I lean forward and take his hand, planting it on one side of my hip as I take his other to pull him up. His palm scorches my skin through my dress as he digs in with his fingers. There’s nothing soft or relaxed about it, and it takes all my willpower not to pull him against my body and kiss the lips I’ve been watching all night. But that’s not what this is about. Tonight is about having some fun and enjoying a little company. If he thinks I’ll fall right into bed with him, he’ll never show me any respect. Especially after how this conversation started.
It’s a rule I’ve had since my eighteenth birthday. Respect comes first.
I’ve never wanted to break it more in my life.
Nate is still and has no movement in his hips as I dance in front of him, so I mirror my hand on his hips and rock him left and right as I move in front of him.
The salsa beat is infectious, and I step back and forth, even around Nate, who looks more uncomfortable with each passing second.
“Shall we take this to the beach?”
“I’d rather we didn’t take it anywhere and I get another drink. Or we take it back to my place so you’re naked.” My brows shoot up.
“No chance.” I pull on his hand and lead him down the wooden treads that guide us out onto the beach. The music is softer here, and there’s more room to move. I wrap my arms around his neck and pull him closer. His fingers grip tighter to my hips, and I press my body against his.
Salsa was my dance of choice growing up, but all I can think about with Nate is a bachata. “If you want to keep holding my hips like that, you better start moving those feet, señor.”
He gives me a dirty smile and moves us closer together, so close that his erection presses against me. My eyes widen as I look at him.
“You asked for that, sweetheart.”
He follows my lead for a few moments before the music switches from a Latin beat to some dreadful pop song. It doesn’t stop me, though. I’m having too much fun. Nate follows my lead with a few steps, but I’m constantly distracted by the attraction that’s thick between us. It’s intoxicating, like a blanket of lust is forcing us together, ushering us towards the inevitable conclusion of falling into bed together.
Not tonight, though. Especially after our first interaction.
The music fades, and I pull away from Nate, although his fingers wind in mine so we don’t lose complete contact.
“I’m going to call it a night.” The sadness that tinges my voice is honest.
“Can I walk you back?” There’s clear intent in his eyes that has nothing to do with calling it a night.
“Thank you, but I’m a big girl. I think I can handle the five-star streets of this luxury resort. I’m out on the water bungalow. Perhaps I’ll see you around?”
He smiles and looks me over again.
“Hmmm.”
This time I can’t hide my grin, and I beam back at him before turning away.
Every beat of my heart tells me to turn back to see if he’s watching me, but I don’t. That would spoil the anticipation and excitement of what might come in the next few days. Because one thing is for certain, I’ll be making sure I run into Nate again.
And soon.
