“I love it. It’s light and crisp and goes nicely with this salmon,” Terri said. “But we want to hear about what happened between those tours. You spent the night in one room, and as fine as Gabriel is, I know more went on than just sleeping.”

Serenity had never been one to kiss and tell, but she scanned the eager faces of her friends and knew they probably wouldn’t leave until she gave a few details. “We stayed at a bed-and-breakfast. The cottage had a private deck that overlooked a creek and was surrounded by beautiful gardens. It was so peaceful, I wish we could’ve stayed a few more days.” She paused when she saw the knowing smiles on their faces. “It had a fireplace and a Jacuzzi…for two and—”

“Girl, please tell me you used the thing for two and not alone,” Natasha interrupted.

“Yes, we used it.” And she would never forget the erotic encounter. They’d used every inch of that Jacuzzi, and just the thought of all the ways Gabriel had cherished her body sent heat spiraling through her.

Dana chuckled. “By the look on your face, I’d say you more than used it. I’m jealous.”

Serenity laughed and toyed with her glass. “Yeah, you could say that.” She took a sip of her wine.

“Seems like you two are getting serious.”

Serenity’s smile faded. “We’re not serious, Natasha.” Sure, she liked him—a lot—but they’d set the guidelines of the relationship, and rules were rules. “And he’ll still be leaving.”

“Which will be when?” Natasha asked.

She shrugged. “He said end of the summer, so probably another month or so.”

“In that case, I say you enjoy every sensual moment until he leaves.” Dana toasted Serenity with her glass.

“Amen!” Terri and Natasha chorused.

“I don’t know about y’all,” Serenity said, trying to hide her smile. “But I think once is more than enough.”

Dana scooted her chair away from Serenity. “In case lightning strikes from that lie you just told.” Laughter broke out around the table. “With a man like that, every night wouldn’t be enough.”

Still chuckling, Serenity said, “Okay, you have a point, but sleeping with him again is probably not a good idea.”

Terri stood, stacked their empty plates. and took them to the sink. “I don’t know, Serenity. I’ve seen the way Gabriel looks at you. The man is totally into you, and I don’t see anything wrong with the two of you exploring a long-distance relationship.”