Page 90 of Seduce

“Me either. Are PDAs allowed?”

“PDA?”

“Public displays of affection.”

She laughed. Why did her mind think something different? “PG versions, yes.”

“Oh dear, then I guess I better leave the vibrating bullet at home.”

There was laughter in his voice, and she was happy. Things had been a little cool between them since Sunday. She was responsible for that.

“Until tomorrow,” she said softly.

“Until them, my love.”

Tessa froze. He’d said, “my love”. She shook her head. They were just words; Damon didn’t mean them in the way she was taking them. They hadn’t known each other long enough. Who was she kidding? She was falling for Damon. Hard and fast. Time didn’t mean anything. Hadn’t she learned that from her father and her ex?

Not now. She reminded herself. Once her brother was gone, maybe she could analyze these feelings, but not now.

“We have reservations at seven tomorrow night at the Pleasant Valley Steakhouse,” she told her brother.

“Perfect. My last meeting is at four; it will give me time to get back here and shower. I can’t wait to meet this man you’re dating.”

Tessa rolled her eyes. No matter what she said, he wasn’t listening to her.

* * * *

Tessa ran her hands down her dress as she and her brother walked into the restaurant the next night. Why was she so nervous about Allen and Damon meeting? Her stomach churned. She didn’t fully trust her brother.

“Good evening, welcome to the Pleasant Valley Steakhouse. Do you have a reservation?” the hostess asked.

“We’re meeting Damon Kline,” Tessa said.

“Oh yes, please follow me.”

Allen raised his eyebrows but indicated Tessa should precede him. Damon stood when he saw them approaching. This time, they had a table near the front of the restaurant.

“Tessa.” Damon took her hands in his and kissed her cheek.

“Damon.” Her heart lightened at seeing him. Talking to him on the phone and texting had been good, but there was nothing better than seeing him in person.

Allen clearing his throat made her turn. “Damon, this is my brother, Allen. Allen, Damon Kline, a friend.” She put an emphasis on friend. Damon gave her a pointed look, and Tessa knew they’d be discussing the ‘friend’ comment later. Right now, the last thing she needed was her brother poking into her love life.

Allen held his hand out. “Mr. Kline.”

“Damon, please.” They shook hands, and Damon held out a chair for her.

The waiter came right over, took their drink orders, and disappeared.

“This looks good,” Allen said as he looked over the menu.

“Their food is excellent.” She glanced at Damon and grinned.

The waiter returned with their drinks and asked if they were ready. They were, so they all ordered.

“So, Damon, what do you do?” Allen asked.

Tessa almost choked on her iced tea at the question.

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