One Hot Summer Anthology Read Free

who’d put him through the ringer, he’d needed to get away. Life had been serene ever since. Peaceful was okay, but it could also be boring. The woman he sat across the table from could definitely spice things up.
                  “No, that’s not all. Do you have plans for dinner tonight?”
                  She gaped at him. “Excuse me?”
                  “I’m asking you if you would like to go to dinner.”
                  “Why?”
                  He chuckled. “Because that’s usually what two people who are attracted to each other do.”
                  “Who says I’m attracted to you?”
                  He inclined his head toward their hands on the table. She gasped then snatched her hand from underneath his.
                  “Look, Carson, I know life is all fun and games for you, but I’m actually here in Myrtle for a reason. A very important reason, so I don’t have time to waste. I have a lot to figure out in a short amount of time.”
                  He leaned back in his chair. “If I insinuated your time is not valuable that definitely wasn’t my intention. I assure you, my schedule is pretty tight as well so I’d never show a lack of appreciation for another person’s.”
                  She sighed, her shoulders drooping. “I know this may sound cliché, but this just isn’t a good time for me. I’m going through a lot right now. I would love to say more, but it’s personal and I don’t feel comfortable sharing it.”
                  “I respect your feelings on the subject. However, I have to admit I’m sorely disappointed I won’t have the opportunity to get to know you better. I hope you get your problem worked out. Just know if you ever need an ear to bend, I’m here. Or you ever want to stop in for lunch, you’re welcome to do so anytime and it’s on me.”
                  The corner of her mouth twitched, the closest he’d ever come to seeing her smile.
                  “That’s kind of you. I appreciate the offer. Now, I really must be going. Thank you again for lunch.”
                  Carson winked at her and stood as she gathered her tote bag. “Anytime.”
                  Imani rushed from the restaurant as if hell hounds were chasing her, but her brisk pace still didn’t tone down the natural sway of her lush hips. She was a walking wet dream and he didn’t think she had the slightest idea.
                  “Wow, big brother, I don’t think I’ve ever seen a woman in such a rush to get out of your presence.”
                  He frowned at his sister as she came strolling up. “You aren’t funny, Kallie.”
                  “Wasn’t trying to be. What’s the deal with her?”
                  “I don’t know. I asked, but she didn’t want to tell. I didn’t push.”
                  His younger sister’s brows rose high on her forehead. “Really?”
                  “Believe me, after what I went through with Misty, I know what it feels like to not want to talk about something. I gave her an open invite to the restaurant for lunch and to talk. So any time she comes in her meal is always on the house, in the event I’m not here.”
                  “Do you think she’s going through a bad divorce or breakup?”
                  “Divorce? No. She doesn’t have a line on her finger indicating she’s ever worn a ring. I can’t be too certain of a breakup, but I don’t think that’s it either.”
                  “That sucks because she seems really nice.”
                  “I agree.”
                  “Do you think she’s going to take you up on your offer?”
                  “Who knows? What matters is I put it