Chapter 150: Matt
He placed his hand on the small of Jewel's back and with gentle, guiding movements led her past several restaurants in the hotel. Fortunately, La Roca Ardiente didn't require a tie or dinner jacket, because, unlike Stephon, Matt hated wearing either.
Feeling the tension in Jewel's body, he knew things were only going to get worse. He thought about ordering her another drink, but decided to wait and see if she'd stick around long enough to finish the second one.
She was the first woman who just might run the opposite way when she discovered who they were. Their sexual preference was bound to take her over the edge if she found out tonight, and he hoped Stephon would understand and not fuck up again.
The ma顃re d' also knew their names, and seated them at a table in the far corner away from prying eyes and ears.
Jewel finished off her first drink and looked between the two men, giving them a look of mild irritation. "Would you mind telling me a little more about the job the two of you do?"
"Why don't you drink some more first?" Matt could tell by the tight set of her lips that his words pissed her off even more.
A low rumble came from other diners and Matt knew who had entered the room without needing to turn around.
Jewel only spoke the obvious. "Oh my, God. Krispin Righteous just entered with his new wife."
To Matt's annoyance, Stephon just had to say something. "It's actually the only wife he's ever had." He then stood and kissed Angela on the cheek when they approached. "Hi, love. You ready to dump this boy toy and run away?"
Angela's laugh was sweet and gentle. "I don't think I could handle the double trouble duo, but it seems you found someone who can." Angela waited for introductions.
Matt gently pulled Jewel up beside him then placed a hand on her back to make sure she didn't fall over.
Krispin moved in and put his hand out first. "Hi. I'm Krispin and this is my wife, Angela." His killer smile only accentuated his too perfect face.
"Um, hi," Jewel said and shook his hand.
Matt felt Jewel's body tremble, and he wanted to kick Krispin for flustering her even more than the evening was bound to.
Angela moved forward and gave Jewel a soft smile. "Nice to meet you."
"Thank you. It's nice to meet you both." At least Jewel appeared to be getting her legs back beneath her.
"Is this a private party or do you mind if we join you?" Krispin wasn't really asking them, and nodded to a waiter who hastily pulled two chairs over and began setting up more place settings.
Daggers shot from Matt's eyes and he saw Krispin's twinkle with devilment, enjoying causing trouble. Matt wanted to groan.
"If you don't mind, I need to have a word with Jewel. Please order whatever the special is and we'll be back in a moment." He didn't wait for a reply before leading her from the restaurant. He walked to an alcove about twenty-five feet from the double doors leading into the lobby and was thankful the small space was empty. He didn't say a word, just backed her up and ground his mouth onto hers, using his tongue, trying to forestall the explosion he knew was just under the surface.
She didn't have much room, but still managed to connect the tip of her shoe with his shin.
He pulled back instantly. "Ow."
Ice-blue eyes met his. "Who the hell are you?"
"A guitar player."
Matt could see the gears in her head tumble. "Oh God, you're part of Blood Rights, aren't you?" Disbelief showed on her face.
"Yes."
"When did you plan on telling me?"
"Tonight."
"You don't think you could have told me last night before you fucked me?" Jewel's voice was rising.
He wasn't sure quite what to do, so he leaned in, hoping his lips would quiet her.
"If you kiss me, I will bite your tongue off and spit it out. Answer my question."
He ran his hand through his hair. "I'm selfish. I wanted you. I wanted someone who didn't give a shit who I was. I won't regret last night and I hope there are more nights that are even better."
She slowly exhaled and tears gathered in her eyes. "You could have anyone you wanted."
Her face crumpled and she tried lifting her hands up, but he stopped her. "Look at me." Her gaze met his. "Breathe."
She did and a few moments later grinned with embarrassment. "I'm sorry."
He lightened the mood. "For going all google-eyed over Krispin Righteous? I'm used to it, but he wouldn't look quite so sexy if I knocked out a few teeth."
Her grin turned into a full out smile and she leaned in, placing a gentle kiss on his lips. "I was not google-eyed."
Pulling her close, he took her lips in a deep kiss. Finally lifting his head, he gave her a crooked smile. "Definitely googled, but we can go up to my room and you can make it up to me."
She blushed and then peered over his shoulder at the doors leading to the restaurant. "They think I'm a fool."
"They think you're lovely." He pushed a piece of hair from her cheek and put it behind her ear.
She took a slow, steady breath. "Can we go back in?"
"Of course, but we can leave whenever you want." He wrapped his arm around her waist to lead her back inside.
"And miss having dinner with Krispin Righteous?"
He gently pinched her hip. "You're just like all the other women."
"Does that mean I'm a groupie?"
"God, no, it means you're one of the band."
Krispin, Stephon, and Angela were having a lively conversation and the men stood when she approached.
Angela looked at her with a smile and a touch of sympathy. "Stephon told us we ruined their surprise."
Jewel blushed and everyone laughed.
Ten minutes later, Jewel seemed to unwind, relax, and enjoy herself. Matt knew most women had trouble resisting Krispin when he laid on the charm, but it made Matt feel good that she glanced away from the sex god from time to time and gave him a carnal smile. Unfortunately, she never gave Stephon more than a tight grin even when he behaved himself.
Before dessert arrived, Angela stood and asked Jewel if she would accompany her to the ladies room. The men all knew it was the secret sisterhood code for 'let's talk alone,' but there was nothing any of them could do. Their eyes, along with those of every other man sitting in the restaurant, followed the stunning women out of the room.