Page 7 of Oh Boy!
When David returns, our group has grown larger, thanks to the addition of several other musicians who know either Rupert Smith or Monster Troy. For once, my brother’s excitement overrules his shyness, and he babbles about how many up-and-coming stars he met until he suddenly stops, out of breath. The corner of my mouth quirks up as I watch his flushed face morph from gleeful to flabbergasted. He freezes.
“Breathe, David,” I suggest, although I know that’s easier said than done. “See, myguruskills earned me a secret admirer. He was kind enough to arrange this.” I wink.
David’s jaw hits the floor. I’m not enough of an asshole to tease him, no matter how enticing the idea is. I let Rupert do the talking and delight in my brother losing his shit when the four other Barrels roll in, including Hardy West, the lead singer. An animated country music convo—that I tune out—ensues. That’s the one thing I have in common with Lori; I don’t blame her for staying home with their daughter.
Stuck inside my head, it takes me a second too long to register that my heart’s pounding. A second too long to acknowledge that goosebumps mar my skin. A second too long to catch my breath at the striking vision.Her.
Our eyes lock.You’ve got to be kidding me!My skin ignites.When will fate stop playing tricks on me?Her body stills.Does she feel the magnetic pull too?
She goes on tiptoe to deposit a kiss on his lips. Fuck! Then, her mesmerizing azure eyes cage mine. My heart hammers for no reason.
My British friend takes a deep breath. “And this lovely lady is mygirl.” His arm snakes around her possessively.
Lovely is the understatement of the century, Rupert! And why the need for clarification?
Trying to keep my cool—and failing—I cough, wondering how he can appear immune to her potent presence. Brazenly undressing her with my eyes, I worry my upper lip to rein in my growing semi. Hand in my jeans pocket, I readjust myself and snicker at the twist of fate. I meant every word I said to her on Wednesday. Back then, I sensed something that made me want to protect her. I doubt it has anything to do with the weird vibes coming off of them, like there’s something missing, apart from her name, that is. Either way, I’m a player, not a home-wrecker. And yet, right now, I want nothing more than to rip her floral burgundy dress off of her curvaceous body and lick every inch of her skin.
Rupert opens his mouth to speak again, but doesn’t get the opportunity.
“Hi, Nathan.”
