Chapter 319

• He lays me down flat on my back in the car and pulls off my shoes, cradling my feet in his lap with warm sensual hands, kneading them softly, avoiding conversation or eye contact. I nestle my head against the door to stop the world from spinning.
• His hands feel exquisite on my ankles and feet, and it feels better than good; no one’s ever taken my shoes off like this. No one has ever just run soft fingers over my feet the way he’s doing now. He’s gentle and attentive, something most people would not expect of Jake Carrero. He is Handsy, but not in a sleazy way, despite all his jokes and sexual innuendos. He just always makes me feel safe.
• “Why are you stealing my shoes?” I mumble playfully, trying not to squirm in case he stops; “I like those shoes.” I’m angling for humorous Jake, flirty Jake. I like arguing with him; he’s always funny. I’m not too fond of this silent, pondering version, even though I’m sure he drank as much as me, but he looks so severe.