Page 48 of Entice

Sierra shook her head, and Crystal laughed. Their friend certainly was passionate about not liking Damon. Even so, there was an underlying vibe of attraction from both of them.

“Coffee?” Max asked.

“Not me,” Tessa said. “I have an early meeting tomorrow.”

“Damn,” Crystal whispered. She’d hoped they could talk with Max and Sierra.

“I can run you home and come back,” Sierra said.

“I’ll take Tessa home,” Damon said, stepping outside.

“I’ll grab a cab,” Tessa countered. “Don’t worry about me.”

“Like hell you will.” Damon put a hand on her shoulder before Tessa could take a step. “Listen. I’ll keep my hands and opinions to myself.” He lifted his hands in front of him.

Crystal waited. If Tessa said no, she’d back her up.

Tessa nodded. “As long as you keep your word.”

“I always keep my word.” Damon glanced at them. “She’ll be safe with me.”

“I believe she will,” Sierra said.

Crystal wasn’t so sure, but Tessa had agreed.

“Damon will be a complete gentleman.” Jordan said.

“I gave my word. I’ll drive Tessa home, see her to her door, and then I’ll leave. Promise.” His words were solemn, but the mischief in his blue eyes made Crystal wonder.

Tessa huffed, turning to Sierra and Crystal. “Friday night. At Sierra’s place?”

“Yes,” Sierra piped up.

“Let’s go.” Tessa started walking to the parking lot, leaving Damon to catch up with her.

“Will they be all right?” Crystal asked.

“They will,” Max said. “Damon will escort her home and leave as promised. If not, he knows I’ll have his ass.”

Sierra laughed. “My hero.” She kissed his cheek.

Jordan put his arm around Crystal’s waist. “Don’t worry. Damon will be on his best behavior.” They walked down the street to the coffee shop.

“Jordan mentioned you wanted to speak with me,” Max said to Crystal once they were seated with their drinks.

She glanced at Jordan, who nodded. “It’s okay.”

“It has to do with the Sage and Brady issue.” Crystal had been trying to find another way besides Max getting on the stand as a character witness. Nothing had come to light.

“Go on,” Max said.

Crystal blew out a breath. This had been her idea. “Look, I don’t want to step on any toes or cause any issues, but since you own the club and you’ve probably known Sage and Brady the longest, I was hoping you’d testify as a character or expert witness.”

Max stared at her. “Absolutely.” Crystal blinked in astonishment. “But…” Her heart fell. “I already offered, and Sage turned me down.”

“When?” Jordan asked.

“When the civil case came to light,” Max said.

---