The-Sinful-King-By-Claire-Contreras-PDF

“Anyway, I’m glad you like the store. I was a little worried
out there. I didn’t make plans to open it back up because I
figured you should probably take over from here on out.”
“Since you’re leaving.”
“Re-entering society, remember?” I smiled.
“Maybe you can come back for the grand opening.”
“Maybe.” I started walking toward the door. “I’m going
to set up that basket. Let me know if you have any questions
about anything.”
The front door to his villa opened even before I reached it. I
paused, my heart dropping as I looked at him. I’d arrived
earlier than usual because after yesterday’s engagement
announcement I’d hoped I could avoid seeing him. Maybe it
was dumb because like Joss had pointed out, even when we
were both far from this quaint little beach town, I’d see him
everywhere—on the news, in the papers. His Crown might
not extend all the way to London, but the gossip would. Even
without news trailing behind me, he’d be inescapable no
matter where I went because the time I spent with him
would remain a part of me.
“Hey,” he said, brushing a hand through his hair.
“Hey.” I lifted the basket, hoping it would help calm my
nerves, but my shaky hands gave them away nonetheless.
Elias must have noticed, but didn’t comment. I watched
his Adam’s apple bob as he stepped away from the door and
onto the porch, closing the distance between us. He put his
hands just beside mine on the handle of the basket, his
fingers brushing against mine as he did. My pulse leaped. I
let go of the basket as if my hands caught fire and turned
away from him, not giving in to the urge to run, but not
wanting to stay another second in his presence.