My gaze sweeps across the room, trying to glimpse my friends. I see them in the distance, bouncing around a slot machine with drinks in their hands.
I turn my attention back to the table and meet his gaze again.
I want to blow out a breath, but I also want to look calm; he’s the sexiest man I’ve ever seen in my life.
His gaze lingers on me, his hand absentmindedly stroking his very short and very well-groomed beard as he takes in my appearance with his intense ocean blue eyes.
His beard, just like his hair, is a rich, dark brown shade.
He is dressed in a fitted white button-down shirt, his broad chest, well-defined shoulders, and muscular arms are on full display. He’s so attractive. Two buttons at the top of the shirt remain unfastened, giving me a glimpse of his tanned chest and his corded neck. A neck I could lick.
Fuck, no I can’t.
Fuck, I’m swearing.
“So what brings you to Vegas?” Hunter asks.
“I’ve worked here for a year, but after this trip, I’m going home. The girls came to visit and for a vacation,” I say.
“Where’s home?”
“London. You?”
“Ah, cool. Me, I’m from New York,” Hunter says.
I smile. “We’re going there next. Any tips on what we should visit and what we should avoid?” I ask.
“Explore by foot, not a tourist bus. That’s the best thing I can say to you. Some places are overrated, but it’s your vacation and I don’t wanna sway you.”
“Thanks,” I say, getting ready to leave, but the dealer has already dealt again.
I check my cards and then look up through my lashes. The bustling room fades into the background as I become aware of the man opposite, his stare piercing through me. He is so intense; I know I’m going to lose.
Last game.
I need to go.
But I keep catching his eye, and I don’t know if he’s staring at me... or I’m staring at him.
My heart is racing and I turn around. Happy to see Charlie walking to me with a grin on her face so wide; she’s done something bad or … very good.
“I’m going to win the bet,” she whispers into my ear.
My eyes narrow into a squint. “And how are you planning to beat Bree? You know that is virtually impossible?”
“I’m going for a swim later with the surfer guy. Remember the man who was here at the table earlier?”
I snort and cough simultaneously. “Sorry,” I say to the table and hold a finger up to Charlie.
I look at my cards again—eighteen. “Stand.”
“It’s my secret. Be at the pool at ten,” she says and winks as she walks away.
Chapter 4
Jack
I lower my head to look at my cards, but still I catch sight of her long tawny waves swaying as she leaves her chair and walks away from the blackjack table. Hoping she isn’t leaving because she’s uncomfortable with me staring, but secretly hoping she is turned on by me giving her so much attention?
