My Handsome Stepdad

"Let Alexander examine it," Olivia insists.

My gaze drifts to my stepfather swimming laps in the pool outside. The idea of his hands inside my mouth sends an unexpected tremor through me.

"I'd prefer to wait for Dr. Harrison," I say.

"Why? Alexander is an orthodontist. This is his specialty."

"Dr. Harrison has handled my case for three years. He understands my treatment history."

"Alexander knows it too," Olivia replies with an exasperated sigh. "Besides, you've progressed enough that any orthodontist could manage your care now."

My tongue traces the protruding wire.

"It's shredding your gums," Olivia observes, as if sensing my discomfort.

I've been relying heavily on dental wax, but it's becoming ineffective. Yet the mere thought of Alexander's touch—even professionally—makes my skin flush.

My attraction to my stepfather was immediate. From our first meeting, he became the standard against which I'd measure every potential boyfriend. Not that I've had many.

Headgear doesn't exactly scream sex appeal in high school circles. Boys weren't exactly lining up to ask me out.

Truthfully, my only dates have been with fellow brace-faces. Which means I've never properly kissed anyone, let alone experienced anything more intimate.

I'm hoping college guys will be more open-minded about dating someone with braces. Now that my headgear is permanently retired, perhaps my prospects will improve.

"I'm certain Alexander can squeeze you into his schedule today. He might even be able to handle it here at home."

"H-here?"

"Is that an issue?" Olivia questions. "You could simply recline on the sofa while he examines you."

Why does that mental image make my entire body break out in goosebumps? Before I can voice my objections, Alexander slides the glass door open.

His bare torso is sculpted and powerful. Water droplets trace paths through his chest hair, glistening in the sunlight. My mouth waters at the thought of tasting his sun-warmed skin.

This is precisely why he shouldn't examine my mouth. Then again, perhaps having it done at home is safer. If he administers nitrous oxide or any sedative, I might accidentally confess my attraction. The humiliation would destroy me.

"Alexander," Olivia says. "Chloe needs you to check her braces."

"Chloe's case is quite complex. Wouldn't it be better to contact Doug Harrison?"

"His practice is closed for vacation. The entire office is shut down for the week. We could call the emergency line, but that means some unfamiliar dentist examining Chloe. At least you're acquainted with her treatment journey."

Olivia and Alexander actually met through Dr. Harrison. Technically, I spotted him first, but I was still seventeen—though nearing eighteen. That, combined with my headgear, likely made me invisible to him. Unfortunately, he had no such blindness where my mother was concerned.

Alexander had recently relocated here and was touring the office during one of my appointments. Apparently, Olivia and he flirted throughout my monthly dental torture session.