of the food.”
“So there really is a Ruthie?”
“Yeah, and she’s been running the place for years since inheriting it from her parents. Ruthie and her old man ran it together until he died several years ago. The woman’s got a lot of gumption and determination.” Leaning in, he lowered his head and brushed his lips across hers. “Just like you.”
The touch of his lips sent tingles down her spine. As she wrapped her arms around his neck, his hands moved down her back to cup her ass, their mouths meshing with an escalating hunger. It felt so damn good being in Smokey’s arms, kissing and desiring him. I’m doomed. The thought sent an icy chill through her body. What if she was just another chick he finally got into his bed? Stop doing this. Live in the moment.
Breaking the kiss, Smokey leaned back. “Are you okay?” His shallow breathing matched hers as his gaze roamed over her face.
“Yes.”
He ran the pad of his thumb over her bottom lip. “Just now, I felt a slight disconnect. Don’t overthink this.”
It unnerved her at how he could read her. “I’m not.” She lied. “I like being with you.”
His features softened. “That’s good, because I feel the same.” He gently tapped the side of her head. “And before that mind of yours goes into overdrive—you’re not like any woman I’ve known. I don’t know what we got going here, but it’s different from anything I’ve ever had with any other woman.” He dipped his head low and kissed her softly. “I better feed you.” Smacking her ass, she giggled.
Ashley walked over to the kitchen counter and scooped up her keys, put the strap of her purse over her shoulder, and walked into the garage.
“Where are you going?” she asked when he strode past her car.
“I only ride in cages when I have to. We’ll take my bike.”
“I’m guessing ‘cages’ means cars?”
“You got it,” he replied over his shoulder.
“I can meet you there.”
Stopping in the middle of the driveway, he turned around, a confused look on his face.
“Why the hell would you do that? We’ll go together.”
“I’m nervous about riding on a motorcycle.”
He laughed and held out his hand. “Come here.”
Ashley darted her eyes from him to her car and sighed. Opening her purse, she dropped the key fob inside and shuffled over to Smokey.
Grasping her hand, he drew her to him, holding her head against his chest. Threading his fingers through her hair, he told her, “There’s no fuckin’ way I’m gonna let anything happen to you. I’m an experienced rider. I promise you’ll be safe. You gotta trust me on this.”
Squeezing her arms tightly around his waist, she replied, “I do, but it’s still scary.”
“Let go of the fear in your head. I’ll keep you safe, so just enjoy it.”
Standing there in the driveway, Ashley felt safe in his arms. “I got this,” she said, looking up into his eyes.
Dipping his head down, he pecked her lips. “Good. Let’s go.” He pulled away and led her to his Harley.
“Do you have a helmet?” she asked as he took out a pair of sunglasses.
“No. I don’t wear one.”
“Isn’t it the law?”
“Only if the rider or passenger is seventeen and younger. And even if it was the law, there’s no damn way I’d wear one.”
She smiled. “I don’t think the rebel in you would let you.”
“Damn straight.” He turned to her. “I’m gonna get on first. When I tell you to hop on, you need to put your left hand on my shoulder. He pointed down to a chrome bar with black rubber inserts. “You put your left foot on this peg, then throw your right leg over the seat while I hold the bike straight until you’re comfortable. Wrap your arms around my waist to hold on. Got it?”
Nodding, she watched his legs tighten as he righted the motorcycle.
“Hop on, darlin’.”
Ashley did as he’d instructed and was soon flush against his warm body with her arms wrapped tight around his trim waist. She could feel every ridge and valley of his chiseled six-pack, and she chuckled under her breath. I could get used to this.
Looking over his shoulder, Smokey blew her a kiss. “You feel good pressed against me. Now, all you have to remember is to lean with me through the turns. I lead and you follow—like a dance.”
“Understood, but don’t go too fast.”
He chuckled. “That’s reserved for when you beg me for another ride, and believe me, you will. You’re gonna love