Page 27 of Embers in the Outfield

“I think we explore this. We try it out and have some fun. We keep Ash and Sam out of it. That way, if things get messy, we walk away and avoid a huge ordeal involving our closest friends. I’m not asking you for your hand in marriage, Skip.” He winks at me, keeping things light like he usually does. “I just think we could have a little fun together.”

I chew on my lip as I think about what he’s saying. Can I keep this from Sam? Would she be pissed if she found out I was dating River? Would Ashton be pissed?

I know this is going to eat at me, knowing I’m keeping this big secret from my best friend. But it’s also exciting to have something that’s just mine and River’s, even if it’s casual.

“Okay, so I guess we’re doing this,” I say, continuing the movement of my fingers through the back of his hair.

A cocky smile spreads across his face, his hazel eyes pulling me in like a vortex. “You ready for me to rock your world, Skipper?” He pulls my face to his and kisses me, this time starting slowly, and I feel it build in intensity.

I move myself so I’m straddling him, and start gyrating my hips. I need a release, and I’m hoping I get the opportunity to do so multiple times tonight.

River’s hands move down my back, and he grabs onto my ass, squeezing me tight. I can’t wait to feel his bare hands on my flesh, no clothes between us.

I begin to pull at the hem of his shirt, but he breaks apart from me.

“Nope, Skipper, we’re not doing that tonight. I’ve got to keep you coming back for more.” He smiles and winks at me.

“What the fuck, Riv? You’re going to leave me like this?” I move my hips again for added effect.

He drops his head back and laughs. “I know I’m going to regret this tomorrow. But I think we should do this another night. I think if we’re going to start something together, we do so when we haven’t both had a long day.”

“You’ve gotten me off with my vibrator and seen me naked. I have needs, River!” My voice is rising as I speak, irritation lacing my tone.

“Oh, I know you do, sweetheart, but I need to make sure I get you nice and antsy for me before I give you everything,” he says as he peels me off of him and deposits me on the couch cushion next to him. “Gotta keep you coming back for me and all.”

“That’s the opposite of casual!” I complain. “River, you’re going back to being a royal pain in my ass again.” I cross my arms over my chest and make sure my scowl is prominent in my features.

He runs his hands through his hair, looking up toward the ceiling as if contemplating whether this was his wisest decision. Standing up, he straightens his shirt.

“Listen, I work a twenty-four-hour shift starting tomorrow, so I’ll see you in two days. You around then?” I can see he’s really having to hold back here, and that’s bringing me some satisfaction, at least.

I look down at my nails, feigning indifference. “Yeah, I think I could fit you in.”

He laughs, then comes back toward the couch, caging me in as his hands rest on the back, his body hovering over me. “Oh, sweetheart, I’ll fit, but I know you’ll have to get used to me once I’m there.”

I swear my panties are even more drenched than they previously were at this thought.

Damn him and his taunting.

“Well, that magical dick of yours has a lot of competition with the silicone one that’s in my drawer,” I throw back at him.

A soft smile consumes his face. “That’s okay. I’m not jealous.” Then he does something I don’t expect. He stands back up, and places my hand up to cup his dick. He’s hard, and that rod is definitely one I’ll feel the effects of for days after I finally get a taste of it.

My mouth goes dry, and I swear I’m going to have to burn this underwear because they’re toast at this point. He chuckles, leans down again, and gives me a quick kiss.

“I’ll see you in a few days.” He winks and heads off toward the front door. I’m still sitting on my couch when I hear the elevator chime its arrival.

Fucking River, always getting the upper hand.

CHAPTER 11

River

I’m gassed,and it’s only twelve hours into my shift. The moment I stepped foot in the station, we were called out, and it’s simply been call after call since. Luckily, each one was pretty manageable, but my body is tired, and my muscles are sore.

I move through the firehouse, ready to help with dinner, and I run into a good buddy of mine, Jamison, who just had a baby a few weeks back.

“Dude, welcome back!” I shake his hand and pull him into a hug. I won’t tell him, but he looks exhausted.

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