“Wow,” he says.

I finally get the courage to look up and see him smiling. Which makes me return the smile. “You said it. What was that?”

“That, was a marvelous kiss between two people highly attracted to one another.”

“But we hardly know each other. And just for the record, I’ve never done anything like this before.”

“You mean kiss a man at a pool party?” He chuckles.

“Well, that too. No, I mean, a heated kiss with a stranger.”

“It was pretty heated, wasn’t it? And just for the record, we’re not strangers. I properly introduced myself.” His smile is infectious. “Shall we take it up a degree, or three?”

I can’t help but giggle like a schoolgirl. “Um, I’d love to, but I think I’d better not.”

“Don’t trust yourself?” he challenges.

“You’re pretty sure of yourself, aren’t you?” My hands have yet to leave his body. If I wasn’t concentrating so hard on controlling them, they’d have a mind of their own and start exploring all the wonderful contours of his muscles that I’m sure are hiding beneath his shirt.And jeez, why can’t I stop my thoughts from rambling on? Probably because this man is so darned distracting.

“I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t mind another dip into that delectable mouth of yours.”

“Wow. I’ve never been told I have a delectable mouth. Keep talking,” I nearly purr.

He laughs heartily before leaning in for another round.

Only we’re interrupted by my sister and her male companion. Denise has a sheer robe over herself, and I think,why bother? She’s still practically naked in that bikini. But she looks fabulous. As she approaches, I watch Shaun’s reaction to her. Am I jealous already? Impossible.But I’m childishly giddy when he doesn’t seem to be fazed by her beauty. He continues to keep his arms around me even though mine have fallen into my lap.

“Hiya, sis… Shaun! Enjoying the party?” she says, winking at me.

“We are,” Shaun answers.

“We were taking a break from the pool when I spotted you guys up here. I wanted to introduce Jim, my boss. Jim, this is my sister, Abby. And I’m sure you know Shaun.”

“I do,” Jim responds in a deep, smooth voice. He extends his hand to shake Shaun’s, which means Shaun disengaging from me. “Good to see you again.” He turns to me. “And nice to finally meet you, Abby. Denise speaks highly of you.”

“Really?I mean, nice to meet you too. Denise just told me of you this afternoon.”

I notice the corner of his mouth rise, hinting at a devilish smile.

“I thought I’d see if you’d like to get in the pool,” Denise starts, “but I can see you’re otherwise occupied.”

“Uh, yeah,” I stumble, sitting up a little straighter, and slightly, reluctantly, inching away from Shaun. “Thought about it, but I think I’ll pass. Thank you anyway.”

Denise eyes the empty beer bottles, smiles and turns to Shaun, who has given me a bit of space. “Well, you two have fun … and take care of my sis. I want to be sure to enjoy my few days with her.”

“Will do,” Shaun confirms.

“Wait, Denise, we can…”

“Abby, relax. I’ll catch up with you later.” She leans in for a quick hug before turning to leave with Jim who exchanges a goodbye with us.

“Well, okay then,” I mumble, almost pouty. I came here to spend time with my sister.But was I really disappointed to be seated next to this hot guy?

Guess we have some time to see about that.

“Nervous?” Shaun asks.

“Honestly, a little.”