Page 97 of Licks

“Come on,” August said, jumping on Jimmy’s prodding. “Isn’t this wish thing a big deal with you ladies?” The way his smolder slid to me suggested he wanted a say in mine.

Rachel studied Ainsley and me, both of us wrapped up in our men, then she clinked her wineglass against Jimmy’s. “I think we all have what we need. It’s also about that time.”

The start of our twenty-eighth year.

We all shrunk into groups of two, happy to celebrate our new beginnings privately, and I had a slew of new beginnings to contemplate.

August pulled me around to face him. My favorite fresh start. “I love you, Possum. I know the last couple days have been nuts, but being with you is better than I could have dreamed.” My best friend pressed me against the bar and kissed me deeply, unconcerned by the busy room.

I nipped his bottom lip. “Best birthday yet.”

I didn’t need a resolution this year. If anything, I’d need as much status quo as possible, considering the changes I’d be facing: meeting my mother, balancing my job and interests with my man and my friends, sustaining a long-distance relationship.

August’s warm gaze roved over my face. “You sure you’re doing okay?”

Staring up at him, my answer came easily. “Surprisingly, yes. Tomorrow will be a different story, but we have now.”

“Our seconds,” he whispered.

“Every last one,” I agreed.

Two Years and Seven Seconds Later

August

My strut offstage wasn’t pretty. I nearly bailed over a set of cables, I accidentally knocked over the water glass I’d had the roadies set out, and I almost dropped my guitar while handing it off. Getting my hands on Gwen trumped a smooth exit.

Fans were great. Performing was a rush. Nothing beat wrapping her in my arms, especially when it had been three long weeks.

She grinned when I stepped backstage, clapping like it was the first time she’d seen me in concert. “You were amazing.”

I lifted her up and pressed my face into her neck. “Missed you so fucking much.”

She giggled when I bit her collarbone. “I couldn’t get here fast enough. Wish I could have caught the start of the show.” She said this while covering my face in kisses. I landed a dirty one on her mouth.

My brother wolf-whistled, obnoxiously enough to pull us apart. “You don’t get paid more for the peep show.”

I snagged a guitar pick from my pocket and flicked it at him. “Might need to amend my contract.”

He failed to bat away my pathetic assault and the pick hit his cheek. He curled his lip playfully. “Doubt Uncle Rex will be flexible, but I could book you at Hunk-O-Mania. Bet those women would slide money down your G-string if you show skin.”

Having Finch as my manager had invigorated my North American career, enough that I could split my time between Europe and here. Unfortunately, it came with his smart mouth. “The only woman I strip for is right here.” I kissed Gwen again.

Finch groaned. “You guys need to keep the PDA on lockdown.”

Gwen blew him a kiss. “Not a chance.”

Grumbling, he marched off, and I breathed in all things Gwen. “Happy birthday, Possum. Sorry it’s slightly late.”

“Doesn’t matter. It’s the best one yet.”

“You say that every year.”

“I mean it every year.”

If we were alone, I’d make sure nothing beat this year’s celebration. I’d glide her zipper down and slip my hand into her panties, coat my fingers in her wetness and make her shudder. Then I’d make love to her all night. All morning, too. Man, did I miss her.

I’d arrived in San Francisco late this afternoon, had hightailed it to the Blue-Eyed Raven before Gwen had finished work. She, of course, had to spend time with Rachel and Ainsley before making the show. Our whirlwind of a life.