Unexpected Chances Read Online Free PDF Page B

scene, and ready to leave. I try to see if I can spot anyone else, but all I notice is Cory fuming at the table.
    If looks could kill, Carter would be dead right about now.
    An arm reaches out to me stopping me, “Can I talk to you a moment?”
    Releasing all the air from my lungs, I try to gather my senses before I speak. “I don’t have anything to say to you, Carter. If you need to talk about the contract, you can call the office. Angela is back, and I know she’d love to discuss it with you all day long.”
    I snatch my arm from his hold, angry with myself that I want to hear what he has to say.
    His voice alone, sends chills through my body that I can’t explain.
    As I was looking at him and trying to distract Cory, I felt this pull to protect him. Usually only protecting my family and friends. I don’t know this man, but I want to know more.
    I have to know more about him.
    If I don’t figure out this hold he has on me, I might never be able to breathe again.
    Being in his arms tonight was the best, and worst thing that I’ve ever felt in my life. I’m not even sure why I thought it was Cory. He makes me feel safe, and secure. But Carter Northwood could bring down my universe with one look, one touch, and one word.
    Back at our table, I try to not look at Cory. I don’t need the million questions and the attitude.
    I take a gulp of my water and hear Cory, “Who was that? Don’t play stupid with me. You better be happy that I saw that and not Seth.”
    “Cory, back off. I’m not your property or anyone else’s. It was a misunderstanding. Nothing more, okay,” I let out with my voice laced like venom.
    “No, you sure the hell aren’t my property. If you were, you know what I would do,” he says, as he steps closer to me. He places his finger under my chin and lifts my head up to look at him.
    “Tabitha, you know you mean the world to me. I’ll never allow someone to hurt you. Why can’t you see how much you mean to me? Hell, I think I’m in love with you.”
    It’s like someone has ripped my heart out. “Cory, you know I love you, but not like that.”
    “I know, Firecracker. But a guy can have hopes and dreams, can’t he?”
    I don’t respond; all I can do is shrug it off as it’s no big deal. I knew one day it would come to this.
    I’m totally screwed now.
    I can’t lose one of my best friends over love.
    Cory knows my history; he knows my dislikes, my likes; everything. He’s the one that comes to rescue me when I’m stuck in a bind. If I’m sick, he brings me soup and stays with me until I’m better. Need a movie date, call Cory.
    What am I going to do now?
    This could ruin everything between us, not to mention the fact that Carter is glaring holes through Cory from the back of the bar. He didn’t leave like he should have. No, this hardheaded man marched to the back of the room and is currently camped out like he’s on guard duty.
    “Come on. I’m ready to go home,” I say, looking down at the table. When I look up and over to Cory, his eyes are full of hurt and disappointment.
    Great, now I have to fix this.
    “Where’s my brother?”
    “Left a little while ago. I told him I’d make sure you got home safe, and that’s what I plan to do.”
    Cory places his hand on my lower back to guide me out of the bar.
    I wish his touch could drive me as mad as Carter’s, but nothing.
    When we make our way outside, I take in the fresh air from the night. Opening my eyes to walk forward, I can still feel the heated ones on me from Carter.
     
    ****
    Carter
    Tabitha shivers in my arms, I’m not sure if it’s from fear or my touch. I’m sure it’s from the fear of the unknown, the fact that she was dancing with a stranger.
    When she turns around and looks up at me, those green eyes of her almost bring me to my knees. They captivate me, almost as if she’s casting a spell on me.
    I watch as she licks her lips. This simple act makes me want to taste them. I need to see if they are as