Page 54 of Russian Roulette
“You don’t need to do that,” I say. “Besides, you really should change out of your clothes, too. We can’t ruin Seven’s nice furniture with our wet clothes. Go change and come back later to check on me. I’ll be careful and if become dizzy, I’ll get out of the shower.”
Kit doesn’t appear convinced. “Okay,” he finally relents. “If you’re sure you’ll be alright.”
“Yes, now go so I can take these clothes off.” I head into the bathroom and strip off the wet clothes clinging to me. “I’m getting into the shower now,” I yell through the door. “I’ll be out in a minute.”
I don’t linger long in the shower because Kit will be back soon to check on me. He’s protective of me and I love it. A lot, if I’m honest with myself.
Having someone to care for me is a new, unique experience. In my life, no one ever gave a shit if I was fed or cold. My foster parents sure as hell didn’t. I was only a paycheck to them. Growing up, I always knew I would be completely on my own at eighteen.
And I was.
I can’t let myself grow attached to this feeling, no matter how good it is. They can jerk it away without warning at any time. I’ve learned that nasty truth, too.
After wrapping the thick white bathrobe around me, I step up to the foggy mirror and comb the tangles out of my wet hair. I don’t take the time to search for a blow dryer and walk back into the living room where the men are waiting for me.
They stop talking, and all eyes turn to me when I enter the room. The same thing happens every single time.
“Better now?” Kit asks, concerned.
“Much better,” I tell him with a grateful smile. “I’m warm and dry. Thanks for the bathrobe, Seven.”
“My pleasure,” he replies, his eyes slowly traveling down my body and lingering on my bare legs.
I settle on the sofa and curl my legs underneath me. Vulcan jumps up from his chair and sits beside me before the other men beat him to it.
“Well played,” he leans over to whisper against my hair. I ignore him and don’t answer. “Just for the record, I didn’t intend to throw you into the pool,” he continues loud enough where the others can hear him.
I raise my eyebrows at him. “Oh really? You expect me to believe that?”
He holds up his hands. “It’s the truth. My feet were wet, and I slipped on the edge. I was careless and…I’m sorry.”
“I bet you don’t apologize often, do you?” I say. “The words sound like they’re caught in your throat. Did they twist your arm until you agreed to apologize?”
He casually drapes his arm on the sofa behind me, his fingertips lighting brushing my shoulder. “A little,” he says. “I’m sure you heard Kit blasting me for dragging you into the pool. They insisted I owe you an apology. So, are we straight now? Are we good, or should I grovel more for your forgiveness?”
I gaze into his devilish dark eyes and realize I can’t stay mad at him for long. “How much more groveling are you willing to do?”
“That depends,” he replies. “What’s my reward?”
His eyes drop to the opening of my robe where the curve of my full breasts is showing. I pull the robe tighter around me, blocking his view while Seven watches us closely.
“Would you like a throw blanket?” Seven interrupts to ask. “Your legs must be cold. I’ll find one for you.”
Kit frowns at me from across the coffee table. “Maybe you would like something warm to drink? I’m still worried you might catch a cold.”
“I’d love some brandy if you’re bartending,” Vulcan replies with a laugh. “The offer was for everyone, right?”
“How about you, Jade?” Kit asks. “Would you care for a snifter of brandy? It will warm you up from the inside.”
I nod at him. “Sure! Thank you, I’d love one if it’s not too much trouble.”
Kit hurries to the kitchen for brandy snifters, while Seven searches the hall closet for a blanket. Vulcan takes advantage of our being alone and slides his hand down to lightly stroke the side of my neck.
“You already have Kit wrapped around your finger,” Vulcan says. “He’s a good guy. Don’t take advantage of him.”
I give him a puzzled look. “You’re worried for Kit? That’s a twist. Especially since he was lighting you up a few minutes ago. He’s always on your case.”
“He has our best interests at heart,” he says. “As we do his. I get a kick out of pushing his buttons to set him off, but I would kill in a heartbeat for him. Don’t fuck him over. I’m serious.”
