Page 30 of Her Possessive Daddies

"We prefer to stay behind the scenes." I accept the brandy he passes over. "Lets us observe how things really run."

A small wrinkle appears between her brows. "So that first night we met..."

"Pure coincidence." I press the cool glass into her palm. "Though I'm grateful for it."

"To serendipity." Seth raises his glass with a wink.

The brandy catches the light as Abbie lifts hers hesitantly. Her shoulders relax as she takes a small sip, tongue darting out to catch a stray drop.

"And to new friends." I clink my glass against hers, watching her cheeks flush pink. "Now stop worrying about work and enjoy yourself."

"I suppose I can manage that." A smile tugs at her lips as she settles back against the leather. "Since you're technically my boss and all."

"See? She's catching on already." Seth tops off our glasses. "Smart girl."

The brandy starts working its magic. With each sip, each story, her posture softens, her laugh comes easier. She's pressed against my side now, warm and pliant, sending electricity through every point of contact.

"No way. You didn't actually do that." Her eyes sparkle as Seth regales her with stories from our college days.

"Hand to God. Corey here climbed right up that flagpole. Stark naked."

"In my defense, I was very drunk." I take another sip. "And someone dared me."

"That someone being me." Seth's grin is pure mischief. Just like back then.

Abbie's head tips back as she laughs, exposing the elegant line of her throat. "I can't picture you doing anything so... reckless."

"Oh, he wasn't always this buttoned-up." Seth leans forward, conspiratorial. "Used to be quite the wild one."

"Really?" She turns those bright eyes on me. The heat in them makes my pulse quicken.

"Seth's exaggerating." My fingers trace lazy patterns on her shoulder. "I was merely... adventurous."

"Still is." Seth winks at her. "When properly motivated."

The blush that spreads across her cheeks is delicious. She keeps biting at that lower lip, a gesture that sends heat straight to my core. The way she keeps glancing between Seth and me... interesting.

"Another drink?" Seth's already reaching for the decanter.

"Mmm, maybe just one more.” Her voice has gone soft and honeyed and she shifts closer, if that's even possible.

The familiar rhythm of friendly ribbing, the warmth of good liquor, the electric tension in the air - it's like being back in college. Except now, instead of chasing sorority girls, I'm sharing meaningful looks with my best friend over this enchanting creature between us.

"Remember that time in Miami?" Seth starts, and we're off again, trading stories and laughter while Abbie soaks it all in. Her hand finds my thigh under the table. Definitely not so shy anymore. Can’t wait to see where this evening goes.

After several more hours of drinks and nonstop laughter, the last call bell rings through the bar, and Abbie sways slightly as she stands. My hand automatically steadies her waist.

"I should get my car," she mumbles, fumbling in her purse.

"Not a chance." I pluck her keys from her fingers. "You're way too drunk to drive."

"I am not!" She slurs slightly as she drops her keys on the table.

Seth leans on the bar, eyebrows raised. "My place is three blocks away. We can walk, let her sober up."

"I'm fine," Abbie protests, but stumbles when she takes a step. I catch her, pulling her against my chest.

"Sure you are, sweetheart." The endearment slips out naturally. "Humor me."

---