Tamed: A Huntress Spin-off Novel Read Free Page B

gave me a disapproving look, one that said he had no problem calling my father over my shenanigans.
    “Virgin Margaritas, of course.” Yeah, right, momma needs a drink.
    I threw my arm over Andie’s shoulders and started toward the mansion.
    “Is that your way of flirting with him? He’s a little too old for you, don’t you think?”
    “No flirting involved whatsoever. He’s not exactly my type.”
    A wave of goosebumps covered my skin as the cool air from the house surrounded me. I looked around at the familiar scenery before me. Tan walls that gave the house more of a warm earthy feel, beamed ceilings, and limestone flooring. Despite the bad vibes and the constant fights between my dad, Taylor, and I that took place here, it was still home, even though I was becoming increasingly nervous to see them again.
    “Home sweet home,” Andie said.
    “Yeah, something like that. So, is there any chance I’m going to be running into my father or brother anytime soon?”
    “No one but the housekeeper is here, so you’re safe for now. Although, I was hoping to bump into your brother while I was waiting for you. That babe has got it going on.”
    I scowled, more grossed out than anything. Taylor and Andie? Yeah, I was not so sure I liked that. How awkward would it be to witness my friend and my brother swapping spit? It was a damn good thing he was taken.
    Noticing my disapproving look, she chuckled. “What? Can’t a girl have a little crush?”
    “Hey, he is taken with a baby on the way.”
    “Yes, unfortunately. I guess I will just have to admire from afar.” She folded her arms, stuck her bottom lip out, and pouted.
    I rolled my eyes and smiled. “Come on; let’s go swimming.”
    I grabbed her hand and pulled her in the direction of the backyard.
    “But you don’t have your bathing suit on yet.”
    “I don’t need a bathing suit. We are the only people who are going to be out there, pumpkin.”
    As I ran, I almost collided with Ms. Schultz, who was emerging from the kitchen the same time I was coming her way. Her grey eyes widened as she quickly jumped back out of the way just in time.
    “Welcome home, Ms. Paige!” she called out.
    “Thanks!”
    When my dad moved here, he was forced to find a new housekeeper, and when I say forced, I mean he practically begged Mrs. Belle, the one who raised Taylor and me, to come along. Not only was she important to Taylor and I, but she was obviously important to my father as well, because if you knew Maximus Jacobs, he wasn’t the type to beg for anything. She declined, stating that she couldn’t leave her family behind, even though we had become a part of her family as well.
    As I stepped outside, I began to strip, leaving nothing but my black, silk bra and matching boy shorts on. I dipped my toes in the water of the built in pool, testing the water. Taking a few steps back, I dove in, immediately feeling relaxed and refreshed as I submerged deeper into the cool water. Sucking in a much needed deep breath, I rubbed my eyes, wiping away the blurriness the water had caused, and swam to the edge of the pool.
    I watched as Andie stood behind the outdoor stone bar, shaking the tequila, triple sec, and lemon juice around in the stainless steel cocktail shaker then poured the liquor in the margarita glasses.
    “Where in the hell did you learn to make margaritas?”
    “My older brother owns a bar. I watched him mix up a few cocktails here and there. Margaritas the most, though.”
    “Lucky me.” I grinned.
    She sat down at the edge of the pool and handed me my drink. She held her drink up. “Here’s to a fun summer filled with wild parties, some much needed bonding time with me, and boys— a lot of boys.” She grinned, wiggling her eyebrows.
    “Here, here.”
    We clinked glasses and took a drink. I sighed as the sweet and tangy margarita filled my already watery mouth, washing away the tension of the day. It was so delicious. With every drink, I made sure to savor the