Thirsty

Dane

As Dane watched, Lila's expression got a little firmer and she straightened, saying something to the guy, who laughed—even though she wasn't smiling—and leaned into her ear again.

Then when she tried to turn away from him, the guy slid his hand from her back to her butt and Dane swore.

He didn't remember deciding to move, but he was through the crowd and behind her in moments. Over the sound of the people and the music, he could hear the man saying, "…most beautiful women here."

"That's very kind," she replied. "But—"

The guy smiled a smile that Dane wanted to carve off his face. "No buts. I insist. Let me get your drink and then take you to the dancefloor." He reached toward her again and Dane didn't even think, just shifted a step so the man's hand ran into his side instead of hers.

She looked up at him, surprised, then smiled. "Dane," she said. Did he imagine the relief in her voice?