Page 39 of Tempting Me

Dutton

Fine. Only because I need a drink.

Luca

See you all tonight!

I’m notmuch of a host, but I think that six pizzas for six guys might have been overkill. Screw it, they can take a box as a parting gift when the night is over.

My front door opens, and Hudson walks in with a big smile. He lifts his hand, which has a twelve-pack of beer in it.

“I know you had some, but I wanted to contribute.”

“Thanks. Pizza’s in the kitchen.”

He nods and heads that way just as I spot Linc, Declan, and Dutton hovering in my driveway.

“You boys coming in?” I ask, crossing my arms and leaning in the doorway.

Declan moves first.

“One beer and I’m leaving.”

Fair enough.

“Thanks for the invite,” Linc says and then walks in.

“Of course.”

“I’m still not sure why I’m here,” Dutton says, following right behind Linc.

Once everyone is inside, we gather in the kitchen.

Everyone is just looking at each other like it’s weird to do this, but they each have a beer, so that’s progress.

I open a box of pizza, grab a slice, and head for the living room.

“ESPN is on,” I say. I hear various versions ofthank fuck,then more boxes open and they all join me in the living room.

Dutton is on his second slice when he speaks up.

“What’s the point of tonight? Do you have an announcement or something?”

I shake my head.

“Nope. Just wanted an excuse to hang out.”

“He found out that Sadie and Grace have girls' nights,” Hudson chimes in between bites.

Dutton chuckles, followed by Linc.

“Is that why your dad is watching the kids and not Ruby?” Declan asks.

“Shit, Ruby is going to girls’ night now, too?”

“Why is girls’ night a big deal?” This coming from Dutton.

“Because as of this morning, I was informed that they talk about us.”

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