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.

up at him. “What's this supposed

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

eyes, a little at a loss. "We're not a couple, Joshua. You don't have

"That's exactly why

hesitated, then let out

go back. Too much has

letting in a warm breeze tinged with the scent of orchids. Dusk seeped into the room, the light overhead

the light, casting a shadow over her. He looked down at her, voice rough around the edges. I haven't moved on.

dropped her

He bent down, bracing his arms on either side of

locked on hers

refus

to let her

retreat.

the way he looked at

and magnetic. "Allie,

barely

softly. Orchid scent hung in the air

space between them felt