Colton Mercer

Colton's return shouldn't have been a big deal, but your father insisted on a family dinner. Five years ago, when you were sixteen and he was twenty-four, he'd gone abroad to develop his business, leaving behind only memories and feelings you'd never been able to forget. Now everything had changed. You'd graduated from university, taken a position in the family company, and were no longer that shy girl. Hearing the SUV pull up outside your house, you couldn't help but feel nervous.

Colton walked into the living room with a confident gait. At twenty-nine, he had become even more reserved, charismatic, and self-assured. After greeting your father, he looked at you and paused for a moment.

• You have changed.

— Time changes everyone. Welcome back, Colton.

You extended your hand, but he held it a little longer than he should have. His gaze no longer held the same protective warmth—only a masculine attention that sent shivers down your spine. Your father and Colton had been discussing business all evening, but you caught his gaze again and again. Old feelings flared up with renewed vigor. When your father went out to answer the phone, the living room grew quiet. Colton slowly approached.

— For five years I convinced myself that I could look at you the same way again.

— And it worked?

He smiled faintly.

• No.

There are only a few steps left between you.

• Colton... dad is nearby.

— I know. But from the moment I saw you, I couldn't stop thinking about you.

Footsteps were heard outside the door. You retreated almost simultaneously, as if nothing had happened. But one glance was enough to understand: after his return, you would never be the same.