I savored the scent of hazelnut as I cradled thewarm mug in my hands. “Worth their time. Their attention.” I shrugged. “Maybe more.”
“They’re both nearly my age,” Dad reminded me, as if that wasn’t a huge part of the appeal. “I’m only four years older than them.”
“Yeah, and Calixto’s two years younger than me, so you don’t get to play that card.” I grinned as Dad’s mouth snapped shut. “Besides, Early didn’t seem to mind the age gap when we were flirting this morning.”
Mom perked up even more. “Details, please.”
“Nothing major happened. We talked about the movie, he gave me some great advice, and there was some mutual flirting.” I smiled, remembering the fascinating contrast between Early’s playful teasing and his warm, caring nature. “He’s sweet.”
“And Duke?” Mister asked.
“Pure sex on legs.” I laughed at Dad’s pained expression. “What? He is! And he actually listened when I talked to him about stuff. Plus, the burgers he serves are incredible.”
“You had the taco burger, didn’t you?” Mom guessed. “It’s one of my favorites.”
“It was a religious experience.” I closed my eyes, savoring the memory. “I’d marry that burger if I could.”
“Just the burger?” Mom teased. “Or the owner, too?”
“Mom! Could you please stop trying to marry me off? I’m only twenty-two.”
“Exactly. You’re too young to be getting involved with a married couple,” Dad insisted. “Duke’s the type to take things seriously, and Early’s too nice for a casual fling.”
“Your twenty-year-old boyfriend probably has a different opinion about being involved with an older man,” Mom added with a wicked grin. “Who is absolutely adorable and perfect for you, Sir. But you can’t lecture our son about age differences or youthful indiscretions.”
Dad’s shoulders slumped. “That’s different.”
“Is it?” Mom’s eyes sparkled with mischief. “Because I remember that time with the tennis instructor and his wife.”
“Melody!” Dad’s face flushed red.
“Oh, and that cute bartender and his boyfriend in Miami.” She tapped her chin thoughtfully. “What was his name again?”
“Marcus,” Mister supplied helpfully, earning a betrayed look from Dad.
My father grumbled with irritation. “You’re supposed to be on my side.”
“I’m on the side of entertainment,” Mister corrected with a grin, holding his coffee mug up in a toast.
“I don’t want you getting hurt,” Dad said, turning back to me. “Duke and Early are good guys.”
I pushed more of his buttons. “But I’m counting on Duke hurting me in all the right ways. Have you seen those muscles? My ass is ready for that pounding after going so long being the one in control.”
Dad dropped his head with a defeated sigh. “Sometimes I think we’re too open as a family.”
“Would you rather I kept secrets?” I asked innocently.
“Yes! Some things should stay private!”
“But then how would I get such excellent advice from Mom about the best positions for?—”
“Stop!” Dad held up his hands in surrender. “Please be careful, okay? And I’m not saying that because I don’t want to lose my favorite places to eat and drink in this town. I’m worried you’ll get in over your head.”
Mom reached over to pat his arm. “Honey, are you surprised our attention-loving son wants to be the filling in that sandwich? Duke and Early are his type because they’re older, charming, and gorgeous.”
“She’s got me there.” I grinned. “Plus, Early’s already given me permission to pursue his husband. If I can get past his walls, Early sounds like he’s all in for some sexy fun.”
Mom perked up. “Ooh, tell me everything! They’re such sweethearts. Did you know Early once spent three hours teaching me how to make the perfect lattice crust for pie?”
