Page 55 of Risky Move

“You’d like something more than friendship?” The corners of Lauren’s mouth twitched.

“Doesn’t matter, Lauren. Nothing will happen.”

Lauren raised an eyebrow. “You didn’t see his expression when he spoke to Cam…looked like he feels more than friendship. Just saying.”

“He probably thinks of me as a kid.”

Lauren hugged her before she stood. “Maybe not. He has Cam believing you two are more than friends. If you like him, be open to the possibilities. Maybe flirt a little?”

Cassie tossed a ball at her when she headed for the door.In my dreams…

* * *

Despite what she said to her aunt, Cassie floated on a cloud the rest of the day. The memory of Tom’s hand pressed against her lower back, and that unexpected kiss—even if it was just on the forehead—held her aloft. She’d never had someone act protective on her behalf—even though sheknewTom had slipped into a big brother role.It’s just the way he makes me feel…safe…I can handle Cam—but I love that my doc delivered the message for me.

She could still feel the heat of Tom’s hand and the little electrical surges that had pulsed through her body. Sometimes she thought she saw something in his eyes that hinted at more than friendship…and those kisses that left her wishing the roadblocks didn’t exist. Despite what Lauren said, Cassie knew that anything beyond friendship wasn’t possible…or probable.

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Andrew’s hypothetical comment replayed on a loop in Tom’s mind.Did he and/or Caryn notice my attraction to Cassie? Or did that comment stem from my face-off with Camden? Maybe not as subtle as I thought.Objections or not, Andrew’s “blessing” didn’t address his own reservations about getting involved with Cassie beyond the “friendship” they now maintained.Though we’ve already strayed beyond strict friendship…can’t put a label on this.I don’t see her as a friend. I look at her differently than Lauren, Kelly, or Terri. They’ve never played a role in my fantasies, but Cassie—a frequent visitor.He thought she shared some of the same feelings, but she’d voiced the same reservations he had about acting on their mutual attraction.

He smiled when he thought about her feisty attitude. She could handle Cam on her own, no doubt about that.But when he grabbed her arm, I reacted without thinking.Camden gets under my skin with all that cockiness and little respect for women. He’s not the only “player” on the team—not by a long shot—so, why should I let him push my buttons? Because it involves Cassie? Absolutely.

Deciding exercise might clear his brain, Tom changed into his swim trunks and grabbed a towel. Forty-five minutes, or even an hour swimming laps…an excellent place to start.

* * *

The twins crashed earlier than usual after the full day’s activities, and Cassie brought her iPad to the pool deck.Time for a fun romantic comedy…jump into another world. No more obsessing about what Lauren said, Cam’s annoying persistence, or Tom’s actions. I can’t read anything into that other than Tom acted as a friend, a gentleman. But just thinking about it gives me goosebumps.

She settled comfortably on the chaise lounge and placed her water bottle on the table beside her. Within minutes, the story completely drew her into its world. The awkward heroine and the clueless sexy, hot hero had her flipping pages on her iPad. She didn’t notice anyone’s presence beside her until Tom’s voice interrupted her thoughts.

“Good book?”

“Tom, I didn’t hear you come out here.” Cassie pressed the digital bookmark and set the tablet beside her. She nodded at his swim trunks. “Planning to work off your Thanksgiving feast?”

“I need to. Hey, I hope I didn’t overstep things during your ‘encounter’ with Mr. Camden today. I don’t want to imply you can’t handle him or need help.”

Without thinking, Cassie placed her hand on his arm. She caught the questioning look in his darkened, cinnamon eyes, plus something else she couldn’t decipher.

“You kept me from making a scene. That means a lot to me—I would have embarrassed myself in front of many people when I slapped him.” She watched the relieved smile cross his face. “I kind of enjoyed that a knight in shining armor had my back.”

“When he grabbed your arm, I didn’t think…just reacted. I’m sorry if I made you uncomfortable.”

Cassie laughed. “The only one you made uncomfortable was Cam—I hope! I’m fine, truly. Thanks for a timely assist.”

“I’d say anytime, but I hope that guy gets his act together.”

Cassie watched as Tom looked at the pool and stood. He glanced at her before walking toward it. “Would you be interested in going out some night when we’re both free? Dinner, a movie, something fun?”

“I’d love to.” Cassie suppressed her excitement and eagerness. “You mean, like a…”

“Like a date, yes,” Tom finished her thought. “I’d enjoy sharing some of my favorite places in Tampa with you.” Cassie saw the corners of his mouth quirk in a smile. “Do I need to clear this with Lauren?”

Cassie shook her head with a chuckle. “I’m an adult. Besides, I don’t think Lauren will have any objections.”

* * *

Although their schedules hadn’t meshed, Tom and Cassie began exchanging texts several times a day. Cassie looked forward to her phone pinging…nothing earth-shaking, just questions about her day and sharing bits and pieces of his. Then they started playing twenty-questions, such as favorite song, Marvel or DC, Star Wars or Star Trek, favorite all-time book, Top Chef or British Baking Show, Fixer Upper or Property Brothers, Disney Plus or Apple TV+.

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