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“So it was my duty as his best friend to get him in a little trouble every once in a while."
“I think you took that duty a little too seriously,” Luke says.
Brody puts his hands up. “All I’m saying is if you catch any glimpse of a bad boy beneath the boy scout exterior, you have me to thank.”
I laugh. “Thank you in advance."
Brody chuckles. We’re interrupted by a few men in uniform who want to meet the pro quarterback and he excuses himself to chat with them for a bit.
“See, told you he was normal,” Luke says.
I smile up at him. Our eyes meet and heat flows between us again.
“Hey, lovebirds. There are people around. Take the sexual tension down a notch or two,” Brody says, snapping me out of my trance. I blush and avert my gaze. He sips his whiskey, regarding us with a smile. That Luke can make me forget Brody Metzer is sitting next to me gives me the warm and fuzzies and I lean into him. He accepts my weight as he and Brody catch up. I tune them out for a second as I take stock of my swirling emotions.
The servers bring the food out and we enjoy the delicious meal. Several people in uniforms take the stage and discuss the charity. Tank steps up to the podium and tears trickle down my face when he talks about his failed suicide attempt. He works for the charity now to help other veterans like him. He thanks Luke and makes him stand. Luke shakes his head in exasperation but stands and waves as people clap and cheer for him. He returns to his seat the second Tank returns to his speech.
“Luke is always our biggest contributor. His generosity has saved countless lives. I wouldn’t be standing here today if it wasn’t for him. Literally and figuratively,” Tank says.
The crowd chuckles as he shows off his leg. Tank finishes and the MC announces dessert is served, and then we’re free to take over the dance floor. I dig around in my clutch for a tissue, but Luke reaches out and wipes my tears away with his thumb.
I want to tell him how incredible he is, but my throat is too clogged with emotion.
We chat with Brody, and I sip my wine while I get my shit together. A while later, Luke places his hand on my thigh and leans next to my ear.
“Come dance with me, pretty girl,” he says.
Luke guides me to the dance floor and pulls me into him as we sway to the jazzy tune.
“I have a surprise for you.” My heart races at what I’m about to tell him.
His eyes twinkle. “Oh yea? What’s that?”
My hand slides to the back of his neck and he leans down so I can whisper in his ear. I muster up what I hope is my sexiest voice. “I’m not wearing any underwear.”
He jerks back with wide eyes that darken. I peer up at him through my lashes as my mind comes up with ways to please him.
“Fuck, Liv.” He swallows and leans his mouth next to my ear. “Let’s find a closet so I can taste you.” His voice is deep and gravelly, and my core throbs with every word. I meet his gaze, trying to determine if he’s serious or not.
I’m about to respond when someone clears their throat. “May I cut in?” Ed asks.
I bite my lip to hide my laughter when all I see is disappointment on Luke’s face, but he lets out a resigned sigh and turns to Ed with a smile. “Of course.”
I take Edgar’s hand and we sway to the song. Luke steps off to the side and chats with Tank.
“You look lovely,” Ed says.
“Thank you.”
“You’ve caused quite the commotion in the office. Our Luke can’t stop talking about you.” He chuckles and twirls me around. “Thank you for putting that smile on his face. I’m not his father, but I can say with no doubt James would have adored you.”
My eyes sting. “Thank you, Ed. That’s very kind. I care very much for Luke. He’s amazing.”
“That he is. He will take good care of you. Just be sure what he’s offering you is what you want.”
I frown. “What do you mean?”
“Well, he’ll be traveling a lot for Reilly Tech. He’ll be getting attention wherever he goes. And he’ll be giving attention back. You’ll need to be comfortable with that.”
