“The guys wanted to celebrate with you.” Jack extends his arm, gesturing for us to walk ahead of him.
I step behind Kaylee and walk to the far staircase that leads to the balcony. My gaze locks with Lucas and I trip. Jack grasps my elbow to steady me. My cheeks grow hot, and I look away.Jeez, Rainey. Clumsy much?
As we approach the table, both men stand. Tristan pulls me into a friendly hug. “Congratulations,” he says, before stepping back and turning his attention to Kaylee.
Lucas steps up next. “I had no doubt you’d get the account.” A sensual gleam lights his eyes, and his gruff voice turns me on. He doesn’t even have to try. Sex appeal is just a part of who he is.
Though he can be withdrawn at times, as a club owner, he is also able to turn on the charm. And when he does? Ladies, watch out!
“Congratulations.” He reaches out and I step into his arms.
Unlike Tristan, I feel this embrace all the way down to my toes. As I lean into him, my entire body tingles and when I draw a deep breath, I inhale his cologne. The masculine mix of smoke, citrus, and leather fills my nostrils, and I can’t help but stay where I am for a second too long.
As usual, when I’m near Lucas, a longing to be more than friends fills me, but I know better. He has too many red flags to be an option for me, no matter how strong the attraction between us is. And I have no doubt that attraction is mutual; stares that last too long, brushes of our shoulders or hands that elicit sparks on my skin. But he’s the ultimate playboy and I’m a relationship kind of girl. I’ve never seen him with a long-term girlfriend, and I’ve heard my brother talk. He doesn’t do serious.
Add to that, he’s Jack’s best friend and partner, and given Lucas’s reputation with women, I don’t think my sibling would approve. I’d hate to come between my brother and someone so important to him, especially in business. Even if I was in the market for a relationship right now, Lucas isn’t the right man for me.
I sigh and step out of his embrace. “Thanks,” I say with a smile. “I appreciate you celebrating with us.”
“Wouldn’t miss it.” He pulls out the chair next to him. “Have a seat,” he says, and I slide in.
We’re all sitting now and Jack gestures to a server who walks over. “What can I get you, Mr. Dare?”
“Sophie, can you bring us an ice bucket and open this for us?” He hands her the champagne bottle and settles in. “So, care to share your ideas for the Thunder’s 50th?” he asks.
I glance at Kaylee who nods, indicating she wouldn’t mind if we talked about it now. “I was going to set up an appointment with you to discuss things, but since you asked, part of our plan involves this club.” I grin at my brother, and not because I’m looking for a favor. This proposal will put a lot of money inMidnight’s coffers, but it never hurts to butter him up. “I was hoping we could set up a time to talk soon.”
Before Jack can reply, Sophie returns with the ice, pops the champagne, and pours the bubbly into glasses which another server already set down in front of each of us.
She puts the bottle into the bucket. “Enjoy,” she says, and walks away.
Jack raises his flute and everyone does the same, but it’s Lucas who speaks first. “To the biggest and best corporate event company in Miami and its two fabulous owners.” His gaze meets mine and I flush at the overstatement, but I’m secretly thrilled with his praise.
We all tap glasses before each taking a sip. The bubbles tickle my throat, and I moan at the taste. I’ve always been a champagne girl and this is top shelf.
I run my tongue over my lips. “Delicious.” As I speak, my gaze strays to the man next to me to find him staring, his green eyes darkening, his stare focused on my lips.
Without breaking eye contact, he picks up his drink and takes a swallow of amber liquid from an old-fashioned glass. He’s returned to his drink of choice after using the champagne to toast us, and that means something to me.
“Back to your question.” Jack draws my attention away from Lucas. “I can’t be your contact. I’ll be away scouting a second location for Midnight for a week or so.”
“That’s so exciting! Where are you looking?” Kaylee asks.
“A few places,” Tristan says. “Jacksonville, Nashville, and then Charleston, South Carolina.”
Jack smirks. “We’ll let you know once we narrow things down.”
I roll my eyes. “Fine. Be secretive. But we can’t wait until you get back to get started on the plans for the Thunder.”
“Lucas can run point,” my brother says. Since Tristan is more of a silent partner, I know he isn’t an option.
“Oh. Okay, sure.” My stomach flips at the idea of working with the man I’m so attracted to. It’s not that I don’t want to, I just know it’s going to be difficult with the sexual attraction sparking between us.
“Okay with you?” Jack asks his partner.
Lucas, who is leaning back in his seat, glass in one hand, nods. “Of course.”
His continuing stare leaves me lightheaded. “I’ll call you to set up a time that’s good for you,” I manage to tell him.
