Page 22 of Whiskey Neat

“Fair.”

“If you fuck other guys, I don’t want to know.”

“Same.”

“I’m not a relationship kind of guy, okay? It’s nothing personal. No matter how awesome you might be, that’s just not who I am. Don’t expect anything else and we’ll be okay.”

Oooh, okay. I get it now. He’s afraid he’ll break my heart. “We’re on the same page.”

He blows out a breath before finally reaching out to touch my cheek. “Fuck, Salem. You are so damn pretty. I can’t stop looking at you.”

“I don’t mind your eyes on me.”

His gaze lingers on my lips as he brushes his thumb across the bottom one. “We’re doing something tonight as a group, so I won’t be around until late.”

“So call me after. I am your dirty little secret, after all.”

He huffs a laugh. “Oh please. The guys will know within thirty seconds of your arrival. Honestly? They called it the minute you walked in the door.”

“Have a type, do you?”

“Just a little.”

“Lucky me.” I close the tiny gap between us and flick my tongue out across his lips. His gasp heads straight to my dick. “See you later, Indy.”

He nods, giving me that glazed-over look I’m becoming familiar with. Oh, the power. Standing, I straighten my t-shirt and point towards the door. “We should get back inside.”

I walk off, knowing he’ll follow soon enough. I like to leave them wanting. It’s how I keep them coming back.

Tonight, I’m gonna get my hands on fine-ass Indy. It’s a damn good day.

SEVEN

INDIANA

My head feels light and airy as I blow off steam with the guys. The drinks are flowing freely, and the energy is good, bringing me back to many nights almost twenty years ago. With almost no bars in town, this little chicken wings restaurant is a good substitute when you just want to put a few away.

“You did so damn good finding Oakley, Low,” Kit says. “His plans are badass.”

Lowen smiles, swishing his martini glass slightly. “I was lucky that he’s heard of me.”

“Hasn’t everyone in your industry?” Jerryn asks.

“Technically Oakley isn’t in my industry. Not to sound snobby, but there’s usually a divide between high-end designers and the contractors who do the heavy lifting. I was unusual in wanting to stay connected so I could remove obstacles instead of having a go-between assistant.” He tucks a lock of his hair behind his ear. “It just so happens Oakley is a fan of high design.”

“I think he’s a fan of the designer too.” Ridley winks. “Anyone else catch the

way he watches Lowen?”

“Sure have.” Bane chuckles. “His mouth practically waters like a cartoon character.”

Lowen waves the comments away, looking bored. “He’s not my type.”

“Why?” Jerryn asks. “Because he’s blue collar?”

Lowen scoffs. “Obviously not. I’m not a jerk.” He glances away and then back again. “He’s just…” Lowen’s pretty eyes turn glossy, but he blinks the emotion away. “If I can’t tell you guys the truth, who can I tell?”

I rub his back. “You can talk to us.”

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