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something that will either embarrass me or piss Julia n off.
    “We’re heading out. Just wanted to say goodnight and tell you we’re lea ving.”
    He hugs me back as best as he can over the bar and whispers in my ear, “Go home now.”
    I shake my head and laugh at him. He’s acting more protective than I’ve seen him since the one night during my junior year in college when one of his drunk-ass frat brothers wouldn’t keep his hands off of me during a party. Luke was this close to getting in a fight that night, and looking back, it really wasn’t that big of a deal. If I didn’t understand why he was acting this way, I would be so annoyed. But Luke knows better than anyone what I’ve been through the last year, and I can’t help but be understanding about why he’s acting a little crazy. He obviously really thinks I need to stay away from Julian. The problem is I’m not sure I want to stay away from Julian, or that I’ll be ab le to.
    I look over at Julian, who’s still standing there watching us. He doesn’t look like he has any intention of being the first one to walk away this time. Julian is Luke’s boss, and I’m sure Luke can sense Julian and I both want him to walk away. So he does. But not before giving me that “be careful” look.
    “Happy birthday, Luke,” I call playfully as he walks away. He doesn’t turn around but does put up his hand to acknowledge he heard me. Yep, he’s not happy with me, and I know I can expect a lecture later.
    As I turn back around to face Julian, I see Marissa heading toward me, motioning to me it’s time to go. I know they’ve been downstairs waiting for me, but right now the last thing I want to do is leave. But, I also know with everything inside me, I need to. I put my hand up to Marissa, telling her to stop, and mouth the words, “I’m coming.” At least I mean to mouth the words.
    I turn to look at Julian, and he’s laughing. Shit. I just basically screamed, “I’m coming,” right in front o f him.
    “Sounds promising, Alexa.” Oh My God, I could die right here on the spot.
    “But maybe we should get to know each other a little bit better before we get all up-close and personal.” He’s totally making fun of my earlier comment. Again, I’m speec hless.
    He leans in so close to me that his face is right next to mine and says seductively, “In answer to your earlier question, yes, there is an expiration date on my offer. The sooner you take advantage of it, the better.” His words and closeness make me even dizzier than I already am. Before I have a chance to come up with a witty response, Julian gently kisses me on the cheek. His lips feel so warm and soft. Yes, I feel this kiss too, all over my body and especially between my legs.
    “Goodnight, Alexa. I hope to see you again really soon.” Julian winks at me and walks away down th e bar.

Chapter Four
    I don’t talk much on the ride home. I’m concentrating hard on not getting sick. Damn. Why did I have that last drink? Now every time I close my eyes I get the spins. I also don’t feel like talking about my night in front of Cory. I tell the girls we can talk about it in the mo rning.
    It’s late, I’m drunk and tired, and I need to go to bed. I slip into a tank top and pair of boxers, wash my face, and crawl under the covers. I’m ready to be alone with my thoughts, my thoughts of Julian. I fall asleep picturing his lips on mine.
    Damn! I forget to turn my phone off and I’m woken up when my phone buzzes repeatedly indicating I have a new text. I know it’s from Luke even before I look at it. Nobody else I know would be texting me at three in the morning. I knew he would want to talk about what happened at St ellar.
    Luke: You up Hooka?
    Alexa: Um. Am now .
    Luke: He wanted to know if you were single
    Al exa: ?
    Luke: Julian…you know…The guy who wants in your p anties
    Alexa : And?
    Luke: Said yes…single…but that you’re a l esbian
    Alexa: haha. Seri ously?
    Luke: You’re