Page 18 of Luci’s Lullaby

“Yeah, I was sixteen. Almost seventeen. He was a freshman.”

She gives me a lopsided grin. “Why didn’t you say something to him?”

“He doesn’t know me, then or now.”

“Wait, you never told him?” Her smile slips.

I frown. “No, that ship has sailed. Besides, I know what he’s all about.”

“True, he’s all about the ladies.” Her mouth twists.

“Ladies? Well, that’s one way of putting it.” I giggle.

Her eyes spark mischievously. “Well, done.”

“Huh?”

“You’ve more than piqued his interest.” She tilts her head to her husband and my old flame. Did my heart just skip a beat? Stop it!

I wave her off and fan my own flames. “Not even, don’t even start.”

“I’m tellin’ you, that man is hooked.” She snickers.

“I didn’t cast my rod.”

“He’s got the pole covered.” She snorts, drawing Alden and Aksel’s attention.

I glare at her. “Get ahold of yourself.”

“Looks like he wants to get ahold of you!” She cackles as I peek over at him. Sure enough, he’s staring.

“Oh, hell no. Hush it.”

“I knew it! You like to be gagged.” Emerson wiggles her brows.

My face flames. “Stop it!”

“Stop what?” Aksel asks.

I want to crawl under the table. “Nothing, she’s being ridiculous.” Emerson laughs louder.

“So how do you know Alden?” Aksel narrows his eyes as Emerson loses her shit.

I shake my head. “Get control of her.”

“Yeah, babe. Maybe you should gag me!” I can’t fight it anymore, I burst into a fit of laughter with her as Aksel scratches his head.

“Women.”