A Taste of Spring

Summer's voice, tone, and pitch, irritated him. With her sarcasm, it was like claws scratching down a chalkboard. "When is this game of fuckery you and your partner in crime have started, going to end?"

The look Summer gave him was vicious. It was one he saw often enough to know that in her mind, she was filleting him open to fry in boiling oil. Hers was impressive but he wasn't moved to retract his question, the implied accusation he added to it, or the heat he infused it with.

(Fuck her.)

"If by game, you mean the game of love, then my dear sweet BOY, I imagine it will last forever."

"Just stop the shit." Fallon noticed Jeremy, the bartender, so he raised his glass. "What it is isn't anything close to love. It's a total money grab and you know it. What's the plan? Get Dez to fall in love with her then milk him for a few months before moving on? Or, are your goals more long term? Marriage, then take him for all he's got in the divorce settlement?"

"You know what's scary about you?" Summer took hold of his cheek between her fingers and squeezed like one would do a baby. He pulled away so fast that her hand hovered in the air until she shrugged then lowered it. Summer continued, ignoring his move. "It's that you actually believe the mess you dream up in your little ole head. Now, be gone. You're messing with my chi." She flicked her wrist and started to turn, offering him her back.

(This viper did not just dismiss me.)

curls. He pasted a tight-lipped smile on his face as he tapped her on her shoulder. "Look, this may be just another

motion. "Blah blah blah, I know. He's a good guy. You've watched his back for years. Your Bromance is legendary." Summer rolled her eyes. "Save it for the good girls. Us bad

---------

DEZMOND

back to their booth, Dez felt a tinge of guilt pass through him. In truth, he didn't even notice his friend leave. Spring had him hook, line, and sinker. It was a feeling that had him wanting to run from the building with his balls in his hand, proclaiming that he didn't lose them yet. But he also wanted nothing more than to go shopping for a leash, get his

with his neck extended, waiting for her

as he

early,"

a short wave

be right back." He scooted out of the booth and followed the path Fallon took. Outside, Fallon stood at the edge of the curb with his hand up for a taxi. "Hey,

just as a cab pulled up.