She shuddered in a shaky breath. “Intense.”
He smiled. Not because he was happy, but because she liked it. Probably not as much as he did, but this wasn’t a competition. This time, they were both on the same side. But tonight wasn’t going to be the night. If he had sex with her, it could mean the end of their friendship. The death of his friends was difficult enough. Losing her would kill him.
She combed shaky fingers through her hair. He wanted her hands on him, raking her fingernails down his chest.
“Okay, so let’s get ourselves back on track,” she said. “I know you’re hurting.”
“My balls are killing me.”
Her lips curved. “C’mon, Ash. I’m serious.”
“So am I, babe.” He winked. “Let’s talk. Because God knows, I could use more of that.”
They entered the ship’s cabin. He flicked on the recessed lights, then dimmed them. Sleek lines and cool colors, the large room was filled with two sofas and a coffee table, a state-of-the-art galley for cooking, and the captain’s bridge. The lower level housed three staterooms. The upper level offered a flybridge where he could captain his vessel outside.
“You want something to drink? If you’re hungry, I can order a pizza.”
Carly eased onto the light gray sofa while Maverick kicked off his boots so his bare feet could breathe.
“Ashton, talk to me.”
He sat beside her. Go on. Get it out. “You saw me in the hospital, so you know I got banged up pretty good. I’ve never had my ass kicked like that before.”
“I know.”
“I’m not a hundred percent, but I’ll get there.” He rubbed the underside of his thigh.
“Let me massage your leg.”
“No.”
“Lay down.”
“Carly.”
“Do not argue with me.”
“My God, woman, you like to boss me around.” He lay face down on the couch and she moved beside him.
“Where does it hurt?”
“Hamstring is messed up. I’ve got a knot by my ass that won’t stop aching.”
“Do I need to stay clear of any scars?”
“No, those healed.”
“Can you take off your pants?”
“What?”
“It would be easier if I could massage your leg without the clothing.”
“Don’t tempt fate, babe. Jeans stay on.”
She shook her head. “We had an accidental kiss. Relax, would ya?”
That was no accident. He’d feel much better after having that ever-loving orgasm. And he’d relish in the pleasure of taking care of her needs.
