It was one of those hot summer days when I couldn't be bothered to do much of anything. I was lounging in the backyard, sipping lemonade in my bikini, when I heard the sound of tools clinking. I looked up and saw him—the gardener I'd hired to clean up the yard.

He was tall, tan, and rugged, with dirt on his hands and sweat glistening on his arms. His shirt was off, tucked into the waistband of his jeans, and every muscle oved perfectly as he worked. I don't know why, but watching him rake the leaves felt way more entertainingthan it should have.

"Looks like hard work," I said, walking over to him. He straightened up, wiping his forehead with the back of his hand, and gave me this slow smile. "It's nothing I can't handle," he said, his voice low and smooth.

I tilted my head, letting my eyes wander. "Well, if you nee a break, there's plenty of shade over here," I said, motioning to the patio. He followed me over, grabbing a glass of water I'd poured. I caught him looking at me as he drank, his eyes lingering a little too long on my bikini.

“You always dress like that for yard work?” he asked, smirking

I shrugged, playing innocent. "It's my house. I can wear whatever I want.”

He chuckled, setting the glass down. Fair enough. But you're making it hard to focus.

"Maybe I like distracting you," I said, stepping closer. His smirk widened, and I could feel the heat between us building. "Is that so?" he asked, his voice dropping.

Before I could answer, he closed the gap between us, his hands brushing against my hips. "You sure you're not the one who's distracted?" he teased, his lips just inches from mine

"I'm fine," I whispered. "Are you?

Instead of replying, he kissed me, his lips rough but perfect. His hands gripped my waist, pulling me closer, and I could feel the strength in his arms as he held me. The cool breeze didn't stand a chance against the fire building between us.

The tools stayed untouched for the rest of the afternoon, and by the time he left, the yard wasn't the only thing that got a good "workout." Let's just say, I'll be hiring him again soon. 😉