Read Online Yule Be Mine by Lori Foster - Free Book Online Page B

biceps.
    Even through his shirt, Parker felt the tingling jolt that shot through his system and fired up his gonads. She might as well have grabbed his crotch for the way it affected him.
    Unaware of his rioting libido, Lily said, “I feel terrible that you got pulled into the middle of my mess after all you’ve been through today.”
    Before he could censor himself, Parker said, “It’s getting to be a habit.”
    Lily tilted her head and smiled. “I can think of worse habits than drawing your attention.”
    Please don’t go there . “Sorry.” Parker ran a hand over the knotted muscles in his neck. “I didn’t mean that the way it sounded.”
    â€œI understand. I…I do seem to have a bad track record with guys.”
    â€œLily…”
    â€œI don’t blame myself, though.” Rather than explain, she brightened her smile and changed the subject. “Now that Clive’s gone, why don’t you let me thank you with dinner?”
    Parker took a step back, then stopped to curse himself. Damn it, since when did women have him retreating like a green kid in middle school?
    Since Lily had moved in—smelling, looking, probably tasting like sex.
    His body flinched in excitement, and he quickly steered his thoughts in a new direction. “That’s all right. I’ll just grab a sandwich or something.”
    â€œI have plenty of fresh leftovers. Fixing you a plate of ham and potato salad won’t take any longer than making a sandwich.” Coy, Lily ducked her head, and one long blonde curl fell over her breast. “Besides, today is my birthday.”
    Ah, shit. “Yeah?” And he heard himself say, “So are you legal yet?” The second the words left his mouth, Parker clamped his lips shut. Too late.
    â€œActually,” Lily said, gazing up at him in adoration, “I’ve been legal for a while. I’m twenty-four now.”
    So it wasn’t as bad as he’d told himself. He still felt ancient. At thirty-eight, he was old enough to be her…older brother.
    â€œMy folks are on vacation,” Lily continued, and she took a tiny step forward, full of entreaty. “They won’t get home till Christmas morning. My friends are all with their families. I don’t have anyone to celebrate with—but now you’re home.”
    Just the thought of spending the night with Lily had Parker’s heart dropping to his stomach.
    With anticipation.
    â€œReally, Lily, I’m shot. I’d be lousy company.”
    â€œYou don’t have to entertain me.”
    Peculiar desperation clawed at him. If he ever had her, he wouldn’t want to let her go. But the roadblocks all remained. “I need a hot shower.”
    Her gaze dipped over him with approval, lingering on his belt buckle, then the open collar of his shirt. Parker felt his nostrils flare at her interest, and knew he fought a losing battle.
    â€œI think you look…fine.”
    Coming from her mouth, fine sounded like the greatest flattery.
    â€œBut if you want, go ahead and clean up and change out of those wet clothes. I’ll get the food ready.”
    Seeing no help for it, Parker caved. “All right. Thanks.” He made a move toward the door, hoping she’d take the hint and skedaddle so he could regroup. “Throw a plate together and I’ll come over and grab it as soon as I’m done.”
    â€œDon’t be silly.” Lily patted his chest, then let her fingers linger. Her attention on his sternum, her voice low, she said, “Leave your door unlocked.” Her gaze lifted, warm and intimate. “I’ll get everything heated up and bring it to you.”
    He’d just bet Lily could heat things up…No. Hell no. “I don’t want to put you to any trouble.”
    â€œI insist.” She traipsed out, giving one flirtatious smile over her shoulder as if she hadn’t just manipulated