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“It will be, and that’s why I give staff time off at New Year’s to recuperate.”
“I’ll be recuperating at Coconut Bay in Saint Martin, with bare feet in the sand and a fruity drink in my hand.”
I pictured Andrew lying on the beach in his tiny black speedo, muscles glistening, that wide smile lighting up his whole face.Was I too old for a Christmas wish? Santa, I want a sexy American named Drew.
“I’m glad you took my recommendation. It’s a beautiful estate, very private, and the owners are so welcoming. You’ll have a wonderful time. If you need any restaurant suggestions, please let me know.”
“Thanks. The hotel is gay friendly, but what about the local bars?”
I was momentarily lost for words. Not surprisingly, Andrew wanted to socialize on his time off and have fun. Sexy fun. With some hot guy. Or guys. Random men I wanted to eviscerate for touching him. My head began to throb. Thank God I’d taken my blood pressure meds this morning, or I’d probably be halfway to a stroke by now.
The very idea of Andrew having sex with another man made my stomach seize. With a deep breath, I managed to calm the inner caveman that Andrew inspired before I did or said something monumentally stupid. Likedon’t go, stay here on the yacht with me.Instead, I gave my best-selling smile.
“Both sides of the island have bars that are gay friendly. Lavender is one place I highly recommend. It’s got a great beachfront patio and dancing at night, and it’s very popular. Most places will have a rainbow heart icon in their window. It’s one of the most accepting islands, so you should be fine. Feel free to ask the owner of the hotel, Jasper, or his husband, Xavier. They’d be happy to guide you.”
“I will, thanks, Rowan.”
“You’re very welcome. Now, I have a long list of phone calls to make. As do you, so I won’t keep you.”
Andrew walked over to the door but hesitated after turning the handle.
“Was there something else you wanted to ask me?”
Andrew’s sultry eyes met mine, and that undeniable spark between us flared to life. It had been so long since I allowed myself to look at him that way, but I swallowed down my desire.
“It was nothing. Radio if you need me.”
I nodded instead of replying, and Andrew left the room. I needed him alright. Every day we spent together and the more I learned about Andrew, it made the wanting that much worse. The gnawing hunger kept growing, intensifying, burning away at my tightly locked control.
Andrew would do well to keep that fire extinguisher on hand. There was a good chance we’d use it sooner rather than later.
* * *
ANDREW
I stepped into the hallway and closed the door behind me, trying to calm my runaway heart. I’d come so close to asking Rowan if he’d want to join me in Saint Martin for dinner one evening. Then I reminded myself that Rowan was a) my boss and b) a billionaire with men on speed dial. Reality to the rescue.
“Hey!”
I turned to find Dylan sauntering down the hallway in his signature jeans, T-shirt, and cowboy hat, pulling his suitcase behind him. “All set?”
“Yup, I’m ready to roll. Is Rowan busy? I want to say goodbye.”
“Go on in.” I moved aside so Dylan could head into Rowan’s office. “You should’ve called Kayla to get your suitcase hauled up.”
“Nah, I didn’t want to bother anyone with one piece of luggage. I’m not a spoiled princess like Ro,” Dylan joked.
“No, you’re not. But you’re still our guest, so I’ll bring your suitcase up while you say your goodbyes.”
“Thanks Drew. Look, I hope you don’t mind, but I’d like to stay in touch. It’s not often that I make new friends.” He paused. “Real friends. If you’re ever headed out to California, let me know. And maybe if I find my way to Georgia sometime, I’ll do the same.”
“You got it. Text me anytime,” I replied as Dylan held out his hand. I stepped forward and gave him a quick hug instead. He seemed shocked by the gesture but hugged me in return.
“I hope all goes well with writing your book.”
Dylan grasped the back of his neck. “Thanks. I’m fucking nervous to meet this ghostwriter. My agent just sent me his bio, and he’s got three degrees while I barely finished college.”
“You’ll do fine. It’s your story, so you set the pace.”
