Bookstore Barbie (Magnolia Ridge #1) - Alexa Riley Page 0,4

marked as clearance. “I’ll take these too.”

I slide the pile of books closer to her as if showing her my offerings will somehow make the look of sadness on her face go away. Her eyes widen at the pile as if just now seeing them and she blinks a few times. I grab the ones that other dipshit left behind into my pile.

She looks up to me then looks away quickly. “Thank you for that. I wasn’t sure what to say to him, but I appreciate you stepping in.” She clears her throat and goes about scanning the books.

“Don’t worry about it.” I see the total on the register and I pull out a hundred-dollar bill.

“Oh, I, uh, don’t have that kind of change.” Her cheeks turn the color of her lips and I watch as her straight white teeth sink into them nervously.

“Keep it. I cost you a sale.” I nod over my shoulder to where the guy left and she starts waving her hand.

“No, I can’t. Seriously, give me a second and I’ll go find some. I live right above here and I’m sure I’ve got something socked away.”

I reach out and put my hand on top of hers. “Keep it. I’ll be back.”

Goddamn if she doesn’t smile so big those dimples come back out again. Those two little indentions have something stirring inside me and I don’t know what to do about it. I grab the bag of books off the counter and make myself walk away. She’s already had one guy try to get in her pants tonight and no doubt she’s not ready for another.

“Wait, what about Friday?” she calls out to my back and I turn just as I’m about to walk out of the door.

“I’ll see you then.” I wink at her, then pull my hood over my head as I trudge out into the rain.

Chapter Three

Barbie

“You’re looking cute.” Kayla pushes herself onto the checkout counter, making herself right at home. I move my books out of her way so she doesn't knock them on the floor. I don't have long until I have to close up for the night.

“Thanks.” I smooth the front of my skirt down. I haven't worn it in forever because there was never a reason. “Where have you been?” I haven't seen her for a few days, but that’s how Kayla operates. She’s here one second and gone the next. My eyes flick to the front door. I didn't hear the bell go off when she came in. It might be broken.

“Don’t change the subject. Why are you all dressed up?”

“Maybe I want to look nice.”

“You’ve got makeup on.”

“It’s just lip gloss and mascara.” I’m terrible at doing my makeup and Kayla might as well be a professional. I think it has to do with her wicked art skills. I’m lucky I’ve got good skin and don’t have to wear any for the most part.

“Give it up.” She pushes down the front of my book to look at what I’m reading.

I blush, not because I’m reading a steamy romance, but because I’m reading a story about a man who falls in love with an adorable bookstore owner. Maybe it’s wishful thinking, but when I came across it this morning I couldn't help but peek inside, which led to me reading most of it in one day. If we hadn't been so busy today I would have already finished it.

“I have a date,” I finally admit.

I haven't been on a date in forever, and the last time I tried, it ended terribly. I swear I always end up trapped with the worst men. Lately I’ve been sticking to my bookstore and it’s filled the time just fine. That was until the mystery hero walked in my shop. Now I can’t get him off my mind.

“A date! With who?” she gasps. “I’ve lived in this place my whole life and I know every single person, so you better spill it.”

“I don’t know his name.” I cover my face with my hands.

I was too distracted by other things to think about something like that. The man was built like a truck with his wide size and hulking arms and legs. He reminded me of Paul Bunyan with his beard and how he towered over me. I’m just thankful he sent Mr. Cocky running for the hills. That guy wasn't even the good kind of cocky, the kind that knows what he’s doing and is confident in himself. He was straight-up full