Page 62 of Trusting Tanner
“That’s a cool lamp,” Tanner said.
“It is.” She nodded. “I really like this couch.” She sat. It was a lot stiffer than it looked. The back was firm, making it hard to get comfortable, unless sitting ramrod straight was her thing—and it wasn’t.
Tanner sat beside her. He extended his arms along the back of the couch and leaned back. Then he bounced on the cushions. “Nope.” He stood. “Not comfortable enough.”
She shook her head and stood. “I really like those colors.”
“There’s another blue set over there.” He pointed to a display in the far corner then took her hand and tugged her in that direction.
The couch had oversize cushions and puffy armrests. It was a darker shade of blue than the previous one, but the style was cool. It didn’t have any brown, though. She supposed she could live without the dual colors, or she could add some brown throw pillows.
Tanner plopped down on the couch and sunk into the cushions. He grinned. “Now this is comfortable.” He patted the spot beside him. “Come try it out.”
After running her hand along the back, admiring the smooth fabric, she sat beside him. The cushion deflated beneath her, and she tipped toward him. “Whoa.” Her eyes widened, and she tried to right herself, but with his weight holding the cushion down, she couldn’t do anything but lean against him.
He put his arm around her and kissed her forehead. “I vote for this one.”
“Seriously?”
“I might have ulterior motives for wanting it.” Nudging her, he said, “Okay, get up.”
He stood and then stretched out on the couch, extending his legs. “Oh yeah.” He scooted back and motioned for her to join him.
“You want me to lie down with you?”
He propped his head on his hand and grinned. “Buying new furniture is a big investment. You want to make sure it meets all your needs.”
She crossed her arms and stared down at him with amusement. “And what sort of needs do you think I’m going to have for this couch?”
His grin widened. “Come find out.”
Her jaw dropped. He couldn’t be serious. She glanced around. The store was busy. Every salesperson was occupied with customers, and more people walked through the door by the minute.
“C’mere.” Tanner reached for her hand, and she gave in.
Lying down so her back was to his front, he draped his arm across her body and nuzzled against her neck. God, she loved it when he did that. She sighed softly and wiggled closer.
“Close your eyes,” he whispered, and she did. “Now imagine we’re in your apartment. All the lights are off. It’s dark outside. And we’re lying on this couch, just like we are right now, watching scary movies. I’m holding you close, kissing your neck.” The feel of his lips on her neck sent a shudder through her. “Caressing your body.” He dragged his hand up her arm and back down, leaving a trail of goose bumps in his wake. His voice was rich and velvety, which only made his words more erotic.
“Ahem.” A man cleared his throat. “Can I help you two with something?”
Juliana’s eyes snapped open, and she jumped up. “I want this couch,” she blurted. Flames of embarrassment licked up her neck and exploded on her face. Behind her, Tanner chuckled, unfazed by what just happened.
“Okay.” The salesman nodded. “Just the couch?” His gaze shifted from her to Tanner, a knowing glint in his eye.
“No. The couch, coffee table, and the two end tables.”
Tanner stood next to her, his arm protectively—and possessively—around her waist.
She turned back to the salesman. “I’m also going to need a kitchen table, chairs, and a bedroom set.”
“Did you have something in mind?” he asked.
“We haven’t had a chance to look yet,” Tanner said.
The guy nodded. “Well, take some time and browse. My name is Brandon.” He gathered the sales tags from the furniture. “When you’re ready, come on up to the front desk and ask for me. Did you want the matching recliner?”
Juliana hesitated. There was enough room in her apartment for the chair and couch. “No, I don’t think so.” She shook her head.
