Page 72 of Pucking Daddy

He’s standing in the hallway, one hand braced against the wall like he’s been there for a second. Waiting.

And then he looks up—and stops.

I can’t read his expression. Does he think the dress is too much? Does he think I look good?

I have no idea. And he doesn’t say anything.

Instead, he pushes off the wall and offers me his hand.

I take it. Just because I’m wearing heels and might need help getting down the stairs with my dignity intact, of course.

His hand is dry and steady, completely enveloping mine.

Downstairs, he helps me into my coat. His fingers brush my shoulders as he settles it in place, the contact brief. Still, it sends a shiver up my spine.

Because I’m apparently a masochist, I ask, “So, just to make sure—this is not a date? I wouldn’t want you to get the wrong idea.”

The second the words are out, I want to take them back, because I can hear how hollow they sound.

Jaxon glances at me, something flickering in his eyes—curiosity, maybe. Or something sharper.

“Right,” he confirms. “This is not a date.”

I nod, like that settles something. Like that’s exactly what I wanted to hear.

“Good,” I say. “That would be awkward.”

“Right,” he agrees.

Outside, the city is alive—lights, movement, the low hum of everything continuing whether we’re ready for it or not.

He leads me toward the car, his hand briefly touching my back to guide me.

Once we’re in the car, I can’t help myself.

“But just hypothetically,” I say, picking the conversation back up—because apparently I enjoy making things worse for myself—“if this were a date… what’s your go-to move?”

His mouth twitches slightly. “My go-to move?”

“Yeah,” I say lightly. “You know. Your signature. The thing that makes women fall at your feet.”

He exhales a quiet breath, shaking his head. “You think I have one of those?”

I give him a look. “You’re rich, successful, and handsome. Don’t pretend you don’t have a system.”

“I don’t have a system,” he says.

I tilt my head, studying him. “Please.”

“I don’t.” His gaze flicks to me again, more focused now. “You seem very interested in this.”

“I’m making conversation,” I say quickly.

“Mm.”

“That’s what people do on not-dates,” I add.

“Right.”