Page 64 of The Dixon Rule

I fling my hands up and down to gesture at my skin-tight black dress. It’s completely backless and sexy as hell. So is the rest of me, if I do say so myself. My hair is up in a top knot. Lips are bloodred. Dangly earrings hang from my earlobes, and crisscross strappy shoes accentuate my tanned legs, the heels not too high that I can’t dance in them. Although really, I could probably dance in anything.

I scope out Shane’s ex-girlfriend, not surprised to find that she’s absolutely gorgeous. She has glossy, dark hair that’s stick straight but has some volume. Her features are flawless, and so is her skin. She’s got pouty lips and brown eyes that flicker with curiosity when they meet mine. And maybe I’m imagining it, but I swear I glimpse a glimmer of annoyance too.

“Hi,” I say brightly, smiling at the couple. “I’m Diana. Sorry to barge in.”

She smiles back. Whatever I saw in her eyes is gone, replaced by a friendly expression. “I’m Lynsey. This is Tyreek.”

“Nice to meet you guys.” I turn to Shane. “Please tell me you have some alcohol here because I really need a drink.”

“What are you in the mood for?”

“You know what I like,” I say coyly, then sit on the chaise part of the sectional. As I bend over to start undoing my shoes, I glance at the other couple. “Zero loyalty,” I tell them.

“What?” Tyreek asks, looking amused. He’s an attractive guy with a shaved head and a nice smile but definitely not as hot as Shane.

“My best friend,” I clarify. “She has no loyalty. Ditched me tonight for a man.” I sigh. “She’s in the honeymoon phase. Literally, because they just got married.”

“Oh, right.” Lynsey surprises me by nodding. “Luke.”

I falter for a second before realizing that of course she must know Shane’s friends. I need to be careful about what I say regarding Ryder.

“Yeah, my best friend Gigi married him,” I reply. “Which, you know, romantic and all. But now they’re joined at the hip, and this is the second time she’s canceled girls’ night in three weeks.”

“What club were you going to?” Tyreek asks.

“Mist. Ladies get in free on Friday nights.”

Yes, I did my research before I walked over here. I’m not an amateur.

Shane returns, smirking slightly. I realize why when I notice what he’s holding. I have to bite my tongue not to growl at him.

“Whiskey. Neat. Just how you like it.” He arches a brow.

Oh, so that’s how it’s going to be? He knows I can’t stand the taste of whiskey. Asshole. The only reason I gave him beverage carte blanche was because I figured he’d do something cute to make Lynsey jealous. Like bring me a wine cooler with a little umbrella sticking out of the can.

His evil look makes me resist a glare. “Thank you, Boyfriend.”

I accept the very full lowball glass. With a big smile, I take a teeny sip and try not to gag.

Room temperature whiskey is vile.

“That’s your drink of choice?” Tyreek sounds impressed. “Never met a woman who drank straight whiskey.”

“Oh, sure. It’s my thing. I love it.” My stomach is on fire. This is what I get for doing Shane Lindley a favor.

“Here, let me help you with this, baby.”

Next thing I know, Shane is on his knees undoing the straps of my other heel.

Despite myself, a shiver travels up my leg and tingles between my thighs.

“Thanks,” I say, my throat a bit husky.

His hand lingers on my ankle. He gives it a light stroke before getting up to join me on the couch. He sits with his legs splayed and pulls me close to him, throwing a muscular arm around me. He smells good. Like soap and sandalwood, and a hint of spicy aftershave.

“I know you’re upset about the club, but I’m not exactly complaining that it didn’t pan out.” He brings his lips close to my ear. “You look so fucking good.” He whispers those words but loud enough that I know Lynsey and Tyreek can hear him.

“Aw, thanks, babe.” I turn my head slightly and our lips are suddenly millimeters apart.

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