Chapter 83: Layla

I’m tempted to run my finger along the bridge of his nose and then hold his nose, cutting off the air. I used to do this when we were kids, and he would wake up gasping for breath. It was hilarious. I’m half laughing as I reach out. His hand rises, and long fingers circle my wrist.

"Don’t even think about it." He speaks with his eyes closed.

"How did you know?" I pull my hand back.

Jared opens one eye. "You’re breathing and laughing all over me." Both eyes are open now, and I can sense him pulling away, retreating from me, and I don’t understand.

My hand flutters to his chest. "I’m going to take a bath." I don’t know how to seduce anyone, so I try again. "Your bathtub is huge."

He grins, and I see a small sparkle of interest. "Do you want me to run a bath for you?"

I’m not sure if my intentions are getting across. "No, I can do that." I roll out of the bed.

"Or I could get Kerry to do it for you," Jared offers.

I wave him off as I walk to the bathroom. "It’s okay."