Rule Breakers (Off Limits #2) - Nicky James Page 0,61

isn’t great, but they said it could be. Some bartenders make incredible tips. They had me training these past few nights because it’s quieter early in the week, and they want me ready for the weekend crowd.”

He shifted his weight again, crossing his arms and covering himself like he was ashamed of how he looked. “I dressed like this because my boss suggested I play up my looks, show some skin, wear a touch of makeup because I had those kind of eyes—whatever that means. He said it would earn me bigger tips, and he was right. I’ve been there for three days, and I’ve made more in tips than they’re paying me.”

He shrugged. “I talked to a student counselor on Tuesday. They’re refunding my second semester tuition since I dropped out of the police foundations program, but I’m going to work on finishing transferable program credits like my English class. I’ve moved to an online format so it won’t interfere with work.” He paused, lifting his chin a fraction, challenging Harley again. “Wanna keep yelling at me, Dad? You told me to grow up. I wanted you to see me as something more than a stupid kid. I did this for you as much as I did it for me. I’m trying.” His bravado slipped, and his lower lip jutted out before he caught himself and sucked it back in. “I was going to surprise you both. I just wanted to figure it out first.”

The silent standoff that followed Edison’s statement was ripe with emotion. Harley knew he’d jumped the gun and lodged his foot so far down his throat he was choking on it. I let go of his shoulders and stepped back, letting them have their moment.

Harley scrubbed the back of his neck and stretched it, looking at the ceiling as he muttered, “Shit” under his breath.

When he met Edison’s eyes again, his son had deflated. His confidence had melted away, leaving nothing more than a young boy who’d only ever wanted to make his dad proud.

“Edison… I’m sorry. Fuck, I’m so sorry.”

Edison gnawed his lip and stared at his feet. “I wanted to prove I was an adult.”

“And here I am acting like the biggest fucking kid of them all.” Harley grabbed Edison and dragged him into his arms, hugging him for all he was worth. “I’m so, so sorry. I was an ass.”

“It’s not a great job, but—”

“It’s a fantastic job, except you do stink like a fucking bar.”

“Probably. I’ve been there all night. Do you wanna know what you smell like when you get home from the strip joint?”

I snorted and covered my mouth. “He’s got you there, Har.”

“Brat.”

“Just telling it like it is.”

“I love you, kid. So much. I’m so glad I don’t have to tear your fucking dick off now.”

“Me too,” Edison squeaked.

“So.” I clapped my hands. “Now that we’ve seen what a murderously jealous beast Harley can be, should we go to bed? I’m tired. It’s late.”

Edison pulled from his dad’s arms and blinked up at him, his innocence exaggerated to the nth degree. “Were you really jealous?”

“Yeah,” Harley breathed like the heavy reality of that statement was too much to hold onto anymore. “You can’t dangle this in front of me then take it away again.” Harley brushed a thumb against Edison’s jaw, peering deep into Edison’s makeup-accented eyes, and stepped closer.

“Are you leaving, Dad?”

“Not a chance.” When Harley leaned in and kissed Edison, I sucked in a breath. I’d imagined them kissing. I’d fantasized about watching a whole lot more. The live show took my breath away.

Edison didn’t flinch. He closed his eyes and leaned into Harley, tipping his chin to get a better angle. The kiss grew more erotic the longer it went on. Harley wrapped his arms around Edison, pulling him against his body. Tongues twisted, and tiny sounds floated between both of them. I couldn’t take it anymore. I felt it thrum in my cock and tingle across my skin.

“Bed, you guys. Now.”

Harley pulled back and smoothed his thumb over Edison’s abused lower lip as Edison peeled his eyes open slowly, lust-drunk and smiling. “I’m not done with you, kid. Go shower this stink off so I can make you smell like me.”

“He’s an animal,” Edison said, his gaze shifting to me.

“I told you. Shower. Be quick.”

Edison nodded and bounced away, his eagerness apparent. Once the bathroom door closed and the water ran, I went up behind Harley and wrapped him up in my arms. “You