I chuckle and pat Sophie’s thigh. “I’m sorry, Valerie. What is it?”
“I asked you if you were paying any attention at all.”
“Well, then you got your answer,” I argue.
“And your attention.” She smirks and takes a long drink from her margarita. She holds out her hand and Hunter puts money in it. “Thank you for doubting me.”
“I’m not sorry. I like how happy you are to make a scene.” Hunter is obviously into her.
Probably because she keeps turning him down. He’s not used to it. None of the guys are. I doubt even Lief has an issue with girls … if he’d approach. Chase, not to be outdone, whispers something in Valerie’s ear.
She grins a wicked smile and I know we’re in for more trouble.
“Holden.” Valerie turns her voice sweet.
Holden looks over and arches an eyebrow. He’s suspicious already. He moves slightly and looks between Valerie and Sophie. His eyes narrow. I know where Sophie’s legs are. Whatever made him squirm, it’s not Sophie. She’s busy.
“Valerie, perhaps you should switch to water.”
“Are you sure? I’m trying to live my best life in New York.” She licks her bottom lip.
Oh, no. I’ve seen Sophie jealous. Let’s not go there. But she has turned to Nick and is actually biting his jacket. I glance down and see his fingers moving under her panties and I rub the back of her neck.
“Valerie is flirting with your man,” I whisper in her ear.
She turns her hazy gaze to Holden who looks uncomfortable as hell. He doesn’t like being flirted with. He takes it as someone setting him up. I know that.
“Be nice, V.” Sophie murmurs.
She gently touches Nick’s wrist and he releases her. Valerie puts her hands out, eyes on Sophie. Chase grins and puts more money in her palm. “That’s two. Anyone else want to bet against my skills?”
“To do what, destroy moments?” I smirk at her.
“I’d bet you that I can drink you under the table.”
“I’ve seen you drink, Valerie. I know I’ll win and I don’t feel like carrying you again.”
That gets Chase and Hunter’s attention. Lief just takes another drink. Valerie gives him a look and takes a drink of hers. I see them race to finish and then a smile tugs his lips up in something close to a smile.
They say nothing, but I know there’s something going on there. I smile. “Valerie, I bet you to tell me what you think of each of these poor men trying to get your attention.”
“Which ones? Our waiter’s been making eyes at me. Or the guy on the plane. The taxi driver that told me I could change in the back seat and he wouldn’t look, or these three boneheads?”
I laugh and Sophie shakes her head, barely hiding her smile.
We get through dinner with plenty of conversation, then we get home and Valerie whispers something to Sophie and goes right to bed. Sophie looks at the four of us eagerly, eyes flicking between us.
“Bambina, whatever you’re thinking is trouble. Wait on it.” Roman advises.
She takes a step away like we’re going to chase her and then reaches behind her. Fuck no. Not when we can’t have her. She takes another step back when Nick steps forward.
“You have a guest.” He reminds.
“Didn’t stop you.” She huffs.
Holden shakes his head. “Behave.”
“Or what?” There’s that naughty smile. “You can’t punish me until she leaves.”