Girl Get Rid Of That Jerk by Melissa Johns

Joshua hauled over three more boxes and stacked them on the table in front of Allison.

Allison gaped at the growing pile. "Seriously? There's still more? Aren't we only working on two cases? That's five boxes of stuff now."

Joshua's lips curled into a small, knowing smile, his eyes warm with amusement. His voice was gentle. "These aren't case files. Why don't you open them and see?"

She shot him a look, half suspicious, half curious, and leaned over to tear at the

tape.

The boxes were sealed tight, with shipping labels plastered on top-definitely deliveries.

Joshua offered her a box cutter, all smooth and casual.

"A delivery?" Allison echoed, brow furrowed. "What is this?"

"Just open it," he said, nodding at the box.

She sliced open the first one. Inside sat a sleek, designer box, the logo practically glowing. She got it instantly.

Lifting the lid, she found a flawless white handbag nestled in tissue paper.

looked up at him. “What's this

with a smile. "Today's May 20th-back home, couples celebrate 520 like

a loss. "We're not a couple, Joshua. You don't have to buy me

his pockets, a lazy grin on his face. "That's exactly why I should. If I want

then let out a quiet

meeting his eyes, her voice serious, "we can't go back. Too much has happened.

letting in a warm breeze tinged with the scent of orchids. Dusk

at her, voice rough around the edges. I haven't moved on. I've been right here waiting

her gaze, falling

down, bracing his arms on either side of her, boxing her in, his

locked on hers

refus

to let her

retreat.

the way he looked at her,

"Allie, let's try again.

barely above a whisper. "Joshua,

breeze, then settled softly. Orchid scent hung in the air

space between them