I love that I got it right. “I thought you might like it.”
“I love it!”
I pull up to the valet and shift the car into park. I cup her chin in my palm and lean in until her breath breaks across my lips. “Would you like me to kiss you while we still have privacy, kitten?”
“Yes, please,” she whimpers softly.
I brush my lips over hers. “Say it again.”
She exhales shakily. “Please, Phillip.”
“So fucking sweet.” I slant my mouth over hers, stroking inside, tasting her, exploring her mouth as her nails bite into my wrist and she mewls softly.
I break the kiss before her hands start to roam. “Wait here.”
She blinks at me, dazed as I exit the car and raise a hand, signaling for the valet to wait. I round the hood and he opens the door, stepping aside so I can offer Tally my hand as she rises.
I guide her up the steps and into the building. We head directly for the coat check.
I cover her hands. “Let me.”
She tips her head in question.
“I want to savor every minute with you.”I bend until my lips are at her ear. “And this is like unwrapping the perfect gift.”
CHAPTER 23
TALLY
Iam on cloud nine, but also my entire body is pinging with pent-up sexual energy. Everything Flip does and says sends me into a hormonal tailspin. Even just the simple act of holding my hand makes me all melty inside as we watch sea creatures darting through the coral reef.
A sea otter corkscrews in front of us. “That one’s flirting with you,” Flip observes as it does figure eights against the glass.
“Maybe they’re flirting with you.” I snuggle into his side as the otter does a full-body wave.
He gazes down at me, eyes heating. “Would you dance for me?”
“Like that?” I nod to the otter.
“However you want, as long as it’s just for me.”
“I would love to,” I whisper.
Before he can reply, a woman calls his name.
Anxiety makes my chest tight as Flip drops my hand and turns toward the voice.Please don’t be another former hookup. A woman who looks closer to his age than mine approaches. And she’s beautiful.
“It’s so great to see you!” She hugs him and I immediately want to throw down.
Thankfully she releases him quickly. “What are you doing here of all places? Is there some kind of charity event I don’t know about?”
“I’m on a date.” Flip steps to the side and slips his arm around my waist, which is when I realize his previous maneuver was meant to be protective. “Tally, this is Laura. I coach her younger brother, Auggie.”
“It’s so nice to meet you.” I no longer want to catfight her. Mostly. I smile and place a possessive hand on his chest.
“Oh! Hi.” Her gaze darts between me and Flip. “I’m so sorry to interrupt. Your dress is beautiful.”
“Isn’t she stunning?” Flip kisses my temple, which I appreciate.
