Page 62 of Holiday on the Rocks
I spoke to the hostile room. “I clearly remember you all hate me.”
Her eyes rolled. “I don’t exactly hate you, but if you were on fire I’d make smores.”
I gave her an impressive nod. “Noted.”
Lexi glared. “Levi should just stay here.”
Evan slapped my back. “Come on. It’s been years since all that happened. I invited him to be here, and he’s traveled halfway across the globe so he’s going.”
Lexi’s eyes dramatically rolled.
Rachel clapped. “And my second point was that I say where we’re going tonight, me. No chiming in or thoughts from anyone. It’s a night to take Kristina’s mind off of dickhead Dale. We might be going to the dark side, and I don't really give a tiny “F” what you guys think, got me?”
Lexi pointed to the men. “Either agree or stay here and introvert tonight.”
Rachel gave Kristina a hug. “Come on girl, I forgot I have the perfect necklace for this shirt.” She looked at the group. “Give us five minutes.”
With that everyone scurried away, but I hung back. I walked to the Christmas tree, and I could feel Allie’s eyes.
“Looks like you survived introductions.”
I plopped down on the sofa. “You had doubt?
She leaned against the chair. “Yes, many.”
“Never underestimate me, Langley. I know more than I say. I think more than I speak and notice more than anyone realizes. I’m like the new and improved Levi.”
Her giggle filled the space between us. “I think I’ll always be the same weirdo who runs into things, spills food, and laughs at random stuff. What can I do?”
“Do nothing. Never change.” I rose to my feet, strode to her, grabbed her hand, and pulled her behind the Christmas tree.
“Mr. Levi, I believe closure is over.” Her dirty grin was a gut punch.
“They could see us.”
“One farewell kiss?”
I pulled her close as her perfume floated around me. She went up on her toes, and when I leaned in her breath blended with mine as her fingers went into my hair.
Everything about Allie was warm and soft, and a need from deep inside shot through while I closed the distance between us. Her hair brushed against my face tugging at the desire to have her everywhere. My house, my bed, and every other place I go. I was lost. All my defenses fell away, and for an instant I don’t care who might walk in.
Her lips melted into mine for the softest kiss that I hoped to explore more later.
She pulled back and rested her forehead against mine. “You better get away from me before one of the girls come back.”
I nodded and we walked back around by the couch.
“I’m getting my phone.” She walked toward the stairs. “I can feel your eyes on my butt.”
“I hoped so.”
TWENTY-SEVEN
ALLIE
HERE WE GO
I made it into my room when Rachel shot in from the hall and shut the door.
