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“Jax told me you know everything now. How’s that going?” Blunt and to the point—I like him already.
“I’m not going to lie. Coming through that mess out there was intense, but that has nothing to do with who Jaxton was. Besides, we have this… connection. It’s hard to put into words.” That’s the only way I can attempt to describe our relationship.
Liam relaxes the last bit after examining my expression and finding nothing but honesty. “Welcome to the family, then.”
His simple acceptance releases the nervous energy sitting on my shoulders, slipping off with laughter. “Thanks, Liam. Jax tells me you and Lennox are modeling for book covers. He also said you’re a closeted dark romance reader. Is this true?” Leaning closer, I eagerly wait for his response.
He grunts. “Jax’s got a big mouth—but since your family, the answer is yes to both questions.”
A squeal may have slipped free as I bounce excitedly on the couch, scooting closer. “That’s my favorite genre. I don’t remember seeing you on any covers. I’d remember.”
His smile grows. “Are you saying I’m attractive, Avery?”
I laugh, slapping his shoulder with the back of my hand, already having put him in the BIL zone. The brother-in-law zone is perfect territory for him. It’s moments like this that make me wish my life was a reverse harem, but alas, I’ll live vicariously through my books. “There’s no way you need my validation, Liam. You know you’re attractive.”
“Modest and beautiful. My brother better watch out for competition.” We cackle again, but then he answers. “We’ve been on a few. You know the INFECTED series? It’s a post-apocalyptic dark romance.”
My eyes widen, recognition flittering through my consciousness. “Oh my, yes! I love that series. Which books are yours and which are Lennox’s?”
“I did book two and four. Lennox did one and three.”
“That’s so cool. I told Jax that I was going to compare notes with you on which books to read. When I find the time, I’d like to smut it up.”
A burst of amusement breaks his lips. “Avery, you’re a fresh glass of water. I’m looking forward to having you around.”
Before I can respond, Jaxton exits the hall fully dressed and ready to go. His eyes light up when he sees us sitting together. “Did he behave himself?” he asks, before dropping next to me and kissing my neck.
“Mm… You smell good.” I whisper. “And yes. He was fine.”
“You’re going to be the death of me.” He growls in frustration.
A grin spreads wide at his expression. “I’m good with that.”
His eyes snap to his brother’s. “You here tonight?”
“More than likely. You staying over with Avery again?”
“Not sure yet. I’ll be sure to check in.”
“Sounds good.” Liam stands. “Hope to see you again soon, Avery.” He struts slowly out of the room, causing my gaze to linger.
“Kitten, you’re going to give me a complex—you keep staring at my brother’s ass.”
My eyes round and gaze snaps at him, which is met with a comical expression, letting me know he’s messing with me. “Can you blame me? I don’t think I can meet the rest of your family. Lennox is Liam’s twin, so there’s no hope there, but I bet the other two are just as bad.” By now, I’m almost muttering to myself, until an idea plants. “Would you consider living a reverse harem?”
Jaxton’s eyes darken as he stalks toward me, kicking my heart rate into overdrive, reacting exactly as I expected. “I already told you once, Kitten, so listen closely. I. Do. Not. Share.” He dominates me just as thoroughly as he’s possessed my soul. “Let’s go before I skip work and keep you here all day to prove to you who owns this pussy.” His hand slips under my dress, cupping me over my underwear.
When we exit the front entrance to get into the car, we’re accompanied by two large gentlemen, which I assume are bodyguards. Once we’re outside, the frenzy begins. Only this time, the bodyguards prevent people from getting into our personal space. Jaxton opens the passenger door, waiting for me to get situated, before moving to the driver’s side. Before he enters the car, he and the two bodyguards argue. I can’t decipher their words, since his door is closed and the crescendo of voices surrounds us.
I’m concentrating only on Jaxton’s disagreement, so I don’t notice a man creeping up to my window and attempting to open my door. The clicking of my door startles me, and I yelp in surprise. Flashes erupt next to my window and seconds later, the bodyguards are dragging him away. I’m staring at the altercation in shock. The audacity and lengths that some people would go to for a picture.
Jaxton concentrates on driving us away from the madhouse and not killing any reporters or fans who seem to refuse to get out of the car’s way. We’re now officially behind schedule, as Jaxton speeds down the road.
His jaw is clenching, and his knuckles are white on the steering wheel. “Is everything okay?”
“No. They’re our bodyguards. I slipped them yesterday when I stayed over at your place. You’ve seen what my life is like, and that’s only a small taste. They’re for protection, and I’m supposed to bring them with me everywhere I go.”
My eyes widened at his confession. “Will those people hurt you? Is that why you have to have bodyguards?” The thought of some crazed fan or paparazzi hurting him causes me to shiver.
