Soft sounds drifted from an area where people were dancing. Not the bump and grind one would expect in Tampa, but a more classic style that complemented the smooth, Sinatra-esque music playing. Jessa was instantly enchanted.
Her three-inch heels clicked against the mismatched stone floor and she prayed she wouldn’t fall and break her neck. The pretty hostess fawned over Garrett, casting flirty glances over her shoulder as she escorted them to their table. Garrett was all smiles, chatting with her about her favorite food and drink selections. The girl acted as if she might actually swoon at the attention.
When they arrived at their table, Garrett took the girl’s hand and brought her knuckles to his lips. “Thank you for the assist.” When he winked, Jessa saw he’d placed a bill in her palm. It was sweet of him to tip the girl, but did he have to be so blasted charming about it?
Jessa leaned over and kept her voice low. “You slip her your room number, too?”
Garrett looked at her as if she’d grown horns. “You kidding? She’s a baby for chrissake. I’m not going to jail over a piece of ass.” He shook his head. “I can’t believe you asked me that.”
Jessa shrugged him off and turned to greet the others at the table. Jim was there, along with his wife, Joanna. Jim’s constant sidekick and catcher Miles Sturdivant sat next to them with his wife, Amy. Renowned bad boy and first baseman Tyler Brady, who was also one of Garrett’s closest friends from college if she remembered correctly, rounded out the group.
Jim stood and reached for her hand. “Jessa, it’s nice to see you. I was surprised when Garrett said you’d be joining us tonight. You remember my wife, Joanna?”
“Of course.” Jessa shook Jim’s hand. “It’s lovely to see you both again.” She extended her hand to Miles, then Amy. “It’s good to see you, Miles. Amy.” She smiled at the men and fidgeted with the strap on her purse. “You guys are looking good out there.”
Well, this isn’t awkward.
Garrett signaled to the waiter and pointed Jessa toward an empty chair.
“What about me, pretty girl?” Tyler stood, making Jessa crane her neck.
Tyler’s smile was so beautiful it made her teeth hurt. It was easy to see why women fell at his feet. His hair was longer and a shade lighter than Garrett’s, but they had the same piercing blue eyes. Growing up in neighboring states, Tyler even had the same smooth, Southern lilt that Garrett sported. Hell, they could’ve been brothers.
Tyler was way too handsome for his own good. Good thing she was immune. There was only one man here tonight who made her pulse race.
Tyler took her hand and pulled her close. “Nice dress.”
Garrett made a noise as Jessa pushed at Tyler’s chest. “Uh, thanks, Tyler. Nice to see you, too. Now, get off me.” She laughed nervously, giving him a shove. She’d known him for a few years, but he’d never tried to hug her before. She had no idea what had prompted the display now.
Tyler released her, laughing so loud several people turned to stare. “So, Jessa Montgomery,” he drawled. “Out with the little people, huh? You decide to do a little slummin’ tonight?”
Garrett stiffened at her side. “Damn it, Tyler.”
Jessa gripped Garrett’s forearm as he tried to step in front of her. She glanced around the table. Wide eyes were on her, as if waiting for her reaction. She turned to Tyler again, his eyes gleamed with amusement. Testing her, was he? Setting the tone for the evening? She didn’t know whether to be grateful or to kick his arrogant ass.
“You know,” she tapped her chin with her finger, “that thought never crossed my mind.” She tilted her head and considered him. “Until I saw you, that is.” She put her hand to the side of her mouth and whispered to Garrett, loud enough for everyone to hear. “Tyler definitely qualifies as slummin’, don’t you think?”
Garrett laughed and gave Tyler a smug smile. “You got my vote on that one, darlin’.”
“Mine, too.” Miles chimed in.