He knew the women were expecting him to say something. He whistled approvingly. His teammates looked ravishing. Olivia was draped in something silver that hugged every curve and sparkled when she moved. Zoe wore a vivid scarlet sheath. Then there was Sam, who looked mouthwateringly delicious in a high-necked white blouse and a long black skirt, slit to midthigh. She was so covered up, except for when she moved a certain way, and her skirt parted that it made her look even sexier. Everyone at the dinner would remember what she looked like in her bikini. All the more tantalizing, which proved what Slick always told him, less is sometimes more. He couldn’t help but notice the diamond earrings in Sam’s ears, her only jewelry.

No doubt about it, his teammates were going to blow off a lot of socks this night. They all laughed as they returned the compliment. Kayla said, “You look good enough to eat, honey.” Slick blushed furiously.

More laughter ensued as everyone donned their coats and scarves before slipping out of their spike-heeled shoes and into their combat boots. They all carried shopping bags full of presents. When they reached the center of the compound, they could hear the Christmas carols.

Sam felt tears gather in her eyes when she heard Bing Crosby singing, “I’ll Be Home for Christmas.” Was this home? For the next six months it was.

Team Five was already at the party. Lukash opened the door, dressed quite nattily, Sam thought. They lined up their boots next to the others by the front door and slipped on their dress shoes.

Sam looked around. The room Lukash led them to was unbelievably festive, a long room that ran the entire width of the house. A fragrant balsam tree twinkled merrily in the corner. Pots and pots of bright red poinsettias, hundreds, Sam thought, were placed all over the room, adding to the Christmas decor. As one, Team Three gasped as they handed over their shopping bags to Vandameer to place under the tree. Seconds later, flutes of champagne were offered.

Where is our host? Sam wondered as she looked around. Then she saw him, and her legs turned to jelly. The last time a man turned her legs to jelly was…was…never. Even Douglas, with whom she’d thought she was in love, had never turned her legs to jelly. She felt jumpy at the realization.