“As much as I hate that you’re leaving, I’m sure that work will help a lot and be a great distraction. You are going to be so busy; the Red Wings are lucky to have you.”
“Yeah, you’re right.” She takes a sharp inhale. “Work will help. I hope.”
The bartender hands Bren two drinks in colorful glasses with tropical umbrellas.
“You know I hate coconut. I’ll order something myself.”
Bren lets out another big exhale before taking a long sip. “Guess I’m getting drunk today.”
I order a strawberry daiquiri before we head back to the table, Bren carrying a drink in each hand.
“Damn, someone has the right idea,” Tyler exclaims as Bren sits down next to him. They must have gone to another bar to get drinks while we were gone.
“Cheers,” Bren grumbles, holding up a glass.
“To a great night,” Libby exclaims. Everyone holds up their drinks to toast each other.
“What’s the plan for this great night?” Blaine asks as the group of late arrivals strolls toward our table.
My eyes linger on Libby, and I swear I see a reflection of hunger in her eyes as she takes in Blaine with his button-down Hawaiian shirt fully open, showing off his well-defined abs and muscular torso. I’ve seen that look on her face many times since I’ve known her but never in regard to Blaine freaking Mitchell . . .
Chapter five
Laur
My heart practically leaps out of my chest watching Lucas saunter over to our table in his black swim trunks and floral button-down shirt. His shirt flows open with several buttons left undone, showing off his delectable chest but not revealing his entire torso like Blaine.
“Oh, hello, Captain, didn’t know I’d see this much of you at the bar,” I tease, before kissing him softly.
“Too much?” Lucas cocks an eyebrow.
“The perfect amount for the public eye.” My gaze runs the length of his enticing body again. “Anything more is for my eyes only,” I whisper in his ear.
“Luc, you want anything?” Ryder calls, “Mitch and I are headed to the bar.”
“I’ll go with you,” Lucas replies. Before he goes, he tries to kiss my disappointment away. I knew I’d have to share him a lot on this trip but I hate the time apart from him. It seems like he is getting on well with Ryder King at least. Surprisingly, Ryder seems to be keen on Mitchell, even after he was such an asshole when we arrived.
Bren pulls me into a conversation about application reviews, which admittedly I should be much more focused on, but my brain has been so overloaded, I needed this break. Tomorrow we’ll multitask by tanning by the pool and selecting the final candidates to interview, then set up the video interviews for when we are back on campus.
I catch myself nibbling at my nails as nerves chew their way through me with each word from Bren. Hoping to ease my tension, I take thelast sip of my drink. My responsibility when I get back to campus is going to dramatically increase.
Bren narrows her eyes at me, sensing my stress. “You’re going to do an amazing job leading the PR and marketing crew, Laur.” Bren places her hands on my shoulders, consoling me. “Just don’t forget to have fun! Especially while we’re at the beach.”
Almost as if on cue, a drink decorated with a maraschino cherry and orange slice appears in front of me. Lucas takes his seat next to me, smiling broadly. My eyes grow wide with delight as the fruity drink hits my tastebuds.
“What is this deliciousness?” I demand, eagerly taking another drink.
He leans in close to my ear, placing a hand on my bare thigh below the table. With a raspy voice, he whispers, “Sex on the beach. I figured you might enjoy it. I know I certainly would.”
Covering my mouth with my hand, I try to contain myself and keep from spitting out my drink at his unexpected answer. My cheeks heat desire mixed with embarrassment that our friends might overhear.
“Maybe if you’re lucky, you’ll get some of your own,” I respond softly with a sheepish grin.
“I’ve never done that before.” He runs his fingers along my thigh. The heat from my cheeks rushes to the space between my legs.
“Done what?” Libby interrupts from across the table. The color on my face deepens to scarlet.
“Skinny-dipped,” Lucas replies smoothly while he still casually caresses my thigh. His ability to remain cool and calm never ceases to impress me. I would have tripped over my words in an attempt to come up with a reply.
