Page 38 of Take Me Back
“He has no reason to be worried.” I turn the conversation back on him, hoping to kill the borderline inappropriate vibe I’m getting. “Are you here on your honeymoon?”
He laughs. “No. No. Nothing like that.”
Thankfully, before I have to think of something else to say, a giggle announces the arrival of Vander’s companion. My gaze cuts to the entrance, and the rush of relief I feel swiftly changes when I see the brunette clinging like a limpet to Dane’s arm.
“Thank you so much. I’m so clumsy. I guess these heels aren’t meant to be worn here.”
You could say that again.She’s wearing five-inch stilettos you’re more likely to see at the Victoria’s Secret fashion show—or a stripper pole—and not on an island with no solid, flat surfaces. In fact, given her perfect figure, towering height, and hair to die for, I wouldn’t be surprised if she has walked a runway. Or worked a pole.
“Might want to trade those in for flip-flops,” Dane comments.
“Anya, did you have some kind of mishap?” Vander releases his hold on Dane’s chair.
Anya.What is it with exotic-soundingAnames lately?
“She almost broke an ankle coming inside,” Dane says, his gaze zeroing in on Vander.
And of course he rescued her.Because that’s what Dane does.
Where is this jealousy coming from?I shove it down and lock it away.
“Thank you for your assistance, Dane. I appreciate it.”
Her familiar use of his name and overly friendly smile would have caused another flare of jealousy, but Dane is frowning at Vander.Is he feeling the same thing?
Vander adjusts his watch on his wrist, moving away from the table and holding out his hand to Dane.
“Thank you for your assistance, sir. I’m sure you understand what it’s like to try to reason with a woman who packs an entire suitcase full of shoes, even for a weekend away.”
Anya rolls her eyes playfully. “Says the man with the foot fetish wholovesthat I bring all the shoes. Don’t let him fool you. Vander might grouse, but I wouldn’t have so many shoes had he not bought them for me.”
What the hell?Foot fetish?Did he look at my feet?
Wow, Kat. Calm down.
Dane shakes his hand.
“Vander Iman. Thank you so much for looking after Anya. I’ve been keeping your beautiful wife company.”
“Dane Cross.” His voice is gruffer than normal.
Maybe he is jealous.
The men take each other’s measure. Dane’s dark hair is a contrast to Vander’s dirty blond. Dane’s tattoos make him appear more dangerous than the Brit with the boat shoes and fancy watch.
They release each other’s hands, and Vander steps back. “Enjoy your breakfast with your wife.”
Dane nods. “Likewise.”
This is definitely making the list as one of the most awkward moments on this trip.
Eduardo breaks the tension, taking drink orders. Vander and Anya settle at their own table as Dane takes the seat across from me.
“Everything okay?” he asks, his gaze darting over my shoulder, no doubt to the other couple.
“Fine.”
Anya’s obnoxious laugh fills the room again, grating on my nerves, even though I try to ignore it.
