Page 74 of Firsts

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A luncheon for wealthy business people is not how I wish to spend my Sunday afternoon, especially after a hot moment with my cousin.

We’ve been here for over two hours, and I’m overwhelmed.

Reid doesn’t appear to mind. He moves about the event, talkative and polite. I suppose his mom trained him for this life, considering he’s on the path to taking over once she steps down.

Sneaking outside, I stroll toward the trees, remove my shoes, and haul myself onto a thick limb. I throw my legs over to get comfortable.

Logan crosses my mind while I’m admiring the greenery. I’m sure I upset him the other night.

I take my phone from the clutch and call him.

“Hey,” he answers on the second ring, voice even.

“Hey. Um, I wanted to talk about Friday night. Logan, I didn’t mean to—”

“Don’t worry about it, Cass. I get it. You’re right. I don’t have to call so much.” He falls quiet again.

“Is there something on your mind?”

“Yeah. Listen, Cassie. We’ve known each other long, and I was wondering if you’ve ever….” He seems to be having a hard time getting the words out.

My mind and body become distracted as Reid exits the building. He scans the area, doing a doubletake when he spots me, and I heat up as he starts over.

Logan’s lengthy exhale fills the line.

“What was that?” I ask, snapping back to my friend.

“Nevermind. We’ll talk when you get back.”

“Okay.” As Reid closes in, I wrap up the call. “Um, I’m at an event with Aunt Helena. I was just calling to clear up what happened.”

“Oh, all right. Love you, Cass.”

Reid reaches me as I reply, “You too.” I don’t want to say those words to another guy while he’s around me. Even if Logan is my best friend, I doubt he’d be okay with it.

“Who are you talking to?” he asks.

“Um, Logan.”

He sniffs. “Why did you sneak off?”

I shrug and cross my feet at the ankles, swinging them. “Catching my breath. It’s a bit overwhelming inside.”

He looks behind, then moves closer and touches my legs. “Come here.”

I look at the building. “Reid, someone might see.”

He shakes his head. “So hurry down.”

Eager for whatever he’s about to do, I jump down from the tree and slide on my wedge sandals.

He takes my hand, and I let him lead me behind a tree. His lips find mine instantly.

Reid nips at my bottom lip before easing back. “Turn around.”

I do as he says, keeping watch on the building as he lowers and sticks his head between my legs, making me tremble as he splays soft kisses on my thighs.