Pierced Hearts (Southern Charmers 1)

“Jesus Christ, what’s happening here?” I mumble under my breath.

“It’s a little late to look afraid. Darby has always wanted to be a mom. If it happens sooner than she planned, she’ll adapt. It’s a win-win.”

“You can stop talking now. I’m pretty sure this is not a conversation to have my future father-in-law.”

“Probably not, but you need a push.”

I eye the cooler, considering calling an Uber to take me to the airport. Getting drunk may be the only way to get me through this afternoon.

“At least, tell me you’ll consider what I’ve said.”

“I’m not agreeing to that out loud. Darby would castrate me.” I fling him a look like he’s crazy. Or crazier.

“Speaking of Darby, let’s pretend this conversation never happened. I’ll act surprised when you make the announcement.”

“I’m already scrubbing my brain and hoping I don’t have nightmares for the rest of my life.” Evin rubs circles on his temple.

“Just for the record, Jill and I would love a baby in August,” Dad throws in his first words since this insane conversation started.

“I’m going to get the fryer ready for the turkey.” Miller rounds the cabana and stops on my other side. “A piece of advice.”

The amusement in his voice sends a prickle over my skin. He’s having far too much fun with this. “No, I don’t want any advice from you.”

“Too bad, because now that he’s planted the seed, I’m on board. But you need to get it out of your head. It’ll mess with your success.”

“What the hell are you talking about?”

“With your track record, it’s best you keep not trying. Avoid pregnancy at all costs. Stick with that mindset and put in the extra effort.” He smiles wide, thinking he’s clever and proud of himself.

Evin chuckles behind me.

I have the decency to yank Miller’s phone out of his pocket before I send him flying into the pool.

Take that, shithead.

•—•—•—•—•

“This is a much better plan.” Darby nestles in between my legs, leaning back against my chest. “No wonder the brochures always include couples in front of a sparkling fire pit.”

“It wasn’t my idea to ski today.”

“I wanted to get the whole experience and see what all the hype is about. Apparently, I need a lot more practice. My butt is going to be black and blue. You made it look easy.”

“I used my athleticism to my advantage.”

“You’ve been doing that a lot since you arrived.” She wiggles in exactly the right spot to graze against my balls. I’m hard instantly.

“You’re athletic where it counts.” I thrust my hips so she can feel what she’s done.

“Maybe we should try again tomorrow morning?”

“Baby, you spent more time on your ass and back than you did actually standing. I can think of much better things to do when you’re on your ass and back.”

She whips her head to the side, giving me a dirty look. “You’re making fun of me. You think it’s funny I made a fool of myself.”

I take a sip, hoping to hide my grin.

“Oh my God, stop smiling.” My attempt fails.

“You were adorable and highly entertaining. I have video to prove it.”

“I’m going to take lessons. Next time you’re here, I’m going to ski like a pro.”

“You’re not taking lessons unless you find a female instructor.” Her instructor from today pops into my head. He enjoyed picking her up off the ground too much.

Her eyes narrow into slits. “Why is that?”

“That guy today couldn’t take his eyes off of you and not because it was his job. It was easy to tell what he was thinking. Darby, you want to learn, I’ll help you next time.”

“He was a boy! And I was a marshmallow.”

“Even under all those layers, you can’t hide your level of sexy. He noticed. Since you’ve never had any other man in your life, you haven’t been introduced to the playboy lifestyle. And that’s what that guy lives. No doubt he gets a laid a lot.”

“I’m not naïve, and you honestly can’t think any of those boys would hit on me.”

“Any man with a pulse, who thought they had a shot, would hit on you. Let’s not give them the opportunity.”

“You’re ridiculous.” She turns back to face the fire. “I’ll find a female instructor.”

I kiss over the soft knit of her cap and brush my lips on the shell of her ear. “I’m protective and jealous, always have been when it comes to you. Don’t act like it’s a surprise.”

She relaxes with a short nod. The small band on the outdoor terrace begins to play, and people file out from the lobby. Darby was right; the resort is a new experience this trip. It’s not only the difference in appearance with the onset of winter but the whole atmosphere. Every member of the Brasher staff has perfected the art of making their guests happy.