Page 20 of Safe and Sound

“Funny. But I’m looking for an older man who has the experience.”

“Trust me. I can fuck any older man under the table.”

“Is that right?”

“While he can get hard maybe once a night, I can go three rounds.”

“Let me guess. As cocky as you are, you must be an athlete or celebrity?”

“I own this club.”

Ava gasped. “Youdo?”

“My brothers and I do.”

Instead of being impressed, horror swept over her face. “Oh God, I assaulted a club owner,” she murmured while sweeping her hand to her forehead.

“From your reaction, I assume you’re not usually a ninja assassin.”

A nervous giggle burst from her lips. “Me? God no. I mean, I’ve used my moves from time to time with handsy men.”

“They’re pretty impressive.”

“Thanks. Two intermediate self-defense classes from the YMCA.”

“The YMCA? I never would’ve guessed it.”

“Don’t tell me you thought I was an ex-marine or something?” Ava countered.

“As much of a ball-buster as you are, it wouldn’t surprise me.”

Ava laughed, and fuck me, did I like the sound of it. “Surely, it isn’t part of your job to save damsels in distress?”

“Some nights.” With a wink, I added, “But you would argue you weren’t in distress.”

“That’s right.”

“Why don’t you let me show you how sorry I am by buying you a drink?”

“You just don’t stop with the pick-up lines, do you?’

I laughed. “Like I mentioned before, I have great stamina.”

“Spare me.”

“Truth is, I usually don’t have any lines. Women just throw themselves at me.”

“I’m sure owning a club, along with your good looks, doesn't hurt.”

“They help, but the charm seals the deal.”

With a wry smile, she replied, “Listen, thanks for getting rid of that guy and in turn not having your men throw me out.”

“Come on now, I’m serious. Let me at least buy you a drink.”

“I think I’ve had enough excitement for one evening.”

“Having a douchebag hump all over you is unfortunate and degrading, not exciting.”

---