Page 8 of Memphis

“Oh? What’s that?”

“It’s a beautiful, sunshiny day. Why don’t you both go put on your swimsuits and spend a little time out by the pool? It’ll be great. I can bring some food and drinks out, and you two can have a little time to catch up while I tend to the party.”

“I don’t know, Mom. I need to be gettin’ back.”

“Don’t be silly. You just got here,” she argued. “Besides, it’s my birthday, and I want a chance to spend a little time with my son.”

“I don’t have a suit.”

“There’s one in the guest room. Second drawer on the left.” Kay turned her attention to me as she said, “You have a couple of your old suits in your room, don’t you, dear?”

“I believe so.”

“Great. Then, it’s settled.” She basically shooed us away as she said, “I’ll send some refreshments out in a bit.”

Weston looked over to me and shook his head in defeat. Hoping to make light of the situation, I smiled and said, “At least it’s pretty out, and the pool is heated.”

He gave me a nod, then started down the hall to the guest room. I took that as my cue to go get changed. I went to my room and started sorting through my various old swimsuits. Most of them were bikinis that were at least one size too small and not appropriate to wear, especially with guests around. I didn’t really care for it, but I decided that the one-piece was my best option.

I quickly changed, then grabbed a couple of towels from the linen closet. I made my way outside, and my stomach did a nosedive when I saw that Weston was already there and sprawled out on a lounge chair. There were a couple of drinks and a plate of cheese and crackers sitting on the table. But I had no interest in the food or drinks.

My mind was totally on Weston.

He was watching me.I could feel the heat of his stare as I walked over and sat down on the lounger next to him. I tossed one of the towels at his feet as I told him, “Thought you might want one.”

“Yeah, thanks,” he replied, flashing me a warm smile as he kicked it to the side. “Not exactly how I planned to spend the day.”

“Yeah, I’d just planned to stop by for a few minutes.”

“Well, I guess we’ll just have to make the best of it.” He cocked his brow. “Why don’t you tell me about this new boyfriend of yours.”

“He’s not my boyfriend. He’s just a guy I’ve gone out with a couple of times.”

“Alright. Then, tell me about this guy you’ve gone out with a couple of times.”

“There’s not much to tell.”

“Oh, come on. There’s gotta be something.”

He stood, and I couldn't tear my eyes away as he stepped over to the edge of the pool. He was just so damn good looking. His chest was defined, rippling with muscles, and his arms were equally strong and powerful. And then there were his tattoos. I wasn’t usually into that sort of thing, but on him, they were hot—smoking hot.

Weston caught me staring and chuckled softly.

Before I could think of something witty to say, he dove into the pool. Seconds later, he popped up and wiped the water from his eyes. “You keep looking at me like that, and I might think you’re more into me than your fella.”

“You’re delusional.” I rolled my eyes. “I’m not interested in you at all.”

“Hm-hmm. Keep telling yourself that.”

I felt my cheeks flush, but I couldn't bring myself to look away. “You’re such an asshole.”

“Just stating facts, babe.”

“Well, if you must know, the guy’s name is Johnny, and he’s one of the auditors at my office.”

“Ahh, a work romance.” A cocky smirk crossed his face. “Living on the edge.”

“At least I’m trying to put myself out there.”

---