Page 4 of Only for Tonight
The bartender gets to work on something infinitely more appealing. As he crafts the cocktail, someone else steps up to the bar on my other side.
Tall, with a crisp button-up rolled to his elbows. Dark hair with silver threading through it—distinguished rather than old. The kind of man who probably uses words like “indeed” and owns a leather-bound book collection.
“Excuse me.” That voice. God, that voice. Deep and smooth with a British accent that does illegal things to my nervous system. “Is this seat taken?”
I shake my head. Suddenly very aware I’m flanked by two impossibly attractive men.
“Go for it.”
He settles onto the stool with easy grace. His cologne reaches me—expensive, understated.
I resist the urge to lean closer.
The bartender slides the Between the Sheets across with a wink. It’s beautiful—amber and smooth-looking, with an orange peel garnish.
I take a sip. Infinitely better than the Pink Misery. Warmth spreads from the inside out.
“Much better.”
Leo looks entirely too pleased with himself.
The newcomer beside me turns. “Rough night?”
You could say that.
He offers his hand with old-fashioned politeness. “James.”
“Rebecca.” I shake it. His grip is firm and warm, lingering just long enough to make my pulse jump.
His eyes travel over me. Not rushed, not crude, but thoroughly appreciative. Like he’s cataloging every curve for later.
“A pleasure.” The word sounds indecent in that voice.
A slow smile transforms his sharp features. Recognition in his eyes. Like he knows exactly what I’m thinking.
“Have we met?” I study his face. Sharp cheekbones. Strong jaw. Eyes the color of stormy seas.
“I don’t believe we have, though you may have heard my voice before.” He pauses. Mischief in his expression now. “If you listen to audiobooks, you’ve likely heard me narrating rather explicit scenes. Perhaps even moaning dirty words in your ear whilst you fantasized about your favourite book boyfriend.”
My jaw drops.Wait.
“You’re a narrator?”
“Romance audiobooks, specifically. Primarily dark romance and reverse harem as of late.” He sips his scotch. Watches my reaction with obvious amusement.
“You’re James Cade.” Holy shit. “I just listened toBackstage Passon the plane!”
Oh my god. Oh my GOD. I’ve listened to this man narrate sex scenes with my headphones in.
His smile turns sinful. “Ah. Did you enjoy the studio scene in chapter fourteen, then?”
Leo groans. “Mate, please don’t flirt with your voice. It’s not fair to the rest of us.”
“Says the man who looks like he was carved from stone by someone with very specific fantasies.” James replies smoothly. “Where’s Luca got to? I thought you two were inseparable.”
“He’s around. Probably documenting his arms for social media.”
I’m staring between them. Processing. They clearly know each other. Friends, maybe? The easy way they banter suggests more than just acquaintances. A tattooed carpenter who orders drinks with filthy names. A British audiobook narrator whose voice has gotten me through more lonely nights than I care to admit.
