Page 88 of On The Rocks

“And trouble.” Griffin slapped him on the arm. “Try the brunette near the swing. She’s looking very third wheel-like and annoyed at her friends.”

“Yeah?” The guy looked toward the swing. “Thanks, man.” He moved through the couples to the hill.

“Playing matchmaker?” Justin grinned at him. “Where’s mine?”

“As if you need help finding a woman.”

I laughed as Kira and I stepped forward. “Thanks for diffusing,” I said to Griffin. “It’s been a busy night.”

“I know. I barely could get into the parking lot.” Griffin frowned down at me, pushing a strand of hair out of my face. “Did you get a break?”

Kira spoke up. “No, she hasn’t.”

“I’m out here to check on things.” I folded my arms over my chest.

“I know. So, walk around and get away for a few.” I was about to push back when Kira put her mom face on. “Nope. You need a break.”

Griffin settled his hand along the back of my neck. “I’ll keep her out of trouble.”

Justin snorted. “Sure, pal.”

I tried to shake Griffin off. “I’m working.”

He stroked his thumb along the space between my neck and shoulder. “You’re on break.”

“He’s got you there.” Justin glanced over his shoulder as another fight warmed up. “And I guess I’m the bouncer tonight.” He took off. “Hey, guys!”

Kira craned her neck, but soon, she relaxed. “He’s got it.”

“We might want to think about bouncers for Saturday nights if this keeps up.”

Kira nodded. “Already ahead of you. I’m going to put some feelers out for anyone looking for work. We’ve never had to worry about it before, but it looks like things might be changing.” She waved us off. “Now go on before we need you back.”

“I don’t need a break.”

“You do,” Griffin interjected. “Just ten minutes.”

“Fine.”

Kira disappeared toward the outdoor bar where CJ was working, and I relaxed even more. At least Kira would get her a break too.

Griffin pulled me into his chest. “I couldn’t get near you all night.”

Giving up on the pretense, I pressed my cheek against his chest. “I didn’t even know you were here.”

He led me away from the patio. The overhead string of Edison bulbs lit the way into the maze of privacy trees that created quieter areas for people to sit or enjoy the music when the concerts were going. He sat in one of the Adirondack chairs and pulled me into his lap.

“Don’t get any ideas,” I said as I swung my legs across him to rest on the wide arm of the chair.

“I always have ideas.” He draped his arm over my thighs, then peered down at the deep vee I’d cut in my T-shirt. “I don’t think that’s part of the original uniform.” He tucked his finger into my cleavage with a grin.

“Helps when you’re the assistant boss. And last time I have to wear it.”

Shameless, he dipped his hand in and cupped my breast under my bra, lightly grazing my nipple.

“Excuse you.”

“Just a touch...” He lowered his mouth to my neck and stroked until my nipple hardened. “Salty,” he whispered as he dragged his lips up behind my ear.

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