Not Your Doormat Anymore novel Chapter 52

"Dr. Ranford, am I going to embarrass you?" Kourtney still seemed a little nervous as she got into the car.

"You won't." She was beautiful and so young. Standing next to her, I even felt like an old man dating a much younger woman. What would the others think?

"When we go in, don't call me Dr. Ranford. Just call me by my name."

She nodded. Then, remembering I was driving, she quickly added, "Alright... Jace."

For some reason, hearing my name come from her lips felt oddly tender, softening something in me. I figured it was just because her voice was too sweet; it had to be messing with my head.

But maybe that wasn't such a bad thing. She was pleasing to the eyes and now the ears too.

When we arrived at the villa, Kourtney seemed to have mentally prepared herself. She didn't overreact, just drew in a quick breath and composed herself.

"I'll get the door for you."

Seeing she was about to get out on her own, I gave her a quick reminder. She quickly pulled her hand back, resting it on her lap, and nodded obediently.

"Sorry, Dr.—uh... Jace. I don't really know how these things work." She gave an apologetic smile, her big eyes blinking sweetly. It was adorable.

"It's fine. You'll learn." I shook my head, stepped out first, and opened the door for her, holding out my hand.

Kourtney hesitated before placing her soft hand in mine. With a gentle tug, she followed my lead and stepped out, now standing in front of me. She wasn't very tall, only reaching my chest.

I stretched out my arm.

"Huh?"

"Link arms."

"Oh, okay."