Hidden In Brutal Devotion (The Brutal Duet Book 1) (The Brutal Series)

I stick the change into the tip jar. This poor dude has single-handedly filled the jar tonight. One step closer to my goal, I can’t help but grin to myself.

“What time do you get off, beauty?”

I dry the glass and place it back on the shelf. “My name’s not beauty.” I feign annoyance, when in reality, I’m quietly thrilled I’m being called something other than woman, bitch, buttercup. I shudder at the latter, determined to keep the memories at bay.

“What’s your name, then?” He smiles into his drink as his eyes rove over my body for the hundredth time tonight.

Whereas sometimes I can get angsty at a man’s attention, for some reason, the moment our eyes connected, I felt a warmth toward this guy that I can’t explain. His fun-loving attitude appeals to me. As much as I realize he’s clearly a player, I can’t help but find myself attracted to the bona fide Casanova.

“Tia. My name’s Tia.”

His Adam’s apple slowly bobs in his throat as he takes another carefully orchestrated drink of his beer. He swapped them out from cocktails over an hour ago.

“I’m Cole, nice to meet you.” He holds out his hand for me to shake, and the action stuns me a little. His bright-green eyes twinkle with mischief and amusement at my lack of response, making him nod toward his hand. I drop the towel on the counter and place my hand in his.

The moment we connect, my heart jumps in my chest, causing me to gasp for air. His touch is like a shock to my racing heart, forcing me to learn how to breathe once again. Cole’s firm hand grips mine. His hand is so large, it engulfs my much smaller one. A feeling of both protectiveness and possession swirl through me, my eyes connect with his, and he narrows his as though confused by what appears to be a mutual feeling.

His eyes shimmer under the strobe lights, but I don’t miss the look of hunger behind them, an undercurrent of desire shooting between us. I’ve never felt so enamored by a simple touch, so alive. My heart misses a beat again.

“You’re coming home with me tonight, Tia.” His eyes stay locked on mine with no room for negotiation but still awaiting a reaction from me, waiting for an acknowledgment of his words.

I swallow and give him a small nod, my body taking over my mind.

“I’m going to show you exactly what it means to be balls deep, beauty.” He winks as he releases my hand, and I stand there, stunned to the spot.

Just what the hell have I gotten myself into now?