Page 63 of Driving Beats

His face twists in concentration. He throws up his hands. “I don’t know! What color shirt should I wear. Just tell me and I’ll put it on.”

I purse my lips. Who knew it’s so difficult for a guy to get dressed? When UC gets ready for a gig, I have their racks all separated by band member, and everything pretty much matches. I guess this is a whole new world for him. Huh.

“How about your khaki trousers with your new black boots. They’re unexpected and will give you the rockstar edge. On the top, wear the purple shirt. It’s a great jewel tone and complements your coloring. You can even put on the earrings I gave you.”

“Aren’t they a bit big? Flashy?”

“True, they are. However, everything else you’re wearing is demure. Make sure the top of your shirt is unbuttoned so your UC pendant shows. The earrings will provide some extra bling.”

“I’m not a blingy type of guy.”

“I’m well aware.”

He stands while I sit, neither one of us saying anything.

I check the clock. “You don’t have much time—you better get dressed. Come back here before you leave, though. I need to approve your outfit.”

Without a word, Coop leaves for his bedroom and I stifle a smile. Men can be such babies! You’d think I was asking him to cook a gourmet meal or something, rather than put on clothes he just bought. Under my supervision, of course.

Realizing he won’t be out here for a little bit, I check out the vast family room, complete with a chess set and telescope. Not about to try getting to either, I turn on the TV and flip through the channels. Nothing grabs my attention until I land on Emilie Dubois’ series. She’s styling a couple of brothers. I love the distinct belts she has them wearing. Which reminds me I better order a belt or two for Coop. Emilie comes through once more.

Coop walks into the family room, arms outstretched. “How do I look?”

I focus on him, my eyes doing a slow blink. Wow. I did good. “Amazing!” I leap up. “Ouch!”

He catches me before I fall, the scent of patchouli and jasmine from the cologne we purchased together dancing in my nose. My head against his upper torso, I take a deep inhale.

“Are you okay?”

“Damn. You smell great.”

He chuckles. “Thanks to you.”

I sniff him again.

His arms tighten around me.

Without thought, I bring my lips to his neck.

When I try to go higher by pushing on my toes, pain flares and I crash into his hard body. “My stupid ankle!”

He rubs my back until the pain subsides. A little.

“Only a couple more days. Let me help you onto the sofa.” He sits me down and places my foot on the coffee table. “I’ll get you ice.”

I frickin’ hate being injured. Especially around such an intoxicating guy. Hold up, Nese! When did the guitarist become intoxicating? If Jenna and Hayden could read my thoughts, they’d be laughing at me. Well, too bad. I was caught up in his scent, nothing more.

“Here you go. Put this on your ankle. It’ll be better tomorrow, I promise.”

He places the icepack on the top of my foot and I manage not to hiss in pain. Have to keep some shred of dignity.

“I’m fine,” I lie. “Let me check out your outfit again. Turn around.”

He does and damn. He looks as good from the back as the front. “The boots are perfect! Don’t you agree?” He lifts up his left foot. “Show off!”

“I didn’t mean to⁠—”

“I’m joshin’ ya! I love the purple shirt and your UC pendant with this look.” I zero in on his earrings. “I see you’re wearing the hoops.”