Page 43 of Salute, To Bravery
She smiles for the first time. “It’s nice to know some things don’t change.”
I frown, looking around my office. “And some things do.” I sigh and nod to myself.
It’s been a long time coming. I stayed for my wife and kids. They’re all grown now, and my open marriage took a turn I should have seen coming but refused to acknowledge. When Sarah said it was over, I finally felt the pull in my soul I’d been waiting for.
It’s time to live for me.
I look over Jessenia differently. We have nothing stopping us now. She wants to feel normal again. Alive.
“Well, I’ll get out of your hair. I’m sure you have plenty of packing to do and retirement parties to attend.”
She stands, and a desperate feeling to grab her washes over me. I can’t just let her walk out of this office without knowing when I’ll see her again.
“Birthday party, actually.”
I stand and beat her to the door. She glances up at me.
“Happy Birthday,” she whispers, but her eyes are saying something entirely different.
“You should come out tonight.” Shit, this could be the worst idea I’ve ever had.
“Where?”
It’s better than a no, so I’ll take it.
“Let me write down the address. It’s a private club in Center City. I’ll have them put your name on the guest list.” I grab a pen and notepad and scribble the information down.
I rip it off and practically shove it into her hand.
“Is it formal?” She reads the address and folds the paper before looking back up at me.
You’ll be naked before the night is over, so it doesn’t matter.
“No, it’s causal and relaxed.”
She nods and holds up the paper. “What time?”
Holy shit, she agreed. My cock twitches, and I grin down at her. “Eight sharp.” I open the door for her before she changes her mind.
“I’ll see you tonight.” I close the door, dismissing her, and turn my back to rearrange myself in my uniform pants.
“Christ.” I sit behind my desk and call my brother.
“War,” his voice is clipped, and I know he’s angry at something.
“What’s wrong?” I hear some grunts and a loud bang.
He must be at the gym working out his frustrations, and I envy him at the moment. Hopefully, tonight will give me an outlet to purge my sexual frustrations. The last few years of my marriage were sexless, and my few times at the club never sated my hunger.
“Are you listening to me?” Darren growls, and I curse.
“Fuck, no. I’m sorry. I’m distracted as hell.”
He grunts again. “I said my date fell through, and I’m pissed. Guess we’re spending our birthdays alone tonight.”
I smile. My twin and I have always loved sharing women.
“I’m not too sure about that, Dare. How would you like to switch tonight? Someone has come back into my life and might be willing. We’ll have to test the waters.”
