Speed King (Men of Action 1)

I’d bring some things over after I spoke to the other guys and got a sense about how they felt about it. It’s easier to read their personal opinions when we’re face to face.

With us spending all of our time here when we’re together, it makes sense. “I’ll talk to the guys tomorrow.”

He understands without explanation. “You do that.”

“And I’ll bring over things to fill at least two drawers and a few feet of the closet if they agree.”

He closes in on me, his cocky grin loaded with purpose. “I’ll help you pack.”

Major’s hunched over the kitchen island with his back to the room when I enter. Without warning, I plaster myself to him.

“Jay?”

“Promise me, if you get the call to leave, promise me you’ll be careful.”

“Kingston told you,” he states grimly.

“He told me.”

“We’re always careful.”

I tighten my arms on his ribcage, using all my strength to hug tight, pressing my face into his shoulder blades. Like Achilles, his solid frame is like steel against my hold. His hands cover mine and squeeze. “Promise.”

“Fuck, I’m not in the mood to go head-to-head with Ace when he sees his lady attached to you.” Talon’s voice sounds from behind, and I spin, releasing Major to find him and Ford standing at the edge of the room, still in uniform. Talon’s amused expression barely registers before I take off and launch myself into his arms.

“Promise me you’ll be careful!” I squeal, holding tight as he rocks back.

“Jay—”

“Promise,” I cut him off.

“Man, she’s got a wicked grip,” Major informs him.

Talon’s arms go around me, and he nods against my head. “Promise.”

I twist and reach for Ford, tugging him close. “Ford?”

“Promise.”

“I needed to hear it from each of you.” My forehead drops to the edge of their shoulders. I know they are sharing a look right now that says I’m emotional and overacting, but I don’t care. Hearing them confirm their commitment to stay safe helps my nerves.

“Harley, you know we dig you, but Ace’s eyes are blazing,” Talon utters in my ear, and I let them go.

My feet are barely on the ground when Ace folds around me. “That’s the last time you get coffee without me.”

“Stop being a brute.”

“Don’t enjoy walking in to find you clinging to other men, even if they are these dipshits.”

“I’m actually surprised she’s resisted me this long,” Talon goads him with a smug grin.

I giggle as a low hum rolls from Ace’s throat.

“Take it from that greeting, Jay’s been briefed?” Ford changes the subject before Talon can’t spur him more.

Ace jerks his chin.

“Actually, it’s good you all are here at the same time. We wanted to talk to you about something.”

My fingers lace with his, waiting for him to take over. His eyes meet mine and dance with amusement.

“You wanted the big production, this is your show.”

“No, you need to ask. It’s the gentlemanly thing to do.”

“When did Ace become a gentleman? This should be good.” Major leans against the island, crossing his arms with a wide grin.

They all stare at me until my stomach rolls in a knot.

“For fuck’s sake, should we put her out of her misery?” Ford chuckles.

“Nah, let’s wait her out,” Talon suggests with his own lip-splitting grin.

Prickles crawl across my skin before the embarrassment hits. “You all know, don’t you?”

“That Ace is moving you in and making that wing a love nest?”

At Ford’s statement, the four of them burst out laughing, and my embarrassment turns to a rush of heat through my veins. “It’s not a love nest!”

“Sin Den?” comes from Major.

“Lover’s Lair?” Talon adds.

“Play & Stay?” Ford finishes them out.

I half-twist into Achilles to find him enjoying this a little too much. “Stop laughing!”

“They are fucking with you.”

“I’m trying to be polite in checking with the occupants of this house before I practically move myself in.”

“A few drawers and closet space doesn’t mean you're moving fully in,” he corrects me. “But I’m totally game if you’re offering.”

“Achilles! Stop being ridiculous.”

“I’m not the one sweating over asking a bunch of grown men if they have a problem with you staying here.”

“I’m being respectful of your home,” I grumble, turning back.

“The Casanova Club needs a new member. You’ll do.” Talon winks. “Besides, I liked this morning’s greeting. Next time, let’s shoot for fewer clothes.”

“Why do I try?” I aim my eyes at the ceiling, feeling foolish.

“Anytime you want to have your chick clique, I’m okay with that, too.”

I swing my gaze to Major, seeing my opportunity to butt in. “Anyone in particular?”

His eyes flare before he shakes his head. “Nice tits, hot ass, low maintenance, and not looking for more than a good time.”

“If we’re throwing out preferences, I’ll take the tits and ass, too. Attitude’s not a deal breaker, but ditto on the good time. Nothing more.”

“You guys are pigs. With those expectations, this will turn into a Casanova Club.”