Built Overnight (Middleton Hotels 5)

“I’m the head of security for a big company, so I got you,” I said with smirk.

“Head of security? That I can totally see. You look like a giant in a suit.” She glanced at my arms, then nodded her head in appreciation.

“Thanks, babe. That’s because you’re so tiny. Fuck, the thoughts I’m having. Damn, just thinking of you in my arms is getting to me,” I confessed. My dick was stretching my pants to the point I was going to rip them.

“It’s funny because you’re having the same effect on me and that’s not something that’s ever happened.”

“Damn, Denise. Tell me something else about you.”

“I love to dance. How about you?”

“I don’t know. I’ve never really danced,” I admitted. My father had been so controlling that life was dull, fearful, and structured.

“Bullshit,” she laughed.

I shook my head. “No, I really haven’t. My life has been really complicated, with a very strict upbringing. But if you want to dance, I’d learn.”

“That’s sad. I love music and dancing. Hell, we’re in Texas. Not even line dancing?”

“No. Nothing. It took until I was in the service to hear music with my brothers-in-arms.”

“You were in the military?”

“Yes, I served in the Army in Afghanistan.” It was a learning experience, and it wasn’t even the worst part of my life, even though I almost died. Under my father’s thumb, I’d nearly done so several times.

She grabbed the drink her roommate left and took a sip. “Wow. How long were you in all together?”

I needed a drink if we were going to talk about this. “Well, besides training and recovery, sixteen months. I was injured, effectively ending my military career.”

“Oh no. That’s so terrible. Do you have a prosthetic?” she asked with concern, not because she was turned off.

“No, thankfully, I was able to keep my limbs.” I tapped my thighs. There was plenty damage to them, but thanks to Jacob Middleton, I was able to recover with the best help possible.

She squeezed my hand. “I bet it was scary. I’m glad that you’re still alive.”

“Me, too. I never felt so damn thrilled like I do at this moment. Today has been one hell of a day.”

“Tell me about it. I can’t believe this.”

“Are you too embarrassed to dance with me?”

“What’s there to be embarrassed about? You’re hot, strong, and built like a tank. I don’t think there’s a soul who would dare say anything to you.”

“Okay, come on then, love. I want an excuse to hold you close.” She gave me a shy smile, but let me lead her out of the seats and toward the dance floor. The crowd was still there, so hopefully it would hide my inexperience.

I pulled her into my arms and stole a kiss, then let her go so she could lead. Rocking my hips to the side, I felt the rhythm of the music. This didn’t feel bad, but I had no idea if it looked awful. We danced together for two minutes before the song ended and she scrunched her brows. “Liar,” she accused. “You can dance.”

“I can? I didn’t say I couldn’t, but I never have. It’s easy watching you move.” We smiled at each other and I pulled her to me just as I heard the first pop. The next second, we were on the ground.

Chapter 4

Denise

I screamed just like half the room, but I was being covered by Anthony. I didn’t want him to get shot either. We needed to get out of here. It took what felt like forever for the gunfire to stop. I couldn’t believe what was happening. I was shaking as he lifted me off the floor. I tried to pull him back down, but he was too strong. Before I knew it, I was cradled in his arms and being carried outside.

“I’ve got you, Denise.” He held me close and walked down the street before he looked down at me. “Are you hurt at all?”

“No, are you?” I asked, searching all over his body with my eyes and hands.