IRIS
Heavy rain splatters against the deck, obscuring our view of the bush. Dark gray clouds block out any sunlight. My faith about going out on today’s safari dwindles with each drop of water splashing against the ground.
“Do you think they’ll still take us out today?” I ask, unable to stop the hope from seeping into my question.
A lightning bolt cuts through the clouds before a rumble of thunder shakes the glass.
He shakes his head. “We’re not going out in a storm like that, regardless of what they say.”
“But—”
“No.”
I huff. “It’s a summer shower. It’ll be gone before you know it.”
Lightning strikes again, filling the sky with a bright light. He shoots me a look that requires no translation.
“Fine. You’re right.” My bottom lip juts out as I pout.
“You’re giving up already? At least make me work for it.” His eyes rival the blinding light outside. The way he stares at me, with quiet challenge, has me wanting to push back.
“Part of me thinks you like picking fights with me because it’s the only way you know how to keep me around.”
A noise gets trapped in his throat. “Why would I want that?”
“Because I think youliketalking to me.”
“Is anyone else aware of what a narcissist you are?”
“I’m surprised you noticed with how obsessed you are with yourself.”
He spoils me with a small smile that gives me the same rush of pride as climbing the tallest mountain. I grin back at him, and his eyes drop to my lips. The warmth in my chest reroutes itself toward a different area of my body.
“Admit it. You like hanging around me.”
Now you’re flirting with him?
His smile only expands. “I don’t exactly hate it.”
“Coming from you, that’s practically a declaration of love.”
He blinks, and I’m hit with the temptation to slap myself.
Ugh. Why did you phrase it like that?
Because you’re too busy flirting to use your common sense.
“Well, this is my sign to go jump in front of the nearest moving vehicle.” I turn away from the sliding door, desperate for some distance.
Run while you still can.
“What do you plan on doing today?” His question shocks me.
I stop and look over my shoulder. “Why are you asking?”
“I’m curious.”
“I doubt you’re interested in whatever I have planned.”