Page 3 of Fair Play
He’s quiet for a beat and then throws back his head and laughs. “I don’t think anyone’s ever compared me to the Roman Empire before, but I like it. What’s your name?”
“Billie.” I extend my hand. “Nice to meet you.”
“That’s a pretty name.” He shakes my hand just as the song ends and, as predicted, a slower song comes on.
“Ready?” I ask.
“Sure.” He allows me to lead him onto the dance floor and I’m surprised that such a big guy is light on his feet.
I’m five feet nine and wearing four-inch heels, so he has to be six three or four.
And I’m a sucker for a tall guy.
Especially one with muscular arms and a great butt. His hands are warm but gentle as they circle my waist and I move closer. I can’t remember the last time I asked a guy to dance, but there’s something about him that’s pulling me in.
Intriguing me.
“I don’t think I’ve ever asked a guy to dance before,” I muse as we move.
“No?”
“I really don’t do clubs. I’m too busy with school and stuff. I’m just trying to fit in with my roommates.”
“How many are there?”
I wince. “Four.”
“There’s five of you living together?”
I nod. “I know, it’s kind of a bummer, but the good news is that I have my own room. It’s technically not supposed to be a bedroom—it’s more of a den but they added a curtain and I’m saving up to buy a row of bookshelves to block off most of the opening so I’ll have a modicum of privacy.”
“Are you paying one-fifth of the rent?”
“I’m paying a bit less since I don’t even have a closet, but it’s really cheap so it works for me.”
“How much longer do you have until you graduate?”
“June.” I pause, wrinkling my nose. “But I’m in a special program where my classes my senior year count toward a master’s degree too. I might be a bit of an overachiever.”
“I can tell.” He doesn’t seem annoyed by it, though, a small smile playing on his lips.
“Is that a veiled insult?” I tease, enjoying the feel of his strong body against mine.
“Not at all. Smart women are extremely attractive when you get to my age.” He pauses. “Although I’m pretty sure I would find you attractive at any age.”
Is there any universe where I go home with this guy?
Maybe.
I’m not usually the one-night stand type but I might make an exception for my Roman emperor.
“Rome, let’s bail!” A tall man with dark hair comes over and claps him on the shoulder. “We’re going to eat.”
Invite me.
I glance up but he’s looking at his friend. “Yeah, let me just finish this dance,” he tells him.
The guy nods and moves away and Roman looks down at me. “Thank you for the dance. I enjoyed it.”
