One Last Dance (Oak Grove Series Book 2)

by Stopper, Nancy

  She and Karen rounded the corner and found the party in full swing. Music rang out of speakers mounted under the eaves of the roof, and people mingled around tables full of food, kegs of beer, and the fire pit where bright orange flames darted out. Someone pressed a beer into Brittany’s hand, and Karen ran off to chat with some of her former high school friends, leaving Brittany to fend for herself in a sea of strangers. She scanned the crowd, hoping for a familiar face, when a voice from behind startled her.

  “Hey, gorgeous.”

  Brittany spun around, but instead of finding the man she’d been trying to convince herself to avoid, the creep from last night leered at her. Walt. See, this was exactly why she didn’t like small towns. She couldn’t be anonymous here. He’d tracked her down, not learning his lesson last night.

  “I’m looking for someone.” She turned away from him.

  He moved in close, the scent of stale beer assaulting her senses. “I can be that someone, darlin’.”

  Brittany raised her foot. Daggone it, where were her stilettos when she needed them? Her sneakers just wouldn’t have the same effect. However, she could knee him in the crotch. That move had merit. But before she could put her plan into action, he was jerked away from her.

  She spun around.

  Her mouth gaped as Joey wrapped his hand around Walt’s collar, looking nose to nose into his eyes. “The lady’s waiting for me. Now how about you go find someone else to bug, or I’m gonna throw your ass out again.”

  Walt sputtered and threw a last glare at Brittany before rushing away, keeping a close eye on Joey the entire time.

  Joey faced Brittany, the corner of his mouth turned up. That damn smirk again. She knew exactly what he was thinking—that she was someone who needed rescuing. Well, she’d show him. “What are you doing?”

  “What? I saved you from that asshole.”

  “I’m perfectly capable of taking care of myself, thank you very much.”

  “I’m sure you are. I’m just tired of him bugging my customers.”

  “This customer didn’t need or want your help.”

  She stormed away from him, around the fire pit, and toward the tables loaded down with snacks. Her lungs burned from the breath she hadn’t released, and her hands vibrated. She clenched her jaw and pursed her lips. She’d already said too much, and who knew what else she’d say before she calmed down? She’d spent her entire life taking care of herself and her younger sister, unable to count on either of her parents. No way would she depend on a man to protect her now. The gall of him.

  She filled her plate with wings and nachos. The sandwich she’d wolfed down at the cabin was long gone. She hadn’t realized how hungry she was until she smelled the delicious scent of hot sauce. With food and drink in hand, she backed away from the table, trying to blend into the crowd. She’d mastered being invisible as a child. It had been her best defense.

  Beneath the waning light of the setting sun, small groups of friends had formed circles throughout the patio. Several couples had paired up, snuggling on a log in front of the fire or ducking into the shadows for a few quiet minutes. Men lingered beside the door to the building, beers in hand, laughing as they shared stories. The crowd was collected into groups—a couple there, a group of about ten over in the corner. Yet Brittany stood alone.

  From the outside, everything appeared perfect. But looks could be deceiving. Who knew what was hiding just beneath the surface of this idyllic scene?

  She approached Karen, waiting patiently as she finished an animated conversation with the handsome man in front of her. Maybe Karen had another reason for coming home this weekend than just visiting her mother. If only she’d warned Brittany about Joey. About how his magnetic pull might snag her and not let her go.

  Her face heated and she glanced across the yard. Her gaze met his where he still stood, arms crossed and feet apart, a huge grin on his face. She started to march across the yard to find out exactly what he found so funny.

  Karen tapped her arm. “I see you found Joey.”

  Brittany heaved a big breath and relaxed her shoulders. “Found him, all right. And he’s already pissed me off. What is it about that man?”

  “I don’t know. Why don’t you tell me? I’ve never seen you so worked up over someone before. Interesting.”

  “It’s not interesting. It’s infuriating. You remember the sleazy guy from last night? He tried to hit on me again, and before I could take care of him, Joey pulled him off me and shoved him away.”

  Karen laughed.

  “What’s so funny?”

  “Don’t you get it? He might as well have pulled your pigtails or tried to kiss you on the playground.”

  “I’m not a child, Karen. But he’s treating me like one.”

  Karen’s face grew serious. “No, he’s not. I know you’ve spent your entire life taking care of yourself. But I’ve seen Joey bounce guys out of the bar plenty of times. He’s got a major protective streak, and it looks like he’s turned his attention toward you.”

  “Maybe I don’t want it.”

  Karen raised a single eyebrow.

  Brittany opened her mouth to respond and then closed it again. Was Karen right? Had she been protecting herself so long she didn’t know how to let anyone else in? It was worth considering Karen’s words.

  The crowds mingled as the final rays of the sun sank below the horizon, bathing them in darkness. A couple of guys threw more logs on the fire pit, the flames growing into a huge ball of light and heat. As the shroud of darkness provided additional privacy, couples paired off, a few dancing on the small patio.

  If Brittany closed her eyes, she could almost feel Joey’s body against hers like last night. Just the two of them, no one else around. No one to judge her and no one to question her. She wouldn’t have imagined the rugged bartender had a romantic side. When he’d asked her to dance, she’d barely been able to contain her shock. That was just part and parcel of the Joey she was coming to know. Strong, sensitive, protective. And she’d yelled at him for doing what she’d wished someone had done her entire childhood. Yep, she’d definitely overreacted.

  “I’m happy to see the smile on your face. I hope you’re not still mad at me.” Joey’s voice was low and quiet behind her.

  She jumped, her hand over her heart.

  “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to startle you.”

  “It’s me who should apologize.”

  “No apologies necessary. I shouldn’t have stepped into your business. I saw you handle Walt last night, and I was impressed.”

  She shifted so her body fully faced him. “I overreacted. I should have said thank you… So, thank you.”

  “You’re welcome.”

  “It’s just that…” Could she trust Joey enough to share something private with him?

  Joey didn’t speak, his eyes locked on hers. The words she wanted to say were stuck in her throat. But he didn’t talk. Being behind the bar had clearly given him the ability to listen and not speak.

  “I’m used to protecting myself. I’m not used to someone else doing it.”

  “Well, darlin’…” Joey’s imitation of Walt made her laugh. “I’m happy to be that someone else anytime.”

  She chuckled. “Thanks.”

  He nestled up to her side, watching as people mingled around the bonfire. The crowd thinned as the hour grew later.

  “Dance with me,” he whispered. The huskiness of his voice sent chills down her spine.

  Before she could answer, he spun her into his arms, molding his body to hers, just like she remembered. The music rose in her ears, and for a moment, they stood alone, only the two of them, dancing in the dark to the sweet strains of a country ballad. He pulled her arms around his neck before returning his hands to her hips.

  “This is better. Now I can feel all of you.” His voice was rough and husky, rumbling deep in his chest.

  Brittany had never known words alone could turn her on. The ache in her gut built with each word he
said. His tone made everything sound sexy and intimate. Did he talk in bed, too? She wanted to find out. Very much. And that surprised her. Leaning into him, she felt the evidence of his arousal against her belly, the thickness exciting her even more.

  She ran her fingers through his hair, the strands soft and lush. He looked deep into her eyes and no more words were spoken. But the communication didn’t stop. With their eyes, their hands, their arms, their every movement, they held a silent conversation, the sparks arcing between them with each moment that passed.

  She kept her gaze on his as he lowered his head. He’d trapped her and she was helpless to look away. She licked her lips and drew in a sharp breath. His eyes fluttered closed just before he pressed his lips to hers.

  Firm but soft, his lips sent a jolt through her body with their first touch. He traced the seam of her lips and she gasped. His tongue slid in and explored her mouth, calmly, methodically, like he had all the time in the world.

  She wasn’t nearly as calm. She smoothed her hands up and down his back, clinging to anything to anchor her. Her hands finally landed at his waist and then lower, where she held on for a bit too long. His hands followed a similar path, stroking the skin of her neck beneath her hair. He caressed her arms, leaving a trail of goosebumps in his wake. The ache in her gut traveled south to her core where a tingling sensation built as the kiss continued. When he reached her jeans, he hooked his fingers into her belt loops. Maybe he wasn’t as calm as he let on. Maybe this kiss rocked him as much as it did her.

  She stroked his tongue with hers, giving and taking until they both gasped for breath. Joey pulled away, his eyes opening and landing on hers again. As the sounds around them returned, she realized the song had changed, and they had been making out rather than dancing, in public, where anyone could see.

  Joey leaned forward, his mouth right next to her ear, the heat of his breath sending chills down her spine. “I need a refill. Can I get you one?”

  “That would be great.”

  “I’ll meet you by the bonfire.”

  Joey walked away, that ass she’d just groped wrapped up neatly in his snug jeans. The sinewy muscles in his back flexed with each movement of his arms, and his biceps tightened beneath his tight black T-shirt. The movements were deliberate, sleek like a cat stalking its prey. And she was most certainly in his sights. She’d gotten caught in his trap and was helpless to escape. Every moment she spent with him had her head spinning and her heart racing. She never knew what to expect from him.

  As she waited for him, she slid onto a bench and took the opportunity to really appreciate the scene in front of her. Couples, singles, and families sitting around, having a good time with each other. The darkness gave the scene a feeling of secrecy, a familiar sentiment, having been the secret keeper in her family.

  A leg brushed against hers, and she jumped as Joey sat down beside her.

  “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to scare you.”

  “That’s all right. It’s not you, it’s me. I’m just sitting here wondering what kind of secrets people are hiding in the dark.”

  Chapter Seven

  “SECRETS, HUH? I’M not sure there are ever many secrets in a small town like this. You should ask my brother Lucas. I swear he had the entire town up in his business and gossiping about him when he and Sarah were dating.” Brittany’s eyes had shuttered, hiding every emotion she’d been broadcasting just a few minutes ago. Perhaps even hiding a secret of her own.

  “I think you’d be surprised what kind of secrets can be kept.”

  “Really... do share.”

  She dropped her gaze, his view of her face obscured by the curtain of long, dark hair framing her face. Joey turned back to the fire, the flames dancing much like Brittany last night. His initial impressions of her had proven true—she was indeed a city girl—but he’d discovered so much more about her since then. About her small-town roots and her love of the life she’d created for herself in New York. There was more there, too. He was sure of it. He just had to figure out how to dig below the surface to those secrets she’d alluded to

  Before long, the music from the speakers stopped and the few lingering voices trailed off, leaving the group to be serenaded by the sounds of nature and the peaceful strains of his buddy Owen’s music. Another buddy sat beside Joey, crowding him closer to Brittany. He didn’t mind at all. Her thigh pressed tightly against his. He didn’t know whether she did it on purpose or by accident, but he didn’t care. He’d take any chance to feel her against him.

  His foot brushed against hers. He felt like a teenager again, seeking any chance to touch his crush.

  Brittany’s unfocused gaze stayed locked on the bonfire, like she was running a million thoughts through her mind. Her shoulders were tense, her arms wrapped around her middle. It was as if a bit of the spirit he’d seen in her earlier had gone out, fiery stubbornness and happy-go-lucky attitude doused. What had changed?

  He stretched his arm along the back of the bench, his fingers brushing her shoulder. He nearly laughed out loud as memories of dating in high school flooded back.

  Brittany relaxed into his embrace and spoke, her voice barely above a whisper. “He’s really good.”

  “He is. Owen was offered a contract with a major record label but decided to stay in Oak Grove. He plays in the house band, and they sometimes have gigs in Philly or down in D.C., but mostly, he plays for the joy of it.”

  “I can’t believe he chose to stay here. Relocating to a bigger city would definitely help launch his music career.”

  “I think he didn’t like the big city. Too fast. Everyone packed in, people in your business, whether you want it or not.”

  “Exactly. That’s why I like it.”

  “What? What about the big city do you like so much?”

  “There’s always something going on. The city itself feels alive. And I love that I’m close with my neighbors. They’re my friends. We know each other, and we look out for each other, but they’re not nosy and in my business all the time. Believe it or not, I feel safe in the city where I know people always have my back.” With those words, Brittany stood and strode away.

  Joey sat for a moment longer. How had their conversation flown off the rails and lead to this diatribe? He’d never understood the appeal of the city, had always been happy living in his hometown. Shelby had chosen New York over him. Even a ring on her finger couldn’t keep her here. The town was too quiet and too boring for her fast-paced tastes and interest.

  To listen to Brittany, you would think living in a sea of eight million strangers was safer than a small town where your neighbors are your good friends and you went to school with the men who were now your best buddies. Where else could you walk into a tavern and recognize every face sitting at the bar? Surely not in the big city. A friendly face across the bar, a good greasy burger in front of him, was all he needed. In Oak Grove, his friends would always be there for him and have his back. And he would be there for them, too.

  After giving Brittany a few minutes, Joey headed across the yard, seeking her out in the darkness. Shadows danced across the ground, bouncing off the few remaining customers. But he didn’t find Brittany among them.

  He searched a bit longer before finding her huddled in the shadows, out of the light cast by the fire. She stood, her back to the wall, staring toward the flames. He couldn’t look away, puzzling about the layers comprising this complex woman. He approached her quietly so as not to startle her as he’d done earlier. The strains of a soulful ballad accompanied by Owen’s deep voice were the only sounds in the air.

  She turned toward him, her expression fiercer than he’d seen earlier. The kick-ass city girl was back.

  He smirked. This girl, he knew how to deal with. “Hey, City Girl.”

  “Yeah, so what if I am? What’s so great about a small town? Nothing but trouble, if you ask me.”

  He smirked again. Yeah, he could spar with this woman all night. Her answer held so much passion. What else wa
s she this passionate about? Would she make love with as much fire and energy? Maybe before the end of this weekend, he’d have a chance to find out. So much for his decision to swear off one night stands. Because he couldn’t have more with someone so determined to live in the city.

  Joey pressed his hand to the wall beside her head and aligned his body with hers.

  She stiffened and bristled, her breaths coming faster. Shoving him aside, she pushed off the wall and stepped away from him.

  Damn. What had he done? Whatever it was, it had spooked her.

  He leaned his back against the wall. She stood in front of him, her breathing ragged. If she wasn’t walking away, he must not have done anything that bad, right? That was encouraging.

  She’d caught him in her net and her very presence ensnared him. He was all in, hook, line, and sinker. He just needed a different approach. Reel her in like a skittish fish, a few gentle pulls at a time.

  He grasped her waist loosely, giving her plenty of time to resist before he dragged her closer to him, her body on his in the shadows. It was exactly like he remembered from last night, all soft curves against his hard muscles. One muscle that grew harder by the minute. She smelled fresh and clean, with a hint of smokiness from the fire. Not like after their unplanned dunk in the river. Her scent was intoxicating and shot straight to his gut. From now on, he would always associate the clean smell of—what was it, lavender?—with Brittany.

  He leaned closer and rubbed his cheek against hers. She gasped and her pulse thrummed in her neck. He wanted to lick her right where her neck met her shoulder. And then down between her breasts. Would her skin taste sweet or salty? Damn, just the thought of being with her had him as hard as steel. He couldn’t imagine what the real thing would do to him. He pulled back and she looked up to him expectantly. Her lips were parted and her breathing shallow. Color rose on her cheeks, but it wasn’t from embarrassment. He lowered his head to her ear, his voice barely above a whisper. “Where in the city can you have enough privacy to do this?”