The next day I grabbed the gloves and stepped outside, ready to help my new neighbor.

Yes, that was what I was going to do. Just help.

I kept repeating it in my head like a mantra while I crossed the yard.

I had on a white tank top that would turn basically see-through once I got sweaty, and denim cut-off shorts so short the pockets hung out the bottom. Flip-flops. Hair in a messy ponytail. Sunglasses pushed up on my head. Lip gloss.

Nothing special.

Just normal summer work-in-the-yard clothes.

Jace was already out there, shirtless again, sweat running in lines down the grooves of his abs, tattoos dark...