door, I wait with bated breath, eager to see her again. To touch her. To run my fingers through that silky brown hair as I lean down to taste that sensuous mouth I can't get enough of. Shaking my head, I laugh at the ridiculousness of it all. As the only son of Edward Montgomery, I was trained since birth to be deliberate in my thoughts and actions. Taught to not make a move, a single decision, without weighing the consequences and ensuring the outcome benefited not only me but the family name.

"Think with your head, not with your heart." My father's words run through my mind just as the door to her apartment opens and I'm greeted by the sight of those hazel eyes that convey her every emotion and those lips that can't help but utter her every thought. For the first time in a long while, both my mind and heart are in agreement. Father may not see things my way at first, but I'm certain that over time I can convince him I'll be a better man because of her.

"Shane? What are you doing here?"

"I'm here to see my girlfriend. Word is she's got this big presentation due tomorrow." I step closer, leaning my arms against the door frame, and smile down at her. "Figured I'd show up tonight to feed her dinner and offer my services as a mock audience member. In short, I'm here for you." When she drops her eyes, her cheeks turn a bright shade of pink. "Will you let me in, pretty girl?"

Like she's only now noticed she's blocking my path, she takes a step back. Shutting the door behind me, I lock it. When I turn, I find her still standing there, arms wrapped around herself, looking as uncertain as ever.

"Come here," I put my arms out, and like she can't help it, she sinks into my embrace. God, I'll never tire of this. Inhaling deeply, I take in her fresh, fruity scent. A mixture of cherries, berries, and vanilla. The need to taste her is so damn overwhelming, but I settle for a kiss on the top of her head.

"What is it? Are you upset I'm here?"

"It's not that, I just... you've already done so much for me, Shane. I-I'm not used to this."

"Not used to what? Having someone look out for you? Taking care of you?"

"Yes!" She pulls back and looks up at me with that fire and tenacity she so easily shows the rest of the world, yet somehow struggles to maintain around me. "I've set my life up, so I don't need anyone, Shane. I can take care of myself. I've proven it time and time again since moving out of my aunt and uncle's house four months ago."

Cupping the sides of her face, I douse the flames of her frustration with a kiss that sets my heart ablaze. As always, she rewards me with that sexy little gasp that's like a prelude to the passion that ignites between us the instant we touch. Tangling my fingers into the back of her hair, I tilt her head up, ready to deepen the kiss, but before I get the chance, her tongue curls around mine in a move that makes my knees go weak. Damn, she can kiss. While innocent on the outside, there's a sexy siren lurking within her, and I'm the helpless fool, desperate and willing to sink under her spell if only to extend the seconds she allows us to come together like this.

With a pained groan, I bring the kiss to an end. As much as I want more—so much more—this is not why I'm here. "I know you can take care of yourself, pretty girl. You're strong. Driven. Capable. A damn good kisser," I smile wide when that blush I love so much travels up from her neck to her cheeks. "I'm not here because you need my help, but because I want to be there for you. Let me do this, Becca. Let me take care of you the only way I know how."