“Your level of experience in the lifestyle. Plus other things.” Colby guided her down the steps to his motorcycle. He frowned. That top wasn’t going to keep her warm on his bike.
Opening the small storage compartment on his bike, he pulled out a leather jacket. It would be a little big on her, but until he could get her something that fit, it would work. He shook out the jacket and held it out to her.
Lara slipped her arms into the jacket, and Colby turned her around and zipped up the front. Then he grabbed the extra helmet and put it on her head. She shifted from one foot to the other.
“I can’t believe I get to ride with you on your bike,” she said, excitement tingeing her voice.
Her enthusiasm pleased him. “The jacket’s a little big, but it’ll keep you warm. You’ll have to come by the shop so I can get you one that fits you better.”
“Do you think I’ll need one?”
Colby grinned at her. “Most definitely.” He slipped on his helmet. “The helmets are equipped with Bluetooth so we can talk.”
“That’s so cool.”
He helped her onto the bike and then he mounted. Colby started the engine. “Put your arms around my waist. I’m not going to go too fast.”
“But I want to go fast.”
“After a few rides, once you get used to it, I’ll take you out for a real run.” Her arms slid around his waist, and his dick pulsed. It was going to be a long night if he couldn’t get his body under control.
Colby released the brake, and they were off. Lara’s arms tightened, and he enjoyed the feel of her body pressed against his. As promised, he kept it slow and easy, and all too soon, they pulled up to the barbecue place.
Colby parked the bike and helped Lara off. When he took her helmet off, she was grinning from ear to ear as she ran her fingers through her hair.
“That was fun.”
“I’m glad you liked it.” Colby stored her helmet with his before taking her hand and leading her up the walkway. The restaurant was busy for a Tuesday evening. He walked up to the hostess with a smile.
“Colby, it’s so good to see you again,” the blonde woman said before leaning over and kissing his cheek. “I have your table ready, just follow me.”
Colby gestured for Lara to precede him, and he noted the questioning look in her eyes. They had one of the best tables in the house. It was his favorite table. Next to the windows where, during summer, you could see the ducks out on the pond.
“Mike will be with you shortly. Enjoy your dinner.” The hostess set the menus on the table and bounced away.
Colby held Lara’s chair out for her. She hesitated for a second then sat down. He took the seat next to her rather than across. For what he wanted to discuss, it would work better if they were close to each other.
“The hostess seemed to know you,” she said, her voice cool.
“I’ve known Tina since she was in diapers. She and her mom lived down the street. We grew up together.” Her jealousy warmed his heart, and he didn’t blame Lara for questioning him. He’d probably do the same.
“Oh.” She looked down at the table.
Colby took her hand and lifted it to his lips. “Tina isn’t a threat. She’s just an old friend. I want you to understand that. I have a lot of friends from the neighborhood.”
“I bet a lot of women.”
“Yes.” His lips caressed her knuckles. “But there’s only one woman with me tonight. And that’s you.”
“I have no reason to act jealous.”
“You have every right. I just asked you to be in a relationship with me. That’s the reason this dinner is so important. To get to know each other better.” He rubbed his thumb over the back of her hand.
Lara’s lips fluttered in a smile.
“Are we okay?” he asked.
“We are.” She tugged her hand from his hold and began looking over the menu. “So many choices.”