Did he know that she’d fallen in love with him?

She stared back at him, in his dark slacks, black shirt, and suit jacket, a dark, sexy, protector with eyes only for her. But a man who was willing to let her go. She promised herself she’d make it easy for him, and so she’d never reveal her feelings. Not in words, anyway.

She’d hold them tight to her heart, where she’d always hold him.

She blinked and he was gone, which meant he was probably making his way downstairs. She shivered in anticipation, suddenly eager to see him.

Touch him.

Kiss him.

He’d been working long hours that were opposite of hers and she’d spent many hours in his big bed alone. She didn’t know how many more she’d spend in her own apartment with nothing but her memories to sustain her. After the break-in, they’d cleaned things up but she hadn’t gone home. It was going to feel strange to be there with nothing but her memories of Jason to sustain her.

Without warning, a pair of strong arms slid around her waist and she recognized the scent of his cologne. She sighed in pleasure and leaned back against him. “You look so fucking hot I couldn’t take my eyes off you,” he said in her ear.

She turned and found herself in his arms. “You’re looking mighty fine yourself, Mr. Dare.”

He grinned in reply, a naughty twinkle in his eye. “I want to take you home and devour you.” His finger dipped into her cleavage, outlining the low vee of her dress.

Her nipples tightened and she rubbed her thighs together, desire for this man alive inside her.

“Would you two get a room?” Tanner muttered from beside them.

Jason chuckled. “Can’t wait for it to be your turn.”

“As if.”

Before either man could utter another word, the sound of tapping on a microphone reverberated around the room, and Landon walked on stage. Dressed similarly to Jason in all black, he held the microphone in one hand.

“Welcome to Club TEN29.” He raised his hands and a roar of applause came from the crowed. “We’re thrilled to welcome you all to our grand reopening, featuring Lola Corbin Grissom, of Tangled Royal fame, and Charlotte Jasper!”

The crowd burst into applause as Landon stepped out of the spotlight and the curtains went up, revealing the two superstar singers.

Jason slid his arms around her waist and rested his head on her shoulder. And that’s how they stood together, listening to the most amazing live music ever. These two women were powerhouse talents, and Faith was thrilled for Jason that he’d gotten them to perform. Even Charlotte, who did like to stare at Jason despite the fact that he was firmly with Faith.

At least for now.

She leaned back into him and let herself enjoy the rest of the evening, celebrating in Jason and his partners’ success.

* * *

After a triumphant night, the patrons took their time leaving, but finally the crowds dissipated and the club felt empty. No music blared in the speakers. Lola and Charlotte’s crew were disassembling their equipment. The cleanup team worked, sanitizing tables, then putting the chairs up high on the tables so the floors could be cleaned.