Page 74 of 1001 Dark Nights: Bundle Forty-Seven

Devon felt as if the room and all the people surrounding her faded away. It was like one of those movies she’d watch and make fun of, not imagining any man holding that type of rapt attention in the middle of a noisy, glittering crowd.

But Jameson Franklin owned her with each step closer. He eased past tight clusters of groups with his gaze fastened only on her.

“You look beautiful.”

The compliment was simple, but it was the hunger and want in his stare that made the words come alive. Her voice was husky when she managed to speak. “So do you.”

A smile touched his lips. “Are you happy with the way things turned out?”

“Yes, everything’s perfect.” Devon couldn’t stop herself from reaching out and touching his red tie. “You dressed up for Christmas.”

His smile deepened. “I dressed up for you, Devon.”

The breath whooshed out of her lungs. The sexual tension swirled around them like a cloud. It took her a few moments to realize people glanced at them curiously, as if they noticed the connection. Thank goodness she was used to it and didn’t care.

But poor Jameson may find himself the main topic of gossip tomorrow that had nothing to do with the dogs.

Still, she didn’t move away. “Last week, you warned me the food would be simple so you didn’t waste money.”

“That’s right.”

“I see lobster rolls, scallops wrapped with bacon, mini sliders, and crab cakes. Those aren’t cheap.”

His shoulders moved in a shrug. “I had leftovers.”

“You’re making specialty cocktails, too. I was informed there would only be budget wine and light beer.”

“We used the cheap vodka and no-name rum. Your dress makes me think of bad things.”

She jerked. Her heart pounded wildly and her body peaked at his words, ready to play. Devon had taken particular care with her outfit for this exact reason. The silky, gold fabric wrapped around her like a present, clinging to all her curves. The V-neckline was generous. She’d twisted her hair up in an elegant braid that showed off her naked skin. “Bad in a bad way? Or bad in a good way?”

A low growl escaped his throat. “Oh, very good. Uncomfortably good.”

“That is a slim cut designer suit you’re wearing. Must be difficult.”

He threw back his head and laughed. More glances cut their way. She grinned, cheeks flushed, and wished desperately they were alone. Suddenly, Jameson reached out and snagged her around the waist, a public declaration so bold and so sexy, shivers raced down her spin. “Devon—”

Jordan interrupted with her usual drama, sporting a black mini dress that showed off her perfect legs. “There you are! I was stuck outside while Dooby played ball. Sistine got trapped by Caesar, who won’t shut up about the influx of city peoplebuying all the properties and renting out to tourists, so she needs rescuing ASAP. Oh, hi, Jameson.”

He dropped his hand from her waist and pushed his glasses back up the bridge of his nose. “Nice to see you again, Jordan.”

Jordan grunted, obviously not sharing the sentiment.

Devon bit her lip as her bestie treated him to a cold look. The last time they’d spoken, Jameson had been enemy number one. With all the chaos this week, and her friend buried in wedding dress madness, they hadn’t spoken. She’d have some explaining to do once Devon admitted she’d had a complete change of heart and was now seriously thinking of dragging the enemy into her bed.

Devon grabbed her friend’s hand. “Let’s go get Sistine,” she said brightly, shooting Jameson an apologetic look. “I love your dress.”

“Thanks. You look gorgeous as usual.” Jordan tossed her hair in dismissal and followed her across the room. “I’m sorry I couldn’t save you sooner from the asshole. Ugh, it was like he stuck like glue to your side. Gross.”

She winced. “So, about that. I forgot to tell you that things have changed. He’s not a bad guy after all.”

Jordan rolled her dark eyes. “Riiight. He just ruined Vintage, tried to cancel the Fur Gala, fired Santa, and tried to get you to do all the work for this event last minute. He’s a Georgia peach.”

“No, Jordan, I mean it. He’s not what we thought. He’s…kind of nice.”

“You’ve had too much to drink. You didn’t smoke before this, did you?”

A frustrated laugh escaped her lips. “No!”

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