“Oh, challenge accepted.” I let out a deep throaty laugh that feels so good to share with her.

I hate what is happening to Harper with her stalker, but I can’t feel sad that we are getting this time to get to know each other in a way that never would have happened otherwise. Let’s be honest, if I had called her either of those names six weeks ago, she would have torn me apart with a barrage of words or slapped me, one or the other.

But the more time we spend together, the more she is opening up to me in small ways. Not anything that she notices, but to me, they are huge steps. If we are ever going to be more than explosive sex and personalities that challenge each other, then it will be the little things that are important. Times like this, just carefree and fun, no superficial personality put on, no stress of what needs to be done, just a gap in time to breathe.

Letting her win this game is going to hurt my reputation, but I don’t care, it will be worth it to see what she asks me.

“Oh, not so spectacular this time. Guess it’s my turn to delve into the deep dark secrets of Mr. Taylor.” There’s pure delight on her face, and I can tell she knows exactly what she wants to ask.

“Bring it on, sweetheart.” I lean one hand on the pinball machine, my ankles crossed.

“Have you ever been in love?” And her face softens, as she knows she has asked something hard.

“Shit, you certainly aren’t wasting your win, are you?” I look at her, while in my head, so many words are rushing around on how to answer that.

I want to say I think I’m getting there, but that is not the answer she will want, and to be honest, not something I’m ready to share yet… with anyone.

“No.” It’s a simple as that.

“What, just one word? I think you owe me a better answer than that.” And she’s right, but how do I describe what I mean?

I take a moment before finally starting to talk.