I cocked a brow. “Was Pagan being a dick to him too?”
“Boot brought it on himself, babe. Believe me, you don’t owe him your loyalty. Pagan was right to pull him up on his shit. Bootneck’s been gettin’ himself way too involved in other people’s business lately, and he needed to be told.”
My eyes widened. “What did he do?”
Castle’s guarded look returned, and he muttered, “Can’t possibly say. Club business.”
I rolled my eyes.
“Hold on tight, sweetheart,” Castle muttered. “Pagan’s just noticed us. He’s on his way over.”
“Surprised he could tear himself away from Erin for long enough to bother,” I said under my breath, just as Pagan’s voice cut in.
“Havin’ fun?”
I stayed facing ahead, not wanting to give him the satisfaction of even acknowledging him.
“Just catchin’ up,” Castle informed him.
I felt fingers curl around my waist, and Pagan tugged me backward until my back was pressed against his front. “Hey, baby,” he murmured in my ear from behind. “I like your dress. Wanna go somewhere so I can peel it off ya?”
My heart fluttered.
“Why? Is Erin busy? I snapped, immediately regretting it when I heard his deep chuckle.
“Jealous?” he asked.
I threw him a glance. “No, honey. In fact, I’m sure there’s an office somewhere you can take her.” I smiled sweetly. “Want me to ask Mac Meadows for you?”
“You’re the only girl I’ll be takin’ to an office,” he muttered in my ear.
“Had your fill of Saskia already?” I sassed. “Didn’t take long.”
“Nah,” he cut out. “I think she’s a bit tied up at the moment.”
Castle let out a quiet snort.
I sniffed haughtily. “I bet.”
“Yep,” he grinned. “You’re jealous as fuck.”
“Why would I be jealous?” I tossed back, ignoring the painful twist of my stomach. I forced an air of nonchalance into my tone. “We were never really together, remember? And we’re certainly not now, so you can do whatever and whoever you want.” His hand splayed across my hip, so possessive it made my skin burn.
His breath, sweet with the scent of whiskey, hit my ear. “Only wanna do you. Especially in that dress. Make sure you keep it, so when we’re back together properly, you can wear it for me before I tip that sexy skirt up over your ass and drill that tight little pussy of yours in it.”
Castle scratched his jaw and chuckled.
“Dream on,” I bit out.
“Every night, baby girl, and always of you.” He leaned closer and murmured, “I went to the VA, and you were right; they gave me some meds to help me sleep. Don’t take ’em every night, just when I really need ’em, but they’ve helped.” He squeezed me a little tighter, and my thighs quivered at the contact.
“Come on,” he ordered, tugging me toward the open doors that led to the patio.
“Pagan,” I protested softly. “There’s no point in this.”
“Just wanna talk,” he promised. “Give me this, then I’ll leave you alone.”
“Why don’t I believe you?” I muttered to myself, allowing him to pull me outside.
