“Yeah, it’s kind of a big deal around here.” He opens the fridge and pulls out two beers, offering me one. “The whole town goes all out.”
“Thanks. So what are you doing for it? Is Skin & Ink going to have a booth or…?”
“We’ve got a few things going on.” He leans against the counter. “I’m doing a shift at the dunk tank Saturday afternoon. Then I’ll be manning the batting cages the rest of the day.”
I can’t help the grin that spreads across my face. “Noia mentioned the dunk tank.”
He winks at me. “You like seeing me all wet, don’t you?”
“Sure. Forcharity,” I shrug, taking a sip of my beer to hide my smile.
“Ha. We’re also gonna have a temp tattoo and face painting booth. Nothing crazy, mostly just some fun designs for the kids... and maybe a few adults who want to test drive some ink before committing.” He tilts his head. “What about you? Is Summit doing anything?”
“Actually, yes. I’m going to offer free mini-yogaclasses throughout the day. And I’m donating a one-month free membership for the silent auction.”
“Smart,” he nods approvingly. “Get ‘em hooked with the freebies.”
“Exactly. There’s something special about community events like this. It’s a great way to meet people.”
The doorbell rings, and Jax pushes off the counter. “That’ll be the pizza.”
While he answers the door, I take another look around.
There are a few framed sketches on the walls that I assume are his work—detailed, intricate designs that showcase his raw talent. But what catches my eye is a photo on the bookshelf of Jax with an older man who I assume must be his dad, standing in front of what looks like the J & R Ranch.
“Ready to watch the movie?” Jax asks as he sets a large pizza box on the coffee table.
“Sure. What are we watching?”
He moves to grab some paper plates from the kitchen. “Pretty Woman.”
I almost choke on my beer. “Pretty Woman? Really?”
“What? It’s a classic.” He looks almost offended as he comes over and hands me a plate. “Don’t tell me you don’t like it.”
“No, I… love it actually,” I admit, taking a seat on the couch. “I’m just surprised you picked it.”
“Hey, now. I love a good rom-com just as much as the next guy.” He drops down beside me, leaving at least half a foot of space between us. “And… I’ve got layers. Lots of layers.”
We dish out the pizza and he starts the movie. It feels comfortable, sitting here with him like this. No pressure, just two people enjoying good food and an even better movie. It strikes me how easy it is to be around him when we’re not... well, tearing each other’s clothesoff.
As we watch, I find myself getting drawn in despite having seen it multiple times.
When we reach the scene where Edward comes home from work to find Vivian sitting at a table naked, wearing just a tie, Jax lets out a low chuckle.
“What?” I ask, glancing over at him.
“That…” he says, pointing his beer bottle at the TV as Vivian tells Edward she bought the tie for him. “…is on pretty much every guy who’s ever watched this movie fantasy bucket list.”
Intrigued, I study his face. “Oh, yeah? Is it on yours?”
He meets my gaze, eyes going dark. “Maybe.”
The air between us suddenly feels charged, and I’m acutely aware of how close we’re sitting, disappointed we’re not touching. I can almost feel the heat radiating from his body.
“There are so many things I could do with a tie.” He licks his lips, his gaze lingering on my mouth.
But he doesn’t make a move. Instead, he just gives me a slow, deliberate smile, before turning his attention back to the TV.