Neat (Becker Brothers, #2)

by Kandi Steiner

“I see a woman who isn’t afraid of anything,” I said, searching her eyes with my own. “I see an artist with heart and passion, and talent that she’s so modest about that it somehow makes it even more impressive. I see a business owner with hustle and drive, with a dream that has no other option but to come true with her in the driver seat.” I swallowed, watching her eyes widen, her lips soften until they parted slightly. “I see an intelligent woman, who had to grow up faster than she should have, but who handled it with grace. I see strength, and thoughtfulness, and care. I see someone who doesn’t stand for being walked on, who refuses to follow the stream just because someone tells her it’s what she’s expected to do. I see a voyageur, someone who makes her own path, her own journey, and who gives off a light that draws everyone around her in like moths to a flame.” “Logan…” “And I see someone who fights for justice, and who learns before she judges.”

“I see the first woman to steal my heart, and the only woman I ever want to keep it.”

“I… uh…” Logan held up the square, one-inch thick box in his hand, bringing me back to the moment with him. “I got you something else.” “Anal beads?” Logan barked out a laugh, shaking off the tension that had been hanging over us like a cloud. “Not exactly, although now I kind of wish I had.”

I wasn’t the only one who watched Logan for the next hour as he talked with families and couples and kids, showing them the different stations of the studio just like I would have if it were me talking to them. He handed out brochures, event schedules, showed pieces of my art on the walls and spoke of my education like he’d been the one to give it to me. Logan treated that grand opening like it was his own.

Her face was makeup-free now, blue eyes tired, but shining, and I thought back to a passing thought I’d had, how I’d wished to see her without her eyes lined, her lips painted, her lashes slicked with mascara. She was somehow even more beautiful, and I wasn’t even slightly surprised. I think I’d always known.