Page 147 of Scatter the Bones

Her lips form the words “Excuse me,” as she squeezes past a group of Molly’s giggling friends.

Margot’s eyes stay locked on mine as she weaves through the crowd like I’m the only man in the room.

Every step she takes sends heat thrumming through my body.

I meet her halfway, curling a hand around her waist and tugging her closer. “There’s my little lady death.”

She throws her arms around my neck. “Sorry I’m so late,” she says in a breathless rush.

I bend down, sealing my mouth over hers for a quick, hungry kiss. But the second she groans a needy little sound and strokesher fingers against the back of my neck, I lose track of everything else. Her lips part and I sweep my tongue against hers, tasting peppermint.

She drags her nails against my scalp, sending shivers of pleasure down my spine.

A splash of cold hits my cheek.

Then several more.The fuck?

I pull away, seeking the source.

Jezzie grins at me, twirling her fingers in a glass of water like she’s about to launch round two. “Cool off, lover boy.”

“You do that?” I swipe water off my cheek.

“Sorry, I was trying not to soak Margot,” Jezzie says, not sounding sorry at all. “But I didn’t want the room to catch on fire.”

Margot lets out an embarrassed laugh but keeps her arms around my neck. “Hi, Jezzie.”

“What can I get you?” Jezzie holds her arms open wide.

“Um, just a club soda and lime, please”

“You got it.”

Jezzie hurries to the other end of the bar and Margot returns all her attention to me. “How’s the party? Talk to Griff?”

“Yeah. I think he understands the assignment.”

“Good.” She reaches up and kisses my cheek. “I’m so happy to see you.”

“Same. Been watching that door all night.”

I step back just enough to admire her. Short-sleeved purple dress hugging her curves. High collar but a cut-out dips down low, leaving her chest and the tops of her breasts on display. “You’re stunning.”

“Thank you,” she whispers, cheeks pink.

“Well, who knew there was a Mrs. Jigsaw?” someone says behind me.

That better not be fucking Quill.

I turn slowly, arm still around Margot’s waist.

Quill’s disrespectful mouth slides into an appreciative smile as he runs his gaze over her. “This your lady, Jigsaw?”

“Yes,” I growl. My hand tightens on Margot’s hip.

Behind Quill, Rooster looms, hopefully ready to help me gut Quill and throw him out back.

Quill holds out his hand to Margot, all polite, civilized gentleman now. “Quill. Friend of your man’s club.”

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