I listen to Miles talk as I push all other thoughts out of my head. The tequila settles in, warming my body and erasing all the nerves I had earlier.
Jake walks in a few minutes later as Miles and I sip on oursecond margarita. “Nobody told me we were having a party tonight.”
“You can’t have enchiladas without margaritas,” I smile when he meets my eye. He notices I’m wearing his shirt, and his eyes darken as they roam over me. The shirt was definitely the right move as my skin heats up from his gaze.
“No, I guess you can’t,” he says, his eyes never leaving mine.
“Boy, do I feel like a third wheel,” Miles chuckles, getting up from his stool. “You guys are seriously putting out thefuck mevibes.” He walks over to the cabinet and pulls another glass down.
“She’s beautiful, and she’s wearing my shirt. I can’t fight that combo.”
I giggle and take the Mexican dish to the table. “Dinners ready.”
Jake comes up behind me, and I feel his hands skim my waist as his breath fans my ear. “Seems you like wearing me on your skin. Twice in one day? One might start to think you’re just as obsessed with me as I am with you.”
“It’s starting to appear that way,” I murmur.
His lips find my neck as he kisses it softly. “It looks damn good on you. Makes me feel like you’re mine, and I love the way that sounds.” His hands lightly squeeze my waist before he releases me and pulls out the chair before me.
Sitting down, I try to compose myself as his words linger in the air.
“So, how was the rest of your day after I left? Did the last tattoos go well?” I ask him.
“You went to see Jake at Inked today?” Miles sits down and starts scooping out a big serving on his plate.
“I had a delivery this morning and stopped by after.” I hold my plate out as Miles puts two enchiladas on it for me.
“Were you allowed in the back office?” His eyebrow raises, and he grins at Jake from across the table.
“She’s on the list if that is what you are implying,” Jake says dryly, taking the spatula from Miles. “What’s that grin for?” He asks when Miles won’t stop smiling at him.
“Oh, nothing. I’m just surprised a girl was allowed back in the coveted sanctuary of Jake Montgomery.”
“Eve and Savi go back there all the time.”
“Family doesn’t count,” he shakes his head. “So tell me, beautiful Lyla. Did Jake stick to his strict rules with you, or did he finally break them?”
I glance down at my plate feeling my face get warm from the memory.
“That is none of your damn business,” Jake mutters next to me.
“Lyla’s red face tells me everything I need to know,” he laughs. “I always wondered who would be the one to finally make Jake cave in hisprofessional environment,” he says, using air quotes. “I’ve been telling him for years that there is nothing wrong with mixing a little business with pleasure. I do it all the time,” he shrugs and takes a bite.
“Groupies are hardly considered business clients. It’s a completely different situation.”
“Either way, I’m glad Lyla made the list, and I’m glad you found her. I only eat this good when Mom is home, and even then, Lyla has one-upped her. And don’t you dare tell her I said that,” he chuckles, pointing his fork at me.
“Your secret is safe with me,” I laugh. “And thank you. I’m glad you like it.”
“Surprisingly, I agree with Miles for once.” Jake fights back a smile when he looks at his brother. “This is delicious, and I’m more than glad I found you,” he says, meeting my eyes.
“Me too,” I say softly, getting lost in those greys that always seem to pull me in.
“Awe, I feel like I’m watching The Notebook play out right before my eyes. It’s almost got me wanting the same thing.”
“Seriously?” Jake looks at his brother, surprised.
“Not even close,” he laughs. “I’m having way too much fun with the variety I’ve got going on. Speaking of fun,” he glances at the clock, “I’ve got to get going.”
