Hands grip my hips, and before I can react, I’m spun around. A gasp slips past my lips as I throw my hands up for balance, my palms landing flat against a solid chest.
My eyes widen as I look up at the familiar brown eyes, and gorgeous lips I almost kissed at the welcome week party.
“Ryan?” I ask, my eyes narrowing as the room spins, hoping this isn’t just a mirage. “What are you doing?”
His jaw clenches, his grip tightening. “I don’t fucking know,” he admits, voice rough. “I saw you out here dancing with—and I—” His jaw locks again, his nostrils flaring.
I suddenly become aware of my hands on his chest, the heat of his skin burning through his thin t-shirt. I shift them slightly, feeling every hard muscle beneath my fingers.
Ryan exhales sharply, a low groan slipping from his lips—so quiet I almost wonder if I imagined it.
His tongue flicks out, wetting his lips. “You going home with him?” he asks.
“Who?”
His eyes flick over my shoulder. “The guy you were just dancing with.” His hands flex on my hips, one last squeeze before they drop away.
I lower my hands and take a step back, shaking my head. “No, I’m not.”
His brows furrow. “What about your rebound?” His eyes darken, jaw going taut. “Don’t tell me he did something creepy.” His voice drops, dangerously low. “Tell me he fucking didn’t before I assume the worst and cut his hand and dick off.”
A laugh bursts out of me before I can stop it. “As much as I appreciate you mutilating a guy for me, he did nothing wrong,” I assure him.
Ryan exhales, shoulders dropping in relief. “Thank fuck. I almost committed murder.”
I hum, swaying slightly as I blink up at him, the alcohol making everything feel a bit slower. “I know. It was kinda hot.”
His brows lift, a slow, teasing smirk pulling at his mouth. “Good to know a criminal record turns you on.”
I shrug, my lips quirking. “What can I say. I like my men like I like my coffee. Strong, hot, and guaranteed to keep me up all night.”
That earns me a small chuckle. But his smile settles as his eyes lock on mine. “So, what happened?” he asks. “Why didn’t you go home with him?”
I tilt my head, narrowing my eyes as I press a finger to his chest, pushing him an inch. “Are you jealous?” I tease, wagging my brows.
He scoffs, grabbing my wrist and lowers my hand, but doesn’t let go, my skin breaking out in shivers when he rubs his thumb over my skin. “Not answering that.”
I let out a laugh, but my balance wobbles, forcing me to grip his forearm for stability.
“Jesus. Yeah, I’m glad you’re not going home with anyone. You’re wasted.”
My eyes find his and I let out a harsh sigh. “I just… don’t think I’m the kind of girl who sleeps with strangers,” I admit.
His lips twitch, his eyes on mine, but he doesn’t say anything.
“Hey, Cap!”
We both turn as Austin and Logan stumble toward us, grins wide, drinks obviously long gone.
“We’re heading home. You coming?” Austin slurs, barely staying on his feet.
“No,” Ryan says, his gaze flicking back to me, softening just a little. “I’m staying.”
Austin winks knowingly. “Ahhh. I hear ya.”
Ryan groans, rubbing a hand down his face. “Get him the fuck to bed.”
Logan scrunches his nose. “Y’know, I love the guy, but he’s not my type.”
