Page 74 of Smooth Talk

“Sorry Harp. It’s your mom. I just love her so much, sometimes being near her affects me in ways I don’t expect.”

“She can makes your voice change?”

“Among other things,” he mumbles so that only I can hear. This time a small giggle does escape. Could he be any more adorable?

“Let’s get out of here,” He places a hand on the small of my back to guide me out the door. As soon as his palm touches my bare skin, chills dance up my spine, and his steps falter. I can feel his eyes on me again. “Um, aren’t you missing part of your outfit, like… a shawl maybe?” he asks under his breath.

I smile sweetly up at him, “Nah. It’s pretty warm tonight, I don’t think I’ll need one.” There’s a slight breeze that promises to make the evening chillier than it is now, but I wouldn’t dare cover up my skin when I know he’ll be there to do it for me with his hands all night. The prospect sends chills racing over my body and heat to my core.

“There’s no back to this dress. Are you trying to kill me woman?” I suck my lips into my mouth to bite down my smile. It almost works. “Are you even wearing a bra?” He asks quietly as we get Harp into the backseat and close the door.

“I guess you’ll just have to wait to find out,” I wink, continuing to tease him. He opens my door while he stands there grumbling.

“You really are trying to kill me.”

I get my giggles under control as he rounds the front of the car. “What was that? I didn’t quite catch what you said after you shut my door.” I say as he gets in the driver seat. My smirk is astronomical.

“I said you look beautiful. I can’t wait to dance every dance with you.” Then I hear him mumble, ‘no other man will be putting his hands anywhere near you tonight.’ Ha! My plan is working perfectly. I want him all to myself. And now it seems, I’ll get exactly what I wanted.

“But da second dance!” Harper pipes up from the backseat, “Dat one’s for me.”

“Of course, it is, Harper June. And any other one you want. I’m at you and your mother’s disposal tonight and every night.” He winks and smiles broadly, unable to refuse her anything. He’s wrapped around her little finger.

Our smooth talker is escorting two very lucky ladies to the ball this evening. And make no mistake, he is ours, just as we’re his. Dance cards are full. Not just for tonight but for the rest of our lives.

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