“I like music, and I like to make playlists. In fact, I have one for almost every occasion.” He indicated to turn the corner, and I loved how easily he made driving look, how manly his hands were, how his rings clinked against the metal strip on the steering wheel. “Check out my ‘Food Shopping for Mum’ one; it’s brilliant.”

  Laughing, I did as he suggested and found it. Reading through the songs, I had to agree with him. It was full of banging tunes.

  “I’m putting this one on,” I told him. “I can imagine you pushing your trolley listening to it.”

  “See, told you it was good.”

  I looked over at him, and he had the biggest smile. As the music kicked in, he started to move around in his seat, looking happy and not one bit embarrassed that he was doing a head move that looked like some sort of excited chicken.

  “It is,” I replied. “Really good.”

  Zak looked at me briefly, and his eyes were twinkling. “See, I told you a night out with me would be a good one.”

  I frowned. “Did you?”

  “Maybe not,” he said, laughing. “But it will be. Promise.”

  Relaxing back in the seat, I couldn’t help the huge smile that hurt my cheeks. I wasn’t sure what Zak taking me out meant, but I was determined to enjoy it, even if my stomach was in knots.

  Chapter Eighteen

  Will

  “You didn’t tell me you were a bowling champion,” Maya complained, her lips pouting. “That’s not fair.”

  I chuckled, shaking my head. “I haven’t played for years. Probably since Maddy had a bowling party for her eighth birthday.”

  Putting a hand to her hip, Maya narrowed her eyes on me with a hint of a smile. “I don’t believe you.”

  “I swear.” Grinning, I wrapped an arm around her waist and pulled her closer, whispering in her ear, “You’re just not very good.”

  Laughing loudly, she slapped my chest. “You cheeky beggar.”

  Her eyes were full of amusement as she leaned back to look at me, and I had to kiss her. Cradling her face in my hands, my thumbs gently stroking her chin, I laid my lips on hers and gave her the softest of kisses. Maya melted into me, snaking her arms around my neck as her tongue flicked out, prompting me to deepen the kiss. When she gave a little moan, it encouraged me to pull her closer. I was hard behind the zip of my jeans, and when Maya pushed her hips forward, I knew that she felt it. I knew that if we were somewhere else, we would probably be naked within seconds. We weren’t somewhere else, though, and I didn’t want to ruin things, so I gently pulled away.

  “We should get back to the bowling,” I whispered.

  She licked her lips and nodded. “I suppose so. Although, I’m a little disappointed that we do.”

  “Yeah, and me.” I sighed heavily. “But you still have a few games to try and win back some pride.”

  “Will, I’m four-nil down. How the hell do you think I’ll do that?”

  “I might let you win the next few games.”

  “No way,” she said, gasping. “I don’t want any favours.”

  “Okay, if you say so.” I gave her waist a squeeze. “Let’s see what you can do.”

  “Right. Let’s do that.”

  I let her go and watched as she wiggled her gorgeous arse to the lane and picked up her bowling ball. When she sashayed into position, there was definitely an extra sway to her hips. As she got ready to send the ball down the lane she pushed her backside out further than necessary and practically did a slut drop. I didn’t care whether she won every one of the next games, especially if she styled it out in the same way.

  She glanced over her shoulder and winked. “Here we go.” The bowling ball flew out of her hands and trickled down the centre of the alley for a couple of feet and then slowly dribbled into the gully at the side. “Shit.” Maya stood up and whirled around to face me. “Stop smirking.”

  “I’m not.” I rubbed a hand over my mouth to try and hide the smirk that she’d spotted.

  “Yes, you are.” She put her hands to her hips and sighed. “Come on then. Show me how it’s done.”

  Sauntering over to the rack of bowling balls, I picked one up and walked to the spot. Maya moved out of the way, waving her hand in front of her.

  “Off you go, Mr Bowling Champion.”

  I let the ball go and watched as it ran down the aisle knocking eight skittles over. “I didn’t get a strike out,” I said almost apologetically.

  Maya burst out laughing and walked up to me, wrapping her arms around my shoulders. “Maybe you’re not that good then.” Getting onto her tiptoes she gave me a quick kiss. “I don’t think I’m going to beat you after all, so do you fancy going somewhere else?”

  I did, but it was probably time I went home. I’d left Maddy her dinner and had messaged her that I wouldn’t be home until later, but I couldn’t leave her alone all night.

  “I really should be getting back. It’ll take me a couple of hours, and there’s Maddy.”

  “That’s fine.” She stroked my cheek and smiled. “I had fun today. Thank you.”

  “It’s been my absolute bloody pleasure.” I had to kiss her but was afraid that if I did, I wouldn’t stop. “Can we do it again, soon?”

  She grinned. “I’d love that.”

  “As soon as I get home, I’ll call you and sort when. Is that okay?”

  “Perfect.”

  Heavy with disappointment, I let her go. “Do you want a lift home? I’m parked on Templar Street.”

  “I’m parked just around the corner from the café, so don’t worry.”

  It was only six-thirty, but it was dark outside, and I didn’t like the idea of her going back to her car alone.

  “Then I’ll walk you back to your car.”

  She slapped at my chest. “You don’t need to. It’s through a crowded shopping area.”

  “Nope. I want to. I insist.”

  She thought about it for a moment and then nodded, taking my hand in hers. “I’d like that. It would be very kind of you.”

  I gave her hand a squeeze and pulled her a little closer. “I told you, I’m a very nice man.”

  Her eyes grazed over my face as she sighed, “You know, I actually you think you are.”

  “I am,” I said, staring into her beautiful green eyes. “And I’m looking forward to showing you exactly how nice I can be.”

  As she smiled at me, my chest warmed, and I knew she was the one woman I’d want for much longer than two weeks.

  “Well, this is me,” Maya said, pointing at a newish, white Kia SUV-type car.

  The fact that it was a big, sturdy car gave me a strange sense of relief. I liked the idea that she would be safe while driving.

  Beeping the lock, she opened the passenger door and threw her bag onto the seat before turning back to me. “I’ve had a great day,” she stated, leaning back against the car.

  I moved closer, not ready to have a distance between us just yet, but knowing I had to go. Then, when she smiled at me, I knew I had to kiss her before I did, so placing my hands on the roof of the car I confined her with my arms.

  “I don’t really want this day to end, but…”

  “You have to go home for Maddy,” Maya said. While her smile was only faint, her words weren’t said with blame but stated. I was sure she understood, at least I hoped that she did because Maddy was the most important thing in my life. The most important person in my life.

  “Can we meet up again?” she asked.

  I was shocked, expecting that I would have to beg her to see me again. “Definitely. Yes,” I said on a breath of relief. “When?”

  Maya shrugged. “Like I said, I’m off all week.” She dropped her gaze to the floor, with a hint of a smile. “I could come over to you.” Green eyes flashed back up at me. “Or not, whatever you prefer.”

  Pressing my body against hers, I pushed my leg between her thighs, noticing how her hips thrust forward like she needed the relief. I know I did. I was desperate for her, but there was time for what I needed.

  “I’d love you to come over to me.” I took a deep breath. “Maybe meet Maddy?”

  I had no idea why I’d suggested it. We’d had one bloody date. It should have been so wrong, to want her to meet my daughter so soon, but it felt so right. Everything inside of me was desperate for them to get to know each other, because the warmth in my chest told me it would be amazing.

  Maya’s cheeks pinked as she laid her hand over the top of my thudding heart. “I’d like that, but only if you think it’s right. If Maddy will be okay with it.”

  “I think she would.” She was always telling me to take women seriously and that it was time I settled down. “I think she’ll like you. I mean, only if you want to. If you don’t, then I erm…” I scratched my head. “It’s probably too soon, I probably shouldn’t have said anything.”

  Maya shook her head and smiled. “Will, it’s fine. I’d like to meet her, but only if she’s ready.” Exhaling slowly, she licked her lips. “I know it’s stupid after just one date, but I think this could go somewhere. I think,” she rolled her eyes, “God, this sounds so cheesy, but I know this is something good. Too good not to give it a chance.”

  My exhalation was full of relief that she felt the same way. “I agree, so let me speak to her, but I’m sure she’ll be happy to meet you.”

  “Honestly?”

  “Honestly.” Nodding, I leaned in closer and kissed her softly.

  When our mouths met, everything around us melted away, and all I could feel was Maya’s soft lips against mine. All I could hear was my heart thudding against my breastbone. All I wanted was more time with her.

  “I’ll speak to her as soon as I get home.”

  “Okay,” she whispered. “I should let you go.”

  She was right, but the idea of moving my body away from hers was hard. For the first time ever, I was torn about putting my daughter first. It wasn’t an option, though; it was ingrained in me to be there for her.

  “Yeah, I suppose you do.” With a defeated groan, I pushed away from Maya with our fingers still linked, unable to totally let go. “I’ll call you.”

  “You better.” She grinned and took a deep breath.

  “Speak later.” I took a step back. Only one.

  “We have a family Zoom call later, so if I don’t answer leave me a message and I’ll call you back.” She chewed on her bottom lip.

  Nodding, I took another step back and our arms stretched out. “Is there a good time to call?”

  “After eight. We do it after Coronation Street has finished. Mum is mad on it. Actually, so is my brother Jack, but he won’t admit it.”

  Earlier, Maya had told me her parents had gone to live in Scotland, going back to her dad’s roots after he retired, and they kept in touch with weekly video calls with her and her brothers.

  “I’ll call about half nine. That okay?”

  A huge smile broke out, showing me the cute gap between her teeth. “Perfect.”

  I couldn’t leave without tasting her lips one more time, so took a quick kiss and loved the little moan she gave.

  It took me five more minutes before I watched her close her car door and start up her car. Then I legged it back to my own car and went home, hopefully to get my daughter to agree to meet the new woman in my life.

  Maya’s Diary Entry

  Oh shit. I am in so much trouble. I really, really like Will. He’s just… argh, there aren’t enough words to explain what’s going on in my head, in my chest and in my stomach. I have never liked anyone this much so soon. I know I’m a romantic, and I’m probably making a tit of myself, but I could see myself falling in love with him. He was so lovely, insisted on paying for everything, held my hand, kissed me against my car. He’s an amazing kisser. Morgan will kill me for using the word amazing. She’d tell me it’s lazy vocabulary!! Anyway, he was an incredible kisser. I was so turned on, I think I almost came, lol. I asked him to come home with me, but he couldn’t because of his daughter. I like that he seems like a good dad. It’s clear she’s the most important thing in his life, and that shows what kind of man he is. At least, I hope it does. He said he was going to call me, and I’m panicking. What if he doesn’t call? Should I call him? I hope he isn’t stringing me along. I don’t think he seems the sort of guy that would. Oh shit, I think I might be sick now!!

  Chapter Nineteen

  Maddy

  As we sat at the table, I couldn’t stop looking at Zak. Who would have thought that eating a burger was sexy? Maybe it was the way he licked burger sauce from his fingers that made me all hot and bothered. Or how he sucked hard on the straw of his coke. Whatever it was, I couldn’t take my eyes off him.

  “This is so rude,” Zak said, wiping his hands on his serviette. “You not eating while I stuff my face.”

  “It’s fine.” I shook my head, unable to take my eyes off his fingers. There was ketchup on one of them, and I was almost tempted to grab his hand and lick it off myself. “I’m enjoying my milkshake.”

  “I know, but it’s not much of a date watching me eat.”

  My stomach knotted. “A date?” I asked tentatively.

  He grinned and then his tongue snaked out and licked off the ketchup, leaving me disappointed.

  “Yeah, what did you think it was?”

  I shrugged. “I don’t know.” Zak raised an eyebrow. “Okay, so maybe I’m a bit dense.”

  “You’re not dense. Maybe just a bit slow.”

  When my mouth dropped open, he started laughing and grabbed my hand, pulling it closer to him. He threaded our fingers and rubbed his thumb up and down mine, every single stroke sending my temperature higher and my nerves spikier.

  “I really like you, Maddy.” His bright blue eyes twinkled as he leaned across the table. “Do you want to be on a date with me?”

  My throat felt dry, and my lips stuck to my teeth as I smiled. “Yes.”

  He laughed, throwing his head back, showing his Adam’s apple, and there was something about it that made me feel all tingly.

  “You don’t sound very sure.”

  “No, honestly, I am. Do you? Do you want to be on a date with me?”

  He sighed and shook his head, frustrated. “Of course I do. I asked you didn’t I?” He leaned further across the table and whispered, “I’ve been wanting to ask you for ages.”

  “You have?” I wiped my spare hand on my jeans, trying to ignore the nervous roll of my stomach.

  “Haven’t you realised? Didn’t you notice how I kept staring over at you?”

  I shook my head, aware that my mouth was gaping. “No. I mean, I did wonder at Emma’s house but wasn’t sure.”

  “And when I nearly kissed you at my house? Didn’t that prove it to you?” He gave me a sexy smirk. “Was it that bad?”

  “No.” I cringed at my eagerness, wondering whether he thought I was lame.

  His smile seemed to say that he didn’t, and when he took my other hand, I was sure that he didn’t. When he reached over to kiss me quickly on the lips, I knew that he didn’t.

  “You taste of chocolate.” Slowly pulling back from me, his gaze was firmly on my lips. “It’s nice.”

  “T-thanks.”

  “So,” he said, letting go of one of my hands, “where do you fancy going next?”

  “I don’t know.” I shrugged.

  “Not that there’s much for seventeen-year-olds to do around here.”

  “I bet you wish you’d never moved here, don’t you?”

  Zak frowned. “No, because I wouldn’t have met you if I hadn’t, would I?” He grinned. “I like it here. I like how easy it is and the fact that no one is rushing around, stressed out.”

  “I think my dad might argue that one with you.”

  “Really?” He looked down at our joined hands and smiled at them before looking back up at me. “I’m surprised. He seems so laid back.”

  “Don’t let him fool you. He gets very stressy when it’s time to do his year-end accounts.”

  “He seems like a nice guy, though.”

  I waved him off. “He’s okay.”

  When Zak smiled at me, my heart started to beat so fast I felt like I’d run a marathon. I was full of nervous energy and could feel it edging into my fingers. Fingers that he was holding onto, so I gently pulled them from his. He frowned and then looked down at my hand as I slid it towards me.

  “Don’t you like PDA’s?” he asked.

  Pushing both shaking hands under my thighs, I shrugged. “I don’t mind them.”

  “I was enjoying it. Holding your hand. I liked it.” He pouted and then grinned, holding out his hand, palm up. “Come on then, give it to me.”

  “What?”

  “Your hand,” he said with his eyebrows raised. “I’d like to hold it. If that’s okay with you.” He leaned closer and whispered, “Is that okay with you?”

  Biting on my top lip, I nodded and gave him back my hand. He linked our fingers again and then lifted them, resting his elbow on the table. Everything inside of me felt… strange, fizzy almost.

  “You have really soft skin,” he said, stroking my palm, tickling it and making me squirm. He grinned mischievously. “Oh, I forgot that you’re ticklish. I’ll stop.”

  The instant that he stopped doing it, I wished I wasn’t, because I’d liked it. Relief came, though, when he started to rub my thumb instead.

  “Better?”

  “Yeah,” I whispered. “That doesn’t tickle at all.”

  “Good.” He moved his head closer to mine and gave me the slightest of kisses, yet my heart almost exploded with the surge of adrenalin that it created. “So, any idea where you want to go after here?”

  “My house?” I suggested, without thinking.

  Zak blinked slowly. “Your dad isn’t home. Are you sure?”

  I had no idea whether I was or not, I just knew I wasn’t ready to say goodnight to him. I wanted to spend more time with him, talking to him, looking at him.