If We Dare - J.H. Croix Page 0,25

way too familiar kiss. Goose bumps rose on my skin, heat spun in pinwheels through my body, and desire fizzed in my veins with every chance look and touch.

Just now, I experienced a moment of feeling bereft when he leaned over to whisper in my ear in that sexy, gravelly voice of his that he needed to make a toast. He squeezed my shoulders before he stood, and I instantly missed his warm, strong presence.

He leaned down and said something to Dave before straightening and looking out over the crowd assembled in the room. Walker was rakishly handsome—with his dark hair, those smoke-silver eyes, and that quiet way of carrying himself. Before these last few days, I’d thought him reserved. I’d also been annoyed by him. I could barely, just barely, admit to myself that was because the attraction sizzled between us no matter what, and that annoyed me. It had tested my belief that I couldn’t be affected like that.

Now, having spent more time with him, I’d seen a few more flashes of the man underneath the surface. Unfortunately for me, getting to know Walker only served to deepen my attraction to him. There was that kiss.

Just now, he cast a teasing smile toward Dave before he looked out over the crowd again. He didn’t even have to clear his throat, or do anything else to silence the crowd. His presence alone demanded enough.

After the wedding ceremony, he’d done away with his tie, although he still had his suit jacket on. My eyes kept lingering on the deep bronze skin revealed against the crisp white shirt where he’d undone several buttons.

Casting his smile over the crowd, he lifted his champagne flute high. “Apparently, the best man is expected to give a toast. Although I never was that great at following convention.” There were a few low chuckles that rumbled through the crowd at that. “Dave is my oldest and closest friend. If anyone deserves a toast after his wedding, it’s him. To be quite honest, I was surprised when Dave first spoke to me about Jenny. As many of you know, Dave met Jenny while I was overseas. I didn’t have a chance to do any vetting for him.”

The crowd laughed again, and Walker glanced at Jenny. “Turns out, Dave didn’t need me to vet Jenny. The first time I saw them together, I knew he was down for the count. If only, because Jenny is perfect for him. I’m not talking about how beautiful she is. That’s obvious to anyone who sees her. I’m talking about the fact she can hold her own and brings out the best in him. Dave was a most excellent dedicated bachelor and is absolutely one of the most loyal and solid people I know. It stands to reason that if he’s going to fall, he’ll fall hard.”

My chest tightened slightly. Although Walker’s tone was light and teasing, I sensed he was dead serious underneath.

“I can’t pretend to be an expert on love, although I suppose I could claim to be some sort of expert on Dave. I have known him since first grade. He was always a looker, even then.” That comment got a good laugh from the crowd and an eye roll from Dave as Jenny leaned over to kiss his cheek. “I’ll say this, I might have been surprised Dave fell in love, but I’m not surprised in the least that he fell for Jenny. And you, my dear, well, you found yourself the best kind of man. Those who matter to Dave matter forever. Welcome to the club, although you’ve been in it since the day he met you. I have absolutely no doubt you two will have a long and happy marriage. I also have no doubt there will be plenty of arguments along the way. That’s how Dave shows his love.” More laughter accompanied this along with a nod of agreement from Jenny. “I wish you nothing but happiness. Know that to everyone who counts you as friends, we’re rooting for you. One last thing, Dave bet me that I believe in love. When I asked why, he said it was because he knew I believed in him and Jenny. And, I absolutely do. So if my cynical heart can buy it, you can rest assured it’s the real deal.”

At that, glasses were raised, mine included. Then, Walker returned to my side, sliding his arm around my shoulders as he set his champagne flute down on the