Then, he turned his full attention on Carly. The intensity in his stare had her biting back a moan. That man had a way of stripping her bare and exposing her soul without uttering a single word. When he placed his hand on the small of her back, an undeniable connection passed between them.
“After you,” he said.
They inched their way through the busy eatery. Everyone wanted their moment with the hometown hero. Though he denied no one, he kept Carly in his sights and took every opportunity to place his hand on her back and usher her forward.
Twenty-five minutes later, they arrived at their destination. The bar. Hudson mixed drinks and chatted up the partygoers. Ashton gestured to a spot between two guests, so she squeezed in. And then, he joined her.
In that tight little space.
Being wedged against him in a public place triggered her fetish. She envisioned them making small talk while she dropped her hand beneath the bar and caressed him. On occasion, her fantasies included public places, and Ashton had a starring role in fulfilling her wildest ones.
Her breath hitched while her thoughts wandered to what could happen if she kissed him. Really kissed him. How would his tongue feel in my mouth?
“Hey, Babe.”
How would his hands feel caressing my skin?
“Carly.”
Would we slink away and…
“Carlyle.”
She flicked her gaze toward him, her cheeks warm with desire.
“Whoa, mama, where’d you go?”
She couldn’t stop the sly smile. “I’m right here.”
“Could’ve fooled me. The stool beside you is open if you want to sit.”
Of course, she didn’t. She liked being smooshed against his strong, hard body. A man slid onto the seat and congratulated Ashton, leaving Carly pressed against his granite chest.
Hudson bounded over. “Hey, guys! Is this a party or is this a party?”
Ashton chuffed out a laugh before clasping his brother’s outstretched hand. “This was the best. You knocked it out of the park, boss.”
“Wait? You’re leaving?”
“I’m getting grilled by the senate tomorrow morning. Can’t be late for my own execution.”
“Nah, you’ll be okay.” Hudson’s eyes darted to Carly. “He will be, won’t he?”
“Totally fine,” Carly assured him. Though, in truth, she had no idea.
Desiree bounded over. “I wish it was this packed every night. Your friends are great tippers, Ash.” Her gaze darted from one to the other. “What’s wrong?”
He painted on a smile. “All good.”
“Are you two taking off?”
“I’ve got an early meeting, so I’m headed home,” Maverick replied.
“Are you working ‘til closing?” Carly asked Desiree.
“Uh-huh.”
“Come in late tomorrow,” Carly replied. “I’ll handle the office by myself in the morning.”
