Victor’s gaze softens as it meets mine, his voice dropping to something that almost feels sincere. “Well, I’ve been asking myself the same question since the day we met. What do you say, Kerry? Are we dating?”

The crowd leans in, practically holding their breath. “Kerry don’t make us call your parents! You better answer that fine man.” Someone teases, laughter rippling through the room.

In any other situation, I’d scream hell no! But seeing Cory’s deflated ego gives me a wicked sense of satisfaction.

“Yes,” I say boldly, relishing the energy shift. “We’re dating. We’ve been seeing each other quietly for a few months because privacy’s hard to come by in this town.”

Effortlessly playing along, Victor slips his arm from around my waist. He lifts my hand, pressing a soft kiss to my knuckles. The warmth of his lips sends a jolt straight to my core.

Damn him.

“I’m looking forward to spending the rest of the evening in public, exploring this charming town with you.” He announces for all to hear.

Before we leave, he throws a cocky nod at Cory. “Nice meeting you, Superintendent.”

Hand in hand, Vic and I step out of Izzy’s Flower Shop, but as soon as we’re out of sight, I yank my hand away and shove his chest. He’s unyielding, a solid mass that doesn’t budge, which somehow manages to both irritate me and slightly turn me on.

“Are you out of your mind? Claiming we’re dating? I only wanted to knock my ex off his high horse! Not be in a whole relationship! The town isn’t gonna let this go. They know and remember everything. There’s gonna be pictures of us on our neighborhood social media page!”

His playful grin wanes. “I was just following your lead, Kerry. Didn’t think it was a big deal.” He shrugs.

“Well, it is a big deal!” I snap, throwing my hands in the air. “And what’s this about you not being rich? You lied to me.”

His smirk returns, devilish and teasing. “Does that make you want me now? Besides…” He steps closer, his heat rolling off him like a challenge. Leaning in even more with his breath warm against my temple, he clarifies, “I’m not rich…I’m wealthy.”

A wave of heat surges through me. Holy shit, I’m unraveling. Stand up straight. This rich jerk will not make me melt in his palms, but suddenly, my resolve falters, causing me to panic.

“Oh no, you’re wealthy and ridiculously handsome! I bet Cory’s pissed. He’s gonna terrorize you. You have no idea the lengths he’ll go to make your life a living hell.”