Page 113 of Defensive Zone

“Should I go for that spot behind your ear that makes you shiver next?” he whispered. “Or maybe the backs of your knees? If we were alone, my mouth would be between your thighs so my beard could tickle that sensitive flesh.”

He heard her faint moan in between laughs. He had to stop before he got too carried away. Not that his cock could get any harder. She always did that to him.

He stepped away from her and moved to the opposite side of the island to hide his reaction.

“I think she’s been sufficiently tickled. Now, let’s make breakfast. I’m starving,” he said.

Gabi was still trying to catch her breath.

“Yes. Let’s have breakfast,” Ava said, quirking her brow at Max.

He grinned back. “Pancakes?”

Ava put Elise in her little bouncer and walked into the kitchen. “Try not to scar the children, or me,” she said, her voice low.

“What?” he asked.

“I’m not an idiot. That wasn’t just tickling and you know it,” Ava said with a smirk.

“It’s Max’s fault,” Gabi said, walking to the fridge to start pulling out ingredients.

“It usually is.” Ava grabbed a skillet and set it on the stove. “I swear you two were going to set this kitchen on fire.

Max chuckled as Gabi’s face bloomed bright red. He couldn’t help it around her. She was made to be teased and loved, and he planned to do both for as long as she’d let him.

“Sorry, Av,” Gabi said.

“Nah. No big deal. I’m happy for both of you,” Ava said wistfully.

“Av,” Gabi said, hearing the tone is Ava’s voice, too.

He pulled his sister in for a hug. “Having you here with the kids is the absolute best. And you know you can tell me anything.”

She stiffened in his arms.

“It’s fine, Max. I’m fine,” she said before she stepped out of his hug.

“I know. You’re the strongest woman I know,” he said.

“Thanks. Now, let’s make some pancakes before the kids revolt and saran wrap your toilet seat.”

“Please tell me you did not teach them that.” He groaned, and Gabi laughed.

“Maybe,” Ava said with a twinkle in her eyes. She was deflecting, but he’d give it to her for now.

“I’ll protect you,” Gabi said, giving him a warm smile.

“Hey, you’re my friend first,” Ava said with mock indignation.

“I’m just leading him into a false sense of security,” Gabi whispered.

“Very funny. Now, can we make pancakes? I’m starving,” he said.

While Ava mixed up the batter, he pulled Gabi to the end of the island. “I’m really starving for you, but I guess pancakes are the next best thing.”

And then he pressed a quick kiss to her lips before she could reply.

A constant surprise.

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