Only Yours

06. Ready?

Tamina

"I was going to text you because they're not letting cars through due to a concert," I start, unsure of what to do with myself now that he's standing right in front of me.

"Thank you, don't worry, I found a spot on the skirts of the town centre." His eyes narrow ever so slightly. "Can I walk you home?"

My cheeks warm because I can feel both Gabriel and Florentina's attention on us. Swallowing the nerves so I don't make a fool out of myself not only in front of him, but them as well, I offer a strong nod. "That would be nice, thank you. . . only if you're not busy."

There's a clipped smile, and I can't help but smile.

He may not be much of a smiler, but at least he offers me something.

When he strides toward the till rather than lead the way to the door, my heart skips a beat. Gabriel is kind enough to act like he's cleaning, but Jasmine's eyes scan us like a hawk.

"I would like to place an order," he greets, and the flare in her eyes is unmistakeable.

Her lips spread into a wide grin while those flaring eyes flit to me for the briefest moment. "Of course, what can I get you, handsome?"

I note the way Gabriel shakes his head even though he's not facing us.

"Two hot chocolates to go," Brandon inserts, keeping the interaction short.

I track the way she twirls a lock of her ponytail around a slender finger, making sure she goes the extra mile to cock out a hip. "So, you're Mr Date, right?"

My throat closes up at the question. Staring at the floor, I sift through what I could say to diffuse the situation and steal her attention from him. Nothing comes to mind because the rational part of my brain knows this is just to see the possibilities that lie ahead of us after tonight. The small niggling part that is starting to find the idea of knowing Brandon more wants to show that I can stand up for myself and defend my place beside him. That I'm worthy and shouldn't be stepped over.

However, the last time that happened, it had been an apparent misunderstanding on my part.

"Why are you acting like this? I was only brushing her hair out of the way to be helpful; if I was interested in her, I wouldn't be stood here with you now, would I?"

Biting the inside of my cheek, I remain silent.

"That's right. And you are?"

Straightening, I say, "That's Jasmine, and that's Gabriel; the three of us are only a part of a seven-man team. Our boss is due from his break soon, and the girl I'm covering for should be here any minute," I explain, and he hums in acknowledgement.

"I'm Brandon," he introduces himself, and I'm pleased he's trying this time round, unlike with the awkward exchange with Quinton.

Gabriel lifts his hand up while he makes Brandon's order, knowing full well Jasmine isn't going to budge.

"It's nice to meet you, handsome," she beams, all too gleefully. "We hope you come round often."

Don't bite. Don't bite.

"No offence," he pauses for a moment, "Jasmine, right?" Brandon starts, retrieving his card.

"That's right," she grins, flashing those perfect white teeth.

"I don't think I will be coming regularly unless it is to see Tamina, so I'm afraid there won't be much business coming from me, but keep up the good effort you do here," he finalises, and I don't miss the throat clear from Gabriel as his shoulders shake. "Now, what do I owe you?"