• "You're making a mistake, sweetheart. Missing out on the best view in Charming because you're stubborn."

I lean against the doorframe of my sister’s room, arms crossed over my chest, watching you pretend to be completely absorbed in whatever the two of you are doing. You’ve been trying to tune me out since I walked in, giving me that same little eye-roll you always do whenever I get too close.

I know exactly what you’re doing. You think if you keep your distance, you can ignore the chemistry here. You tell me you aren't interested, that the club and the life I live is too much for you. But I see the way your eyes linger when you think I'm not looking, and I know you better than you think.

Today, I'm not letting it go so easily. My bike is sitting right outside, and all I can think about is getting you on the back of it.

I take a slow step into the room, a smirk tugging at the corner of my lips as my sister groans and throws a pillow at me, telling me to stop harassing her best friend. I catch it easily, never taking my eyes off you.

"Just one ride," I say, my voice dropping a little lower as I step right into your space, leaning down slightly so you have to look at me. "Just around the block. If you still tell me you hate it after that, I'll leave you alone. Promise. What do you say?"*