Page 8

"Absolutely not. These panties were expensive, and I intend to get my money's worth."

His laughter makes it difficult to remember I was trying to have a serious conversation.

"I'm tired of casual relationships," I admit. "Dating apps, men who disappear after three months, and pretending I don't care when somebody doesn't call. I want something real. Somebody who actually wants to be with me."

Enzo takes my hand. "I'm not looking for casual either."

I study him, wondering whether I'm making a mistake by taking a handsome stranger seriously.

"That's a pretty big statement from a man who barely knows me."

"Then I'll get to know you." He strokes his thumb across my knuckles. "Starting tomorrow, if you'll let me."

My heart does something spectacularly stupid.

"You're moving awfully fast for a man who doesn't know whether I snore."

"I intend to find out."

Oh, fuck me.

If he keeps talking like that, I'm going to end up making a complete fool of myself.

He moves closer, his gaze dropping to my mouth.

"Bridget, I'd really like to kiss you."

"Well, I suppose that would be acceptable."

"Acceptable?"

"I'm trying not to appear too eager."

He smiles. "Sweetheart, I've been thinking about kissing you since you opened that smart mouth of yours before the ceremony."

"Then what are you waiting for?"

His hand cups my cheek, and his lips brush mine, surprisingly gentle for a man who's been issuing orders since the moment we met. I curl my fingers into his jacket and kiss him back, which apparently gives him all the encouragement he needs.

His arm settles around my waist, drawing me against him as the kiss deepens. I can feel his warmth through that expensive tuxedo, his hand steady against my back, and the faint scrape of his stubble along my cheek.

Good Lord.

This man knows how to kiss.

When he finally lifts his head, I'm breathing like I've climbed six flights of stairs.

"Jesus, Bridget," he murmurs.

"What?"

He smiles. "Just trying to remember we're at a wedding."

"Probably shouldn't get arrested for public indecency at my best friend's reception."

"Not how I intended to end the evening."

I laugh, resting my forehead against his chest for a moment. I should probably go inside before Elise sends out a search party, but the thought of leaving his arms is becoming increasingly unattractive.