Read Online Carol's Image by Maryann Jordan - Free Book Online Page B

her back, he could feel the slight tenseness. If his hand had not been on her he would have never noticed her tension. How does she do that? How does she completely mask what she is thinking? No glaring, no frowning. Nothing.
    The hostess stuck her hand out toward Carol, saying with a smile, “Hi. I’m Anita. I’m an old friend of Tom’s.”
    Carol robotically reached for Anita’s handshake, feeling like there was more than just friendship between the two. It doesn’t matter. It doesn’t matter.
    “He’s great isn’t he?” Anita continued to gush. “All us girls used to want to tie him to us, but you know Tom – always keeping one foot out of the bed and heading toward the door!”
    At that, Carol jerked her hand back, suddenly feeling as though she had been dropped into a situation in which she had no control once again.
    Embarrassed, Tom slid his hand from Carol’s back around to her tense shoulders and gently pulled her into his side. He could feel the tension radiating from her body while the smile plastered on her face did not reach her eyes. Dammit.
    “Yes, well as you can see, I have a beautiful date and we have a reservation. You may show us to our table.” Nervous, he hoped he was handling the situation correctly. The last thing he wanted was a former fuck-buddy to ruin his evening with Carol.
    “Sure thing, honey. But listen, the next time you’re over this way, look me up. I’m always up for a night with you sugar, and I know you are always up! ” Turning to Carol with a smile, she continued, “Normally I wouldn’t be so forward, but we all know Tom. He’s great with the benefits, but sticking around just isn’t his thing, is it? Oh well, enjoy him while you have him.”
    By this time Carol body was humming with anxiety. A player? A man with fuck-buddies all over the place? Her palms were sweating, and a sick feeling crept into her stomach. What am I doing here? This is so not me. He’s not even interested in me.
    Tom growled, “Anita, show us to our table. Now.”
    Eyes narrowing in confusion, the hostess turned and sashayed over to a corner table next to a window with a view of the mountains in the background.
    Assisting Carol with her seat, Tom took the seat next to her instead of across from her. She still had no appearance of anxiety over meeting Anita, but he noticed that her hands shook ever so slightly as she picked up her menu. Whatever is in her past, she has learned to hide her emotions. He desired to take her in his arms and not only protect her from anything now, but also to wipe away whatever stole her joy in her past.
    Looking over their menus, he noticed her subtle scent drifting his way. Ever so slight, with just a hint of floral. Noticing everything about her, he tried not to stare. Her hair that beckoned his fingers to sift through the strands. Her china doll face with delicate features. Slim hands, belying their strength. She took the napkin and gently unfolded it as she placed it in her lap before perusing the menu. Most women are already draping themselves over me, and she seems completely unaffected. Confused as to how to read her, he began looking over the menu as well.
    As Carol’s eyes expertly scanned the menu, she mentally calculated the lowest calorie meal without seeming obvious. She stilled her nerves, trying not to look at him, having already memorized his every feature. Navy slacks, cut to fit his muscular thighs. Light blue dress shirt, with the cuffs rolled at the wrists. Tall. Blond. Built. Strong jaw, ocean blue eyes that twinkle, and kissable lips. Kissable lips? Oh Jesus, read the menu. Read the menu. Remember, this is just dinner. Nothing more. If he wants a new fuck-buddy, he can look elsewhere!
    His leg brushed against hers sending a tingle all the way from her knee to her pussy. She clenched her thighs to ease the pressure. Read the menu, she chanted like a mantra.
    Tom smiled, noticing the slight movement as she pressed her legs together. So