Page 16 of The Gruff Loner’s Bargain

“Give me your hand,” I say.

She holds it out to me, and I bring it under the water and press her palm against my hard-on. “That’s what you do to me, Manhattan.”

She gasps, her eyes meeting mine.

“Now tell me that fucker’s name so I can find him and kick his ass.”

This time she gives me a watery laugh.

“You think I’m kidding. I’m so not. Men like that deserve to have a dose of what they dish out. I bet he’s a puny motherfucker, isn’t he?”

I get an even bigger laugh this time. “Thank you,” she says.

“Don’t thank me for being honest. You’re gorgeous. Your body is perfect, and you can flaunt it in front of me any time you want.” I take a step back from her so I don’t stick her hand inside my swim shorts.

She settles in across from me, her hair up in a messy bun. I wasn’t lying to her about that swimsuit instantly making me hard. Well, Brook wearing the suit is what sent all my blood southbound. I haven’t even seen her from behind, but I’m willing to be her ass looks bitable.

After I’m sure she’s good and relaxed, I speak up.

“Hey, so can I ask you a question?”

“I guess.”

“I’ve always heard that women can get off on the jets in one of these. That true?”

She stares at me, her lips parted. “Are you seriously asking me about masturbation right now?”

“I let you touch my hard-on; seems like a fair trade.”

She fights a smile and loses. “You are incorrigible. Has anyone ever told you that?”

“Probably, but don’t ask me to spell it.”

After a quick exhale, “Yes, it’s true.”

“You ever done it?”

“That is none of your business.”

“So that’s a big yes.” I wink at her.

Her arms cross over her chest, which just makes her cleavage pop more over the water. “Are you going to tell me your favorite ways to get off?”

“Oh, I see. Not only have you done it, but it’s your favorite. Nice.”

“That is not what I said.”

“I think the lady doth protest too much.”

“Did you just quote Shakespeare?”

“What? I can’t be a hairy motherfucker and appreciate the Bard?”

“Touché.” Her lips fold in and her eyes narrow. Then finally, she shrugs. “Yes, I’ve done it. Are you going to ask me to play Truth or Dare next? Maybe Spin the Bottle?”

“We can do all of those if you want.” I drain the rest of my beer. “Here’s a bottle.”

She just laughs.