Risking the Crown (The Crown 2)

“Not near the resorts. They are inside the city limits. As long as we’re out here near the north part of the island, it’s ok.” Sasha continued toward the party.

There was enough light from the fire for me to perform a quick head count. I added up thirty people. They were scattered in small clusters. Sasha led me over to a group of people standing near a collection of coolers.

“Everyone, this is Kaitlyn.”

Two of the guys in the small circle turned around. I didn’t recognize them from behind without their hats, but I would know those smiles anywhere.

“We know this girl. Hey, there, Carolina.” Lance loudly broadcast my new nickname. He and Cal each slung an arm around my shoulders and squeezed.

“Wait, how do you know these guys?” Sasha looked confused.

“I met them last night at Peabody’s. They volunteered as my pool coaches.” I shrugged my shoulders.

Sasha laughed. “I’m sure they did. Always so eager to help out.” She jabbed Cal in the ribs.

“Ouch, girl.” Releasing me from the hug, Cal grabbed Sasha by the waist, threw her over his shoulder, and made a circle around the fire.

“Calhoun McCoy, put me down!” Sasha shrieked.

Everyone had turned to watch Sasha and Cal circling the bonfire. I could hear some of the guys cheering Cal on. Someone suggested he take her down to the water and toss her in.

“Didn’t think I’d get to see you again so soon.” Lance’s hand slid from my shoulder.

“Crazy small world I guess.” I turned away from Cal and Sasha.

“Yeah, crazy.” He shifted in the sand. “So, how do you know Sasha?”

“It’s kind of funny. Remember how I told you the airlines lost my luggage?”

He nodded.

“Well, the other half of the nightmare story yesterday was that I lost my reservation at the Wave Oasis. That’s where I met Sasha. She was nice enough to recommend the Dune Scape and invite me tonight.”

“You’re staying at the Dune?” It sounded like Lance tripped on the words.

“I didn’t have much choice.”

Cal had finally placed Sasha on her feet, and she was half-teasing, half-threatening him through a series of kisses.

“You want a drink or something?” Lance asked, holding up his red plastic cup.

Watching another couple make out had cast an awkward cloud on our conversation, as if we had somehow been paired together. “Definitely. What’s in there?”

“All kinds of stuff.” He grinned. “Be right back.” I lost track of him as he disappeared into the crowd.

“I didn’t take you for the bonfire type.” The deep voice carried over my ear. I wasn?

??t prepared for the chills it sent down my back and arms.

I whipped around and tried to ground my senses. Cole stood inches from me. He was holding out a red cup for me.

“Why wouldn’t I be?” I took the cup and a cautious sip. The drink tasted like a lime-flavored beer combination. It was refreshing.

“I don’t know. I thought you liked to dance.” He smirked as he held the cup to his lips.

I almost choked on my drink. “You went to one of my dance recitals. One.”

It might have been the flames from the bonfire, but his eyes flickered like he wanted to lure me into a confrontation.