First-Time Caller (Heartstrings, #1)

by B.K. Borison

You don’t have to be alone to be lonely.

I laugh. “I don’t think you want me in your mouth.”

“Who the fuck made you cry?” I snap.

I’m going to kill that slimy piece of shit.

All for a shitty guy in cropped chinos and boat shoes without socks. I should have known as soon as I stepped foot in the restaurant. He was blond, for god’s sake.

Blonde??? ICK

“Nah, Lucie.” In my dream, he brushes a kiss against my forehead. “I think you’re the magic.”

“Ah, Lucie.” Aiden smiles, his fingers fanning out wide against my back. “I’d know you anywhere.”

“Don’t flirt with me,” I tell him.

He watches me in amusement. “I’ve been flirting with you.”

That half smile again. “I like a woman who can toss me around.”

Lucie shrugs. “I don’t concern myself with the fragile egos of men.” She glances at me. “No offense.”

“Fuck it,” I whisper, and I drag her mouth to mine.

“You said pineapple on pizza is disgusting.” “It is.” “Then why do you have it?” “Because you said it was your favorite,” I admit. “And I want your favorite to be my favorite.”

Love isn’t”—he sighs, a deep, rumbling sound—“love isn’t always sunshine and daisies. Sometimes it’s hospital beds and shaved heads. But I wouldn’t trade any of it. Because all of it is with her.”

“Long-time listener, first-time caller,” he says over the line. There’s a reluctant grin in his voice. It twists his words up at the edges, just like his smile. “I was hoping you could give me some advice.”