An Exceptional Twist Read online

  In the parking lot, Leah pushed the button on her remote to open the back of her van. She pulled her cooler bags out from a hidden compartment and unzipped them. “Put the frozen and refrigerated items in these. I already have ice packs keeping the bags cold.”

  Stefen raised an eyebrow, transferring the things that needed to remain cold into the bags. “You think of everything don't you?”

  Shaking her head, she pursed her lips and sighed. “No, if I thought of everything, I would’ve remembered to bring the bags into the store.” Leah shimmied past him to return the cart, and then hopped into the driver's side.

  On the way to the farmer’s market, she thought about how much her life had changed recently.

  “Are you okay?” Stefen asked. ”You seem down all of a sudden.”

  “Yeah. It just hit me how different my weekends will be now that Abby’s married. We've done everything together since college. It’s just going to be…really weird.”

  I can’t believe I’m having this revelation right now. You’re opening yourself up too much to him. She tried to hide just how much this troubled her as they pulled into a parking space.

  “She isn't dead, Leah,” he reminded her. “Only married. Oh, wait a minute. I guess that's kind of the same thing.” He smirked.

  She gasped, pulling her key out of the ignition. “What? You don't believe in marriage?”

  Wait, this isn’t news.

  “It’s not for me at all.” He shook his head vigorously. ”I can’t imagine being stuck with the same person for the rest of my life. Way too monotonous.” He smiled widely as though this statement was charming.

  Really? Is that what he thought women wanted to hear?

  “Well I'm planning on getting married someday,” she told him defiantly. “I'm just waiting for the right guy. Besides, marriage isn’t being stuck with the same person. It's about constantly wowing the one you’ve chosen so it doesn't get stale. It’s about being with someone who wows you back. It truly is a beautiful thing.” She couldn’t wait for her turn to come and imagined there was a little twinkle in her eye as she spoke.

  ”You do know that Prince Charming is a fairy tale character, don't you?” He snickered.

  What a jerk! Extremely hot, but still a jerk.

  Leah shook her head. “I'm not looking for the perfect guy, Stefen. I know there's no such thing. I just want my perfect guy. He's just as flawed as I am, but we'll love each other in spite of our faults.”

  He rolled his eyes again. Asshole.

  She got out and grabbed her market baskets, not caring at this point if he followed. Once he finally joined her, she handed him one of the woven baskets and allowed him to close the hatch back. A smile involuntarily broke out on her face as they walked up to all the fresh fruits and veggie stands. This was one of her happy places.

  She felt Stefen's eyes on her when she picked up a tomato and smelled it at the cut stem. ”What?” Their eyes met as she sniffed the piece of aromatic fruit.

  ”You’ve smelled everything before putting it in your basket.”

  She lifted a brow, as if to say, and? Then she smiled. ”There’s something magical about the smell of fresh produce. I can imagine what dishes I’ll make just by smelling them.” She bounced a little on the balls of her flip flop-covered feet, not concerned what his opinion was.

  His well-groomed eyebrows raised. “That's weird.”

  ”No, it's not. Here, sniff these.” Handing him a tomato, fresh basil, and a bulb of garlic, she asked, “What do you smell?”

  He shrugged. ”Tomato, basil, and garlic.”

  Yanking them away, she lifted them up to her nose again. Then she closed her eyes, inhaling deeply, similar to the way she’d smelled him just hours before. “I smell bruschetta. I can almost taste it.” Her mouth watered, but she wasn’t sure if it was from the thought of eating bruschetta or from her memory of his scent.

  His loud laugh almost startled her. “Are you for real? I've never met someone who does that.”

  She frowned defensively. “Abby does it, too. We smell everything here, then talk about which dishes we'll make. We've even thought about creating our own garden.” Leah pursed her lips in a pout, regretting it instantly when his eyes landed on her lips.

  Swallowing hard, he spoke directly to her mouth. “How about you come over for dinner tonight? I’ll grill those steaks I just bought, and you can make that bruschetta, so I can taste what you’re talking about?” His eyes met hers once more.

  It was probably a bad idea to spend any more time with him today, but she was determined to prove that her bruschetta would taste killer. As a bonus, she would get to stare at him a little longer. “Okay, but no more calling me odd while I smell my way through this place.” She held her head high. “Deal?”

  ”Deal,” he chuckled.

  Stefen turned the grill on as he waited for Leah. She’d dropped him off hours before, saying that she had to take care of a few things before coming over for dinner.

  There was something about this girl. She was a bit quirky at times, but actually had a personality. He was going to have a hard time moving on to his normal ditzy blondes when he got home. I’ll worry about that when the time comes.

  Their afternoon together was enjoyable. Not the driving around in her van part, but their conversation was easy and comfortable.

  She didn't seem to be expecting anything from him, and he definitely wasn't used to that. Everyone wanted something from him. It seemed like she just honestly enjoyed his company. The flirting didn’t hurt. It was kind of sweet and innocent. He could tell she was no saint, but he didn't mind her playing the role.

  Taking a minute to appreciate his surroundings, Stefen leaned on the chest-high backyard fence. Damn, Caleb lucked out when he bought this house. The ocean view alone was worth the hefty price. Stefen’s apartment overlooked Lake Michigan, but nothing beat a view like this.

  The steaks had been marinating in the fridge for an hour. He headed inside to get them when he heard a knock. Answering the door, Leah gawked unabashedly at his bare chest, and he realized that he’d forgot to put a shirt on after his swim earlier.

  Oh yeah, this girl definitely wants me.

  Those sweet innocent brown eyes met his. “Um...I didn’t use the key, just in case.” Holding up her bag, she added, “I made a rice dish and salad to go with the rest of the food.”

  “Come in.” Stepping aside, he let her pass, unable to take his eyes off of her. As she took the food out of the bag, the aroma hit him. “Wow, that smells delicious. I don't think I've ever drooled over the smell of rice before.”

  “It's my abuelita's recipe.” She smiled fondly. He stared at her, confused, and she explained, “I'm sorry, I mean my Grandmother's recipe.”

  “What's in it?” He’d never been so excited about rice before but, damn, it smelled good.

  “Rice with grilled asparagus, mozzarella cheese and cream cheese.” That sounded like an odd combination no matter how delicious it smelled. She must’ve read his mind, because she added, “Believe me, it's super yummy and great with steak. We usually save it for the holidays. It's that special.” She confidently raised her eyebrows.

  He nodded, then ran his hand through his dark hair. “Well, I'm honored then,” he said in his most charming tone, “that you brought a special family holiday rice dish just for me tonight.”

  She looked away, a blush travelling up from her neck.

  Finally.

  Normally, he could make a girl blush in the first five seconds of meeting her.

  Secretly pleased, he pointed to the large bowl in her hand. “What's in the salad? That looks good, too.”

  She cleared her throat, nervously setting out the different containers. “Oh, this one is Abby's favorite. It has romaine lettuce, feta cheese, scallions, sesame sticks and poppy seed dressing.”

  She chewed on the side of her mouth, and he found himself wanting to do the same thing to her. “Wow, Abby's favorite dish, too? I must have i
mpressed you.” He winked and could’ve sworn he heard her let out the tiniest gasp.

  ”You, sir, are too cocky for your own good,” she shot back.

  ”Oh, you have no idea,” he replied, using his deepest tone. He moved toward her as she pulled the bruschetta out of the bag, but she was too fast, sidestepping him before he got a chance to get close to her.

  She clasped her hands in front of herself and asked, “Can I help you with the grill?”

  He snickered and shook his head before picking up the platter of steaks. “No, I've got this part. Why don't you follow me out though, and we can eat by the pool.”

  He guided her out through the French doors that led to the backyard, watching her as she eyed the pool.

  “I wish I had thought to bring my suit. A swim sounds kind of nice.”

  She blinked hard as though she regretted her words, but it didn't stop him from saying, “I went swimming this afternoon but wouldn't mind going again.” The meat sizzled as it hit the grill, and he watched for her reaction.

  Staring off toward the pool, then subconsciously looking at her chest, Leah said decidedly, “That’s okay, I'd never fit into one of Abby's, and I don’t really want to drive back home to get mine.”

  He followed her gaze and understood. Abby was very large chested and Leah was…not. Normally he was drawn to women with big racks. But Leah’s boobs were perfect for her body.

  I wouldn’t mind seeing them for myself.

  A perfect thought came to him. “It's only us. You don't really need one.” He shrugged, smiling with devilish innocence

  She glared. “Skinny dipping? Really?”

  Stefen bit the inside of his lip to avoid a chuckle. Her words may have said that she was offended, but the fire that lit in her eyes was definitely intrigued.

  Suddenly, he was reminded of his cousin’s warning, and his laughter died in his throat. Shit! He had to fix this. Caleb would kill him if he found out. “Sorry, I didn't mean to offend you. I just thought I'd throw it out there if you were interested.” Hopefully he masked the panic in his voice.

  ”Don’t ask again,” she warned, fists on her hips and daggers shooting out of her almond shaped eyes. She really was insulted, which surprised the hell out of him.

  Damn, I thought she would’ve been all over that.

  He put up a hand. ”Okay, sorry again. Here, have a seat, and I'll go get the rest of the food while the steaks cook.”

  He pulled a chair out for her and she begrudgingly sat down. Going inside, he grabbed a shirt, threw it on, and took the food she brought out to the backyard. He had better watch his step and not push his luck, at least not tonight.

  Stefen placed everything on the rod iron patio table, then checked the steaks. Nice and well done, he thought as he moved them to the top rack to let them rest. Turning the grill off, he headed to the table.

  Seemingly lost in thought, Leah stared off at the ocean view. Following her line of sight, Stefen noticed the sun was setting in the horizon.

  No wonder it’s starting to get a little cooler.

  Stefen pulled his seat back, and Leah began to anxiously fidget with the cutlery as she took a deep breath. “Listen, Stefen, I've had a great time with you and all, but I don’t think we should spend any more time together.”

  Stefen’s eyes widened. “I said I was sorry, Leah. Won't happen again. I'd rather not be stuck in this lifeless town by myself. I have some work that can keep me busy, but I thought we could hang out some more.” He huffed, struggling not to let his annoyance show too much.

  “Lifeless town?” She looked at him, insulted again. “This place is gorgeous, and you should feel privileged to be here. There are plenty of things to see and do.”

  She was irritated. Good. He was getting to her as much as she was getting to him.

  About damn time.

  His eyebrow cocked, challenging her. ”Prove me wrong. Where should we go tomorrow?” The innocent grin with a hint of devil was back. He gave her a moment to think while he plated the steaks and set them down at the table.

  There was a slight crease in her forehead. He could almost see wheels turning in there.

  “I'll think about it,” she said, propping her chin in her hand. “I have to work this week, but maybe next weekend I'll take you to some of our fun spots.”

  ”Fun spots?” Stefen grinned, his frustration easing. “I look forward to it.”

  Leah picked up the phone and put it down several times. She didn’t want to call Stefen. He bugged her. He was conceited. And beautiful…dammit, Leah. You’re not going there.

  Finally, she dialed his number. All week she’d told herself she wasn't going to see him again, yet here she was, listening to the phone ringing.

  He had to lay down that damn challenge. She was a sucker for challenges. Besides, before she left last Sunday, he made a point to get her number, even programming it into his cell, then he had the nerve to call it right then to make sure it was correct.

  He’d looked up at her with his sensual smirk and said, “Now you’ll always have my number.”

  She’d wanted to smack him, but thought better of it.

  “Hello?” A deep sexy voice answered.

  “Hey, Stefen, it’s Leah. Are you busy?” She began to bite her cuticles. Something about him made her nervous.

  “Not at all,” his voice deepened further. “I just dropped Madison off at her grandparents’ house. We saw that new dinosaur flick. What’s up?”

  She heard blankets rustling in the background and an image of him sprawled out over a bed flooded her mind. Oh my.

  Gathering her thoughts, Leah replied, “I'm, uh…at, um…work right now. But I wanted to see if we could, um…get together later?” When he didn’t answer right away, she started to worry. Maybe she shouldn’t have called him. It was a stupid idea. She gripped the phone a little tighter, then rambled on. ”There’s a Spanish-style resort and spa named Escalona a little north of here.”

  “I'm not much of a salsa dancer.” He wasn't going to make this easy for her at all. Damn him.

  She put his own challenge in her tone. “Aren't you up for a little adventure, Mr. Hunter? I thought you wanted to find out what our little ocean town had to offer. Stick with me, I'll show you all the moves you need.”

  Once those words came rolling out, she realized how they sounded. “Um, I mean to salsa dance. All the moves you need to salsa dance.” She hated how breathy her voice sounded and was glad he couldn't see her red face through the phone. It was bad enough that he could hear her stumble over her words.

  Stefen’s irresistible chuckle rumbled through the line. “Okay, I'm game. What time should I pick you up?”

  “I'm shutting down my shop at six, so if we leave my house by seven, then we should be there in plenty of time. I have a wedding to work in the morning and need to be in bed early.” Smacking her forehead, she realized what she just said.

  In bed? Really? Did I just say in bed?

  She could hear his grin through the phone. “See you at seven, then. And I’ll make sure to get you into bed at a decent hour.” He chuckled darkly before hanging up.

  I'm totally screwed.

  Leah swooshed the hangers in her closet back and forth, wondering what she should wear. In the end, she decided on a red backless halter dress that matched perfectly with her strappy ruby-colored heels. Digging through her underwear drawer, she grabbed her favorite pair of red lace panties, then hurried into the bathroom for a quick shower.

  She ran later than she anticipated, given that her last customer didn't leave the shop until almost six-thirty. Ready in record breaking time, she’d just sprayed her perfume when she heard a knock on her door.

  She answered it, and Stefen’s eyes raked down her body. His gaze was unrushed and heated as he scanned upward to meet her eyes.

  “Wow, Leah. You look unbelievable.” His eyes narrowed, taking her in.

  “Thanks.” Flustered by his flattery, she self-consciously tucked a stra
nd of hair behind her ear. “You clean up pretty nicely yourself.”

  And damn did he. It took everything she had not to slide her hands under his dark jacket and run them down the material of his grey button-down shirt.

  “Ready to go?” she said in a rush. Not waiting for his answer, she grabbed her purse and held her breath as she turned to lock the door, knowing his eyes were now checking out how low cut her dress was in the back.

  Glancing over her shoulder, she caught his stare focused on her ass. She smiled and shook her head. Men.

  “What’s the matter?” she teased, happy that she’d finally gotten to him.

  Stefen gulped as he looked up at her face. “Nothing. I just didn’t expect...I don’t know what I expected.” He closed his eyes and shook his head once. “Let’s go.”

  He placed his hand where the dress gathered, leaving his thumb access to rub her bare lower back. Goosebumps broke out on her arms, and she gulped.

  How the hell am I going to get through this evening without throwing myself at him?

  Pulling into the lavish resort, Stefen couldn't help but acknowledge what a classy place it was. Large palm trees lined the circular driveway that lead to what looked like a luxurious mansion you might find in Spain. This was definitely his kind of place.

  When he was home in Chicago, he went to a lot of parties in houses that looked similar to this resort. The only real difference was the ocean in the background. He was beginning to get too attached to that damn ocean.

  Stefen stepped out of the car and glanced at the valet attendant opening Leah's door. That brazen ass had the nerve to gawk at her in front of him. A strange feeling washed over him. He felt possessive.

  Yep, buddy, she’s probably used to being with lowlifes like you, but she's here with me tonight.

  He tossed the keys over to the attendant, putting his arm assertively around her waist as he looked back once to eyeball the minimum-wage employee who was still shamelessly checking her out.

  Once Stefen was done with her, this guy could have a shot if he wanted. But as soon as he thought it, he was instantly pissed off.