How she could understand the Theory of Relativity, Gödel's Theorem, all aspects of trigonometry, geometry and calculus and not understand a thing about simple mechanics was a mystery she fully intended to find the solution to.

As long as she could locate the X and Y axes.

At the moment, she simply needed a short-handled screwdriver—and possibly a wrench—so she could take off the bike's plate and figure out why the pedals wouldn't turn. How hard could that be?

Thankfully, someone rang the doorbell before she could humiliate herself by contemplating that problem.

As she swung open the door, she instantly recognized the tall, dark-haired man on her doorstep. Swallowing unexpected nerves, she smiled. "Hey, Jared."

He yanked her into his arms. "Hey, brainy."

She had a moment to resent the old nickname while still appreciating his wide chest and muscled arms, as well as the scent of his forest-laden cologne, before he leaned back, holding her at arm's length.

"You look good." His light blue eyes sparkled as his gaze roved over her from head to toe. "Really good."

She pressed her lips together. He looked amazing. As always.

In fact, the grown-up, filled-out Jared packed even more of a punch to her senses than the teenage version had. He had a man's shoulders and broad chest, though his waist was still narrow, his legs long and trim. Stubble from a dark beard shadowed his sculpted jawline, enhancing his good looks, adding a touch of careless danger.

They'd kept in touch via e-mail and phone calls, b