Page 21 of Too Hot

“Probably once a month. What does it matter?”

“Rafe, do you know how you sound right now?” It was a tone she didn’t like.

He blinked, then shook his head. “Sorry. I’m acting out of character.”

“I don’t think so.” She lowered her voice. “I think the dominant in you is claiming something he believes is his.” Rafe’s eyes widened, and Brianna laughed. “I work with kids. I’m good at observation.”

He set his menu down and reached over and captured her hand. “Does it turn you off?”

She had to think for a moment. “Not really. I kind of like your protectiveness.”

He grinned.

“But not all the time. I know a lot of people in the community due to my job.”

“Noted. I’ll behave myself in public.”

“In public only?” Where were these questions coming from? His eyes sparked with desire.

“In the club or bedroom, you are mine.”

A shiver of anticipation slid up her spine. She was so ready for this. Mike returned with their drinks and bread, and took their orders.

“There’s extra cornbread in there for you, Brianna,” Mike said before leaving.

“You have him wrapped around your pinky,” Rafe said.

“He knows I love their cornbread.” She plucked a piece out of the basket and put it on the bread plate. Breaking off a fragment, she popped it into her mouth, closed her eyes, and groaned. It was still warm.

Rafe made a strange noise, and she opened her eyes.

“Are you okay?” she asked.

“Do you know how hard I am right now?”

Heat flared deep in her belly and spread. “No.” What else could she say?

He took her hand and placed it over his groin. Brianna inhaled sharply at the hardness beneath her palm.

“I’ve been this way since last Saturday night.”

“I feel like I should apologize, but another part me is glad you’re hurting like I am.”

Heat flared in his eyes. “Damn it, if we weren’t in public…” He glanced around, then took her lips in a hard and fast kiss.

She could barely breathe after the kiss. She wanted more. This wasn’t like her at all. She liked taking her time getting to know a man before she slept with him, but with Rafe, she wanted him in her bed.

It was too soon though. Logically she knew that. She pulled her hand away from his hardness. “Tell me how you became a firefighter.” That would take her mind off her need for him. Maybe.

Chapter Five

Rafe sat back at Brianna’s question. She was right to bring him down from the sensual haze that had surrounded them. They were in a public restaurant, after all. He blew out a breath. “I’ve always been fascinated by fire.”

She shivered. “Really?”

“Yes.” Mike arrived with their dinner and more cornbread and left. “Let’s eat.” After a few minutes, he glanced at her. “Why did you become a teacher?”

Brianna was quiet for minute. “I like teaching, and kids are fun in second grade. Their minds are usually very open and ready to learn.”

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