When You're Mine - Layla Hagen Page 0,18

on my behalf,” she said as I reached for the handle. “You can’t park here.”

“I know.”

“Thanks for dropping me off. And I didn’t say even one inappropriate thing. I’m so proud of myself.”

She turned to look in the back, and I did the same. The dog must have fallen asleep a while ago because he’d been silent.

Getting out of the car, I went over to open the door for her. I was close enough that when she got out, I could smell her perfume, a mix of flowers and spices. I couldn’t name a single one of them, but the result was delicious.

“Mel?”

“Hmm?”

“Are you going to have a glass of wine tonight?”

“Probably. Why?”

“Keep your phone nearby.”

“Why would I do that? It proved to be a dangerous combo last time. You have an interesting effect on me.”

“Do I? You convinced me to take home a dog. I haven’t talked you into anything outrageous. Yet.”

“I like that ‘yet.’ So confident.”

“Text me when you get home,” I said.

She threw her head back, laughing hard as she turned around, heading to the station. But I didn’t miss her blush.

Chapter Seven

Mel

I arrived home very late that evening. I spent a few hours with Dad, watching America’s Got Talent and hearing about the newest gossip in his online book club. I had mad respect for my daddy. He’d practically had to start from zero after his stroke. He was the strongest person I knew.

I’d eaten steamed vegetables and fish with him, but by the time I got home, I was still a bit hungry. I always had cheese in the fridge—and, of course, wine. I blushed, remembering Dylan’s request to keep my phone nearby. The man was cocky, but I liked it. I ate two slices of cheese, then went outside onto my balcony with a wineglass and my AirPods. I had a date with a steamy audiobook. This was the same dangerous combination that had led to sending Dylan a flirty text last time.

I shouldn’t do it again, but I couldn’t wait for his reaction. He’d surprised me in so many ways today, from the fact that he’d thought about gifting Isabelle a dog to taking the puppy home with him.

I relaxed in my armchair, looking out at the sky. It was dark, but I’d lit a lot of citronella-scented candles around me. I sent him a picture of my glass of wine and a grinning emoji. He replied in less than a minute.

Dylan: I was waiting for your text.

Mel: Were you now? Why?

Dylan: Last time was unexpected.

Mel: How is the puppy behaving? Did you name him?

Dylan: I want Isabelle to do it. Don’t want him to get used to a name. He’s asleep. How is your dad?

Mel: Great. We watched a talent show together. He loves them.

Dylan: I’ve said it before, but you really are amazing.

Mel: I haven’t had enough wine to be flirty.

Dylan: I can wait. I’m patient.

I laughed, pondering what to text him back. My pulse was insanely fast because every instinct told me not to do this, yet I couldn’t help myself. Isabelle had practically warned me that Dylan wasn’t looking for anything serious, but somehow things didn’t add up. He was so caring with his family and even that puppy! He asked how Dad was doing. But then again, I wasn’t an expert on guys or I wouldn’t have fallen for Elliot, my shitty ex. And the few guys I dated before him were equally as disappointing in one way or another.

Mel: Hmm. I think tonight I’ll turn in early. Wine flirtiness only happens under specific circumstances.

Dylan: Such as? I have to know so I can replicate them.

I laughed again, pondering his question. He made me laugh so easily. It was surreal. I yawned, getting up from my chair, and headed inside. I poured the rest of my wine down the drain before replying.

Mel: I’m not sure, honestly.

Dylan: Come shopping with me tomorrow. The list reads like hieroglyphics.

Holy shit, he was creative, and I wanted to give him all the points for this, but first I needed to tease him a little.

Mel: Your case isn’t compelling. I think any pet shop sales assistant will know what to give you.

He didn’t text back but called me instead.

“You thought your case would be more convincing if we talk?”

“Much more.”

I grinned just because I heard his voice.

“Let’s hear it.”

“You don’t want me to buy the wrong things, do you? The puppy’s going to be the one suffering if I do.” His voice was