The Truth Read Online Free

dismissal she intended, and less of the “I don’t know what to say to that” sound she heard. She stood up and took a large swallow of her wine. “There will be no hand holding. We’re not on a date. I agreed to have a meal with you, for the simple purpose of getting you to stop asking.”
    This time, his face broke into a wide smile, and he winked at her.
    “I am only agreeing to take a walk with you because it will get you off of my couch and closer to your car.” She stood up and walked from the room, the sound of his amused laughter followed her until she closed her bedroom door with a snap. She leaned against it and took a couple of deep breaths.
    She needed to place some distance between them. Her body threatened to demolish the last shred of self-preservation she had. Every part of her wanted to melt into him. She couldn’t recall ever wanting a man more. She also knew Grayson was the type of man who could snap a woman’s heart into little pieces, especially hers. She needed to be smart. Her heart wasn’t available and never would be. It was fragile, not strong enough to stand another heartbreak. He was sexy, cocky, and wore a badge. Three major strikes against him.
    Lexie pulled on her jeans along with a pale peach sweater, and took one last deep breath for strength before walking into the living room. To her surprise, he’d put the food away, washed the glasses, wiped her counters, and corked the wine. “You didn’t have to do that. I could have taken care of it later.”
    “It was a few cartons and two glasses.” He tilted his head and creased his brow. “Exactly how long has it been since you’ve had a man in your life, Lexie?”
    “I … I … ” She felt the color rise on her cheeks. “It’s none of your business. And what does that have to do with anything?” she snapped, relieved to have found her voice.
    Ignoring her questions, he grabbed his keys, and handed hers to her. “Ready?”
    • • •
    Grayson watched her as she walked a foot or two ahead of him. Her sandals dangled from her fingers by their straps, her bare feet catching the waves as they rolled onto the beach.
    She was a complicated woman. He knew she was attracted to him. No matter what her mouth said, her body language and her eyes told him the truth. What he didn’t understand was why she continued to keep him at arm’s length. He wanted to get to know her, but she shot him down on every attempt.
    He assumed she’d been hurt in the past. Was it by Ryan’s father? He’d tried to get Jordan to fill in some of the blanks but he’d only say the story with Lexie and Ryan was complicated, and she’d tell him herself when, and if, she was ready.
    Regardless of her past, he wanted a piece of her future. No matter how small. She’d made him come alive again after years of barely existing. A weight lifted from him the minute he’d looked into her surprised eyes. Now, all he had to do was convince her to let him in. He was beginning to think his only way in was by pushing and shoving. He could do that.
    Picking up his pace, he caught up with her, and reached over to grab hold of her hand. As he’d assumed, she instantly began to tug her hand away, trying to break his grip. She stopped and turned to face him, her other hand on her hip, her lips pursed.
    They stood in a silent challenge with each other while the waves lapped at their ankles. His heart began to race. Her eyes grew wide. He took a step closer to her. She took a step back, inhaling a breath. He reached out and pulled her against him, her arms automatically coming to rest on his chest, her sandals leaving particles of sand on his shirt. He wasn’t sure if her intent was to be closer, or to push him away. He lifted his hands and ran them through her hair, never taking his eyes from hers.
    Her expressive eyes showed uncertainty, confusion, and longing. Using gentle pressure against the back of her head, he kept her from bolting. Her eyes fluttered closed and her