“Not exactly,” I admit. “I’m originally from South Carolina and moved to Nashville when I was nineteen.”
Her eyes narrow, and she remains quiet for a few bars of the music. Eventually, she breaks the silence by asking, “Just how long have you been in Nashville?”
“I’m not there much anymore, with the tour and all.”
Adorably, she rolls her eyes. “You know what I mean.”
“Is this your way of asking how old I am?” I tease as I swipe a strand of loose hair from her face. “If roles were reversed… wouldn’t that be considered rude?”
“I’m not ashamed of my age,” she says indignantly. Then her eyes narrow, and I feel the heat of her gaze cross over my features. “Though, I’d be lying if I said it hasn’t crossed my mind.”
I quickly spin her away from me in time with the song, then pull her close. When her hand rests against my chest, she stares expectantly.
Damn. I could get lost in those hazel eyes. Raven’s fucking breathtaking.
I’ve spent months with her sister, and I should be used to looking at eyes like hers. They sure as shit shouldn’t be so captivating. This could go sideways in a heartbeat… especially since I’ve signed a contract with her sister’s fiancé. But somehow… well, fuck… my gut tells me Raven might be worth the risk.
When her head tilts to the side and she refuses to break eye contact, I find myself giving in. “I lived in Nashville for nearly eight years.”
Running her finger down my chest, she smiles wickedly. “For an older man, you’ve sure got some moves.”
“Oh, I’ve got moves,sweetheart.” There goes my Southern twang. “Are you sure you’ll be able to keep up?” Without giving her a chance to respond, I spin her out. Laughter falls easily from her beautiful lips as I quickly guide her through a series of twists and turns, making our arms like a pretzel.
Raven’s so responsive on the dance floor. By the time the band sings the infamous song, “Closing Time” after announcing last call at the bar, I’m shocked this evening has come to an end.
Is it really that late? I swear we just got out here.
After spinning her away once more, I pull her close as the song comes to an end. Raven snakes her arms around me and says, “I’m not quite ready to call it a night… are you?”
“Not even close.” I grin, liking where she’s going with this. “What do you have in mind?”
Chewing on her bottom lip, for the first time tonight she hesitates. “Uh… we could go back to the house… but we’ll have to stay quiet as everyone’s likely asleep.”
“Or…” I wait until her eyes meet mine to ensure we’re on the same page. “We could go to my place.”
A grin spreads across her face as she heavily exhales. “I like that idea better. I love my sisters, but I miss living on my own, ya know?”
Without a conscious thought, my hand cups her face, and I pull her in. For a long moment, the world stops, and we just stare at one another. It’s been years since my need to kiss someone has been this strong. Raven has me wanting things I know I shouldn’t. But for the life of me, I just don’t care. I know we’re in public, and I shouldn’t even think about starting something I know I can’t finish, but I can’t help myself.
My need for her is too strong.
Leaning down, I press my lips to hers.
Instantly, her arms wrap around my neck, and I feel her lift up on her toes to offset our height difference. The moment her mouth parts, I swoop my tongue in to taste her.
God, she’s magnificent. The chemistry that’s flowed between us all night ignites the flame that’s been simmering. There’s no way I want this to stop.
Her nails scratch along the hair at the base of my neck, and my dick takes notice.
Fuck, this isn’t the time nor the place for him to be so alert.
Reluctantly, I break our kiss, then lean my forehead against hers. Panting, I ask the only question on my mind, “You ready to get out of here?”
“I thought you’d never ask.” She grins widely, taking my hand in hers.
After our first kiss,I swear Raven’s more addictive than any drug. Each kiss, caress, and touch has me wanting more. I’m so lost in her, I’m not even sure how we make it to my hotel. My lips are on hers every chance I get. At every intersection, in the elevator, and again in the hall, we take advantage of each stolen moment.
By the time I kick the door to my room shut, our energy is combustible. We’re nothing but lips, teeth, and fumbling hands as we tear at each other’s clothes. The moment she’s in nothing but her lacy bra and underwear, I groan in satisfaction. “God, you’re beautiful, Raven.”
