Page 55 of Witch Please

“People only pay attention to Doris once they meet her. I become invisible.”

She shot him a heated look. “That’s highly unlikely.”

The big dog was clearly taking her measure, so Danica gave Doris plenty of space as she came in. He’d said Doris was cautious about strangers, and Danica could sense the wariness rolling off her through the passive stream of her magic. Something bad had happened to this poor pup, though Danica didn’t have the ability to determine what. Priya or Kerry would be able toask, such a cool power.

“Would you like something to eat? Or drink?” he asked, gesturing toward the kitchen.

I can’t believe I’m saying this.

“We both know why you invited me over, and I’d rather have sex on an empty stomach.” With a sultry smile, Danica pulled her dress off, tossing it aside in what she hoped was a bold, confident move.

He can’t resist. I’m even wearing my good underwear.

Titus wore an expression that she absolutely couldn’t interpret, something like a Vitamix blend of lust and panic. He rushed her, but before he got there, Maya popped out of the kitchen wearing a friendly smile that froze as her gaze slid up and down. Danica knew exactly how she looked, hip cocked, wearing a matching bra and panty set—pink satin and lace..

“Uh. Nice to see…so much of you. I like your lingerie. And I agree with you about the empty stomach, it’s…” She paused, communicating silently with her brother. “Never mind. I’ll be in the kitchen while you get dressed.”

Oh goddess, why? Take me now.

***

Titus had never been so embarrassed…or so turned on.

He hadn’t imagined that Danica would strip in his front room before he had a chance to tell her that Maya was home. Maybe he ought to have sent a message, but who could’ve guessed that Danica would come out so strong? A hot flush covered her entire upper body as she hastily got dressed, and he wanted nothing more than to carry her upstairs. But he’d never been in this position before.

It seemed discourteous to do that when Maya was home. Not that she was an impressionable kid; they were both adults. Possibly he was overthinking it, but they should have a conversation about how to handle things respectfully as housemates first. He’d be okay with her bringing a partner home too, just with a discussion beforehand setting ground rules, like no sex or nudity in public areas.

God, this is awkward.

He became aware that the silence had gone on too long and stepped toward Danica, pulling her into a comforting hug. “I’m so sorry. This is my fault. I should’ve told you, but I haven’t been home that long, and I had no idea her plans had changed.”

Her voice came out muffled with her face tucked against his chest. “No, it’s on me for being…impulsive.”

“Your impulses are sexy as hell, and I’m lucky to benefit from them.”

“I should probably go. There’s no way I can hang around here after flashing your sister. The problem is, I don’t have the car. I thought I’d be here a while and that you could take me home later if you were so inclined.”

“I don’t really want you to leave, but I need to talk to Maya. Why don’t you wait in my room? I’ll be there soon.”

“You think we can just…” Eyes wide, she seemed hesitant even to say it.

“Why not? We’ll need to be quiet, but that might be kind of hot. You’re allowed to say no, of course. Say the word and I’ll drive you home instead.”

He waited in silence, trying not to pressure her. Obviously he wanted to have sex—it was like she’d lit a fire under his libido and now he couldn’t get enough—but not if she felt too upset. Nothing mattered more to him than her feelings.

Finally, she said, “You know what? I’d laugh if this happened to someone else. Might as well own it. Go ahead, talk to your sister. Which room is yours?”

“Up the stairs, down the hall, second on the left. It’s the room with an en suite bath.”

“Got it. I’ll be waiting.”

Maya hit him as soon as he walked through the doorway to the kitchen. “You’ve been holding out on me. Things are progressing much faster than I imagined, Captain Awkward.”

“Please, I will never be mentally ready to discuss this with you. But wedoneed to have this conversation. Do you mind if Danica stays over?”

“Not at all. You won’t go big brother on anyone I bring home?”

“I’ll do my best to be polite and welcoming.” Quickly he outlined his suggestions for not making it weird.