Page 19 of Dragged Home for Christmas
Okay, part of his anatomy reacted. Mike was only human after all. He did his best to regain some self-control.
“I’m sure it is, and don’t think I’m not flattered, but—”
“Hey, I can guarantee a happy ending,” Anthony added with a grin that would not quit. “Don’t they say an orgasm is the best thing to help you fall asleep?”
“Theymaysay that, but not tonight.” Mike gave him a hard stare. “Goodnight, Anthony.” He closed the door and hurried over to the bed.
Ashley chuckled. “My, aren’t we popular?”
He waggled a finger at her. “This isn’t funny.”
“I beg to disagree. From where I’m sitting, it’s hilarious.” She grinned. “Hey, maybe I should sell tickets.” She made a show of studying him. “Then again, maybe not. Who’d pay to watchyouplay hide the salami?”
“Hide the—where do you get this stuff?”
Ashley rolled her eyes. “You think you’re theonlygay man I know? And you havenoidea what I read or watch when I’m in the sanctuary of my bedroom.”
He let out another snort. “Just because you have a Kindle doesn’t mean I’m not aware of your taste in books. The covers are a bit of a giveaway, y’know. Lots of bare chests, smoking hot glances to the camera, guys—”
“I think you nailed it with guys.” She bit her lip. “I’m sorry, I was mean. You’re not exactly Elephant Man when it comes to the looks department. In fact, I’d say you’re hot.” There was another knock at the door, and her eyes gleamed. “Looks like I’m not the only one who thinks so. Wanna place bets on which one of them is out there?” When he didn’t move, she gave him a push. “Well, go tell whoever it is to take a hike, or we’ll never get any sleep. Because at this rate, we’re gonna need a revolving door.”
Mike let out a low growl. “Not tonight, we’re not.” He returned to the door.
Jim was on the walkway, wearing the tight jeans he’d worn earlier. He’d stuffed his hands in his pockets, which only served to pull the denim tight across his—
Fuck, he’s huge.
That was one piece of information Mike wasn’t about to share with Ashley, not unless he wanted to be labeled a size queen.
Jim smiled. “Hey. In case you’re not ready to sleep just yet, my door is right through there. I’m sure I can think of a few ways to wear you out.” He gave the tiniest thrust of his hips. “And to sweeten the deal, maybe this is the point where I mention I’m vers.”
Oh sweet Jesus.
“Thanks for the information, and I’m sure you’re… highly skilled, but I don’t think I need any sleep remedies tonight. I’ll see you in the morning. Goodnight.” He shut the door with a little more force than he’d intended. Mike turned to find Ashley with her face buried in her pillow, her shoulders shaking, her laughter muffled.
“We arenotgoing to discuss this ever again, do you hear me?”
Ashley was still shaking with laughter. “Oh, I think we are. I’ve never had this much ammunition. But what I want to know is, how are you going to look any of them in the eye tomorrow? Breakfast is gonna be awkward as hell.” Her eyes widened. “Do they evenknowthey’ve all tried their hand? Well, not all of them, but as good as.” She snorted. “Okay, thattrying their handpart put an image in my head, and I can’t unsee it.” When another knock came, Ashley groaned. “Iseveryonearound here horny tonight?”
Mike was done. He stormed over to the door andflung it open, not surprised to find Sam standing there. He didn’t wait to hear what Sam had to say for himself.
“And what areyouoffering? What’syoursecret skill?”
Sam blinked. “I make good hot chocolate. I saw your light was still on, and I figured after the day you’d had, it might help you sleep.” He held out two cups. “Don’t forget to bring them down in the morning. Goodnight.” Then he turned and crossed the walkway, opened the door, and closed it behind him.
Mike retreated into the warmth of the room, carrying the cups. “A gift from Sam.”
Ashley sat up. “That was nice of him.” Her lips twitched. “Did it come with any offers attached?”
“Nope. Not a one.” Mike placed them on the nightstand.
“Gasp. At leastoneof them has some taste. Maybe Sam’s into older men.” She grinned. “Maybe he was into Nick.” Ashley chuckled as Mike went back to the door and locked it. “What are you afraid of? Being ravished in the night?”
“More like, waking to find one of them next to me.”
She sipped her chocolate. “Maybe I should have brought the rolling pin to bed with me.” She leaned back against the headboard. “Can we be serious for a moment?”
“Sure, if it stops you using me as a target for your sharp-as-fuck tongue.”
