Page 37 of Five Alarm Kiss

Jake didn’t miss the wistful expression that crossed her features before she shrugged it off.

“Personally, I think you’ve got the harder job,” he told her. “College kids choose to be there. Grade schoolers have no choice.”

Laurel studied him like she wasn’t quite sure what to make of him. “That’s an odd way to look at it.”

Shit.Did I just put my foot in my mouth?

“I think what Jake means…” Emery began, shooting him a look.

Yep. Way to go, Lockwood.

“… is that since college kids are paying to be there and don’t show up, that’s not on you. But if one of your students doesn’t want to be there, you probably take it personally. I know I would.”

“Exactly what I meant,” Jake said. It wasn’t, but…

Laurel studied him a moment, before conceding, “I do.” She turned back to Emery. “It’s hard not to. After pre-school, I’m their first introduction to ‘big school,’ as one of my kids put it. I don’t want to mess it up for them.”

Jake marveled at the affection in her expression when she talked about her class over dinner. Hell, she’d even referred to them as “her kids.” The fondness she held for her students and the joy they brought her was palpable. No doubt, she was a great teacher. And he was secretly thrilled she taught at a grade schoolbecause college guys would be studying her instead of anything she’d be trying to teach them.

He bristled at the thought. He didn’t want any guy studying her but him, which wasn’t his typical reaction. He was used to guys checking out his dates. It didn’t bother him if they wanted to steal the girl he was with, and it definitely didn’t hurt his ego, but with Laurel? It bothered him. It bothered him a lot.

“And the way Laurel told him off for being late to her class without actually saying the words?” Gage smirked at Jake. “Priceless.”

Jake realized he hadn’t been paying attention. Gage was talking about their visit to Laurel’s class, and he’d only now noticed. He’d been too busy mentally warding men away from her. He needed to get it together.

“I wish I could’ve been there,” Emery said. “I love seeing Jake embarrass himself... not that he doesn’t give me ample opportunity.”

Laurel laughed.

“Glad you think you’re so funny,” Jake told Emery.

“I really am,” she agreed with a smile.

“Yes, you are.” Gage put his arm around her and kissed her temple. “In your own mind.”

Emery slapped his chest.

Laurel turned to Jake. “Youwerereally late.”

Gage opened his mouth to say something, but Emery pointed a finger in his face. “Don’t say a word,” she warned, obviously anticipating him commenting about her questionable punctuality again. “Unless you like sleeping on the couch.”

He chuckled. “I’m sorry.” He gave her a quick kiss. “You know I’d much rather sleep with you.”

“I was beginning to worry you weren’t coming,” Laurel told Jake. “The kids would’ve been so disappointed. But I guess Ihave to give you a pass this time, since I just did the same thing to you. Sorry again.”

“Stop apologizing.” Jake didn’t miss how she’d said “this time.” That implied she planned on seeing him again, didn’t it? “I’m sorry too.” He covered her hand with his own. “But I tried to make it up to you.”

God, I need to kiss her again.

The intriguing mix of sexy innocence she possessed was going to be his downfall.

He brushed his thumb along her skin and felt a tremor run through her. She felt it too… this crazy pull between them. He was sure of it.

Emery shifted toward Laurel. “So, you never told me. How did you guys meet?”

“Umm…” Laurel pulled her hand out from underneath his and started nervously playing with the straw in her soda, pumping it up and down in her drink.

Jake swallowed.

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