Page 61 of Seduce

“Are you asking me what Jordan is doing?”

“Not really. Part of me wants to know, but the other doesn’t. I just…I don’t know.” She shrugged. “I want to protect them.”

“My tender little Tessa.” Damon pulled her into his arms and lay back. “Lie here with me and enjoy nature.”

“We’re not going to act like randy teenagers and make out?”

“I didn’t say that.”

* * * *

An hour later, voices penetrated their little slice of heaven. “I guess we should go back,” Damon said.

“Yes.” Tessa stood. She helped Damon fold the blanket and pick up the pillows. When they walked out of the trees, her friends gaped at her. Sierra and Crystal were dressed, color high in their cheeks, and their clothing was mussed.

“Well, now that we’ve taken care of that business…” Max announced.

“I think it’s time to call for pizza,” Jordan suggested.

“You’re reading my mind.” Max picked up his phone and made the call.

“Sit down, sweetheart. I’ll go put these in the house.” Damon took the pillows from her.

“Okay.” Tessa sat down, but her gaze stayed on Damon as he walked inside. Damn, that man had a fine ass.

“Traitor,” Sierra whispered.

“What did we talk about, Sierra?” Max had finished his call and was glaring at Sierra.

“Sorry, Tessa. And I remember, Max. Trust me.”

“We should have called or texted,” Crystal said. “Tessa was the bright one.” She shifted on her chair and grimaced.

“I…” Tessa ducked her head. “I’m sorry both of you got into trouble.” She hated this feeling of guilt. She’d done the right thing, but someone suffered for it. Wasn’t that the story of her life.

“Oh, honey.” Sierra reached over and took her hand. “It was our own fault. It really was. I don’t blame you for texting Damon.”

“I don’t either,” Crystal said.

“You shouldn’t blame yourself.” Jordan stood up and walked over to her. “You take too much on your shoulders, Tessa.” He rested a hand on her shoulder.

Max walked over to where she sat, and without a word, he pulled her out of the chair into his arms. “We didn’t hurt them, merely reminded them who’s boss. Don’t fret.”

His softly spoken words helped her heart lighten.

“Hey, why are you hugging my woman?” Damon said, walking out of the house.

“She needed it.” Max released her and stepped back.

Tessa ’fessed up. “I was blaming myself for the situation.”

Damon stared at her with his arms crossed over his chest. Instead of being intimidated, a shaft of anticipation ran up Tessa’s spine. Damon acted tough, but he could be marshmallow inside.

“Pizza has been ordered. Who wants what to drink?” Max asked. Orders were placed, and by the time the pizza arrived, they were all talking and laughing.

CHAPTER TEN

On Wednesday afternoon, Tessa drove to Damon’s house. She had the afternoon off, and it was book club night, so Damon asked her to come out to his place. They’d have an early dinner then go together. She kept trying to convince him he didn’t have to cook for her, but he insisted. And who was she to deny him? Besides, she loved watching him move around in his kitchen and the way his muscles played along his back. Her man looked good in an apron.

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