Blank Canvas: Artist Duet #1 (Bay Area Duet Series Book 7) by Persephone Autumn

Author:Persephone Autumn [Autumn, Persephone]
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9781951477288
Publisher: Between Words Publishing LLC
Published: 2022-09-19T18:30:00+00:00

FOURTEEN

DEVLYN

I must be having an out-of-body experience. It’s the only logical explanation as to why I have practically erased the line between me and Shelly.

As often as I tell myself we are just friends, that we will only be friends, my actions and thoughts and feelings toward Shelly supersede that of a friend. I am a walking contradiction. Saying and doing things more like a lover than a friend. The subtle touches that come off as normal, but are far from it. The whispered words close to her ear as I inhale her intoxicating scent. The constant need to be closer to her, to feel her warmth and weight.

Worst of all, I don’t stop myself.

I no longer want to stop myself.

“Am I underdressed?” Shelly asks as we pull up to the restaurant.

I stare out the windshield at the glass-front brick structure. The restaurant gives off fine dining vibes, but is quite casual. Online reviews raved over the food, atmosphere, and service. I studied the menu long enough to learn it had decent variety. So I set a reservation.

“You look great. The website didn’t mention dress, so I wouldn’t worry.”

She laughs under her breath. “Easy for you.”

And I wonder what she means. Why would it be easy for me and not her? If anything, Shelly outshines everyone. Me? I’m the scrawny, quirky guy at her side. The person everyone will look past to glimpse her.

I park the car then jog to the passenger door to help her out. Not that she needs help. Shelly is a strong woman. Capable of standing tall on her own.

But having her at my side and on my arm tonight was a new, unfamiliar high. Something I never expected. Something I want more of. Her warm hand wrapped around my bicep, her eyes on my art. Nothing has ever felt so right and perfect and exhilarating.

Am I walking a dangerous line? Yes. I have never been on a slope this slippery. Do I care? At the moment, no. I’d tread the steepest incline for her.

When was the last time I felt a connection like this? When was the last time someone wanted me? It had been too long. Scary as it is, I crave Shelly. More than my next breath.

Instead of fearing what may happen, I offer my arm once more. Lock onto my favorite constellation and wait for her acceptance. And she does not disappoint. I don’t think it’s possible for Shelly to ever disappoint. At least not me. She hooks her arm with mine, wraps her dainty fingers near my elbow, the digits giving a gentle squeeze. I live for that squeeze. For any near or intentional touch she bestows. Each has my breath more erratic. Each little reassurance says she enjoys being on my arm.

I am so fucked. We are so fucked. In the best way.

We step into the restaurant and I give the hostess my name. She escorts us through the restaurant, toward a table in the back near another set of large windows that looks out onto the Gulf.

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