Page 10 of Chasing Sunrise

“That’d explain it.” He chuckled.

“You know, as a licensed counselor, if you’d like to share why you’ve chosen to take a celibacy vow, I am beholden to keep it confidential.”

“Beholden? Who says beholden?”

“Blame it on the historical books I read.”

“It’s a torrid, messy tale. You sure you want to hear it?”

“Of course. Torrid tales are always the best.” She lifted what appeared to be a strawberry daiquiri to her lips.

He hadn’t told anyone the story and was surprised it hadn’t been leaked to the public. He glanced around. His friends were busy, each giving their soulmates their undivided attention.

Tennessee Whiskycame on, and Amanda swayed in her seat. It was the first time he’d seen her slightly move to the music.

“You like this song?” he asked.

“It’s one of the few country songs I like.”

“Let’s dance.”

She narrowed her eyes. “Trying to get out of telling me your tale?”

“No. I like this song too.” He stood. “Come on, we’re going to miss it.”

“Why, yes, Kasey, I’d love to dance. Thanks for ordering me to do it.”

Her sarcasm was well-placed. “Sorry. Amanda, would you like to dance?”

“Better.”

Once on the dance floor, he faced her and clasped one of her hands, his other found her lower back, and he swept her across the floor. He’d learned long ago most girls liked a guy who danced, so he’d had his girlfriends in high school and college teach him.

Amanda’s perfume held a hint of a scent of white cake. Not cloying, simply inviting. So inviting, he wanted to press his nose to her throat and smell it full force.

It was too soon after his breakup to have such a thought. A rebound reaction to the last twenty-four hours for sure.

This song was what his dad called belly-rubbing music. Slow, with a beat that urged a couple to snuggle. As they turned, Amanda stepped too quickly. He squeezed her hand. “Let me lead.”

She frowned. “I don’t dance to country.”

“Which is why you should let me lead.”

“I’ll try.”

He gently pulled her closer and applied pressure on her hand and her hip as he guided her. “Small steps, move with me.”

She stared up at him.

Tempted to pull her even closer, he didn’t. He kept everything respectable, and her body eventually relaxed in his hold. The song ended, and a fast song came on.

She smiled. “Thank you.”

“I’ll get us drinks and meet you in the back by the dart boards. It’s less noisy back there. A strawberry daiquiri, right?”

“A virgin.”

“Well, your virgin pairs nicely with my celibacy.”

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