Who Gets the Friends? by Tim Smith Read Free Book Online Page A

him a wink. “Guess I’ll have to workout a little harder next week, huh?”
    Tom chuckled. “I guess.”
    She slung an arm over his shoulder. “Unless you help me work it off later.”
    He looked into her eyes. Daddy always warned me about women like this . “You aren’t driving tonight, are you?”
    She shook her head. “Rashida’s the designated driver.” She patted his chest. “Don’t worry about me.”
    They rejoined her friends, but after Karly downed both Jello shots, she immediately left to talk with another guy. Tom sipped his drink and felt nervous.
    He indicated the people jamming the room. “Quite a party. What’s the occasion?”
    “Just a pre-holiday bash,” Rashida answered. “Karly told me you two work together.”
    “That’s right. What do you do?”
    “I’m a massage therapist.”
    “Really. I’ve never met one of those before.”
    Her look turned sultry. “I can do wonderful things with a body. Just put yourself in my hands and you’ll be amazed at how good you’ll feel.”
    Tom took another sip. Man, if you don’t work this, you’re a bigger asshole than I thought . “I’d like to take you up on that sometime.”
    She rested her hand on his forearm. “I’m sure I could fit you in. I understand you were recently set free.”
    Tom laughed. “I hadn’t thought of it that way, but yes.” He hesitated. “Are you unattached at the moment?”
    “Mm-hmm, and I plan on staying that way for a while.”
    “Why?”
    “Relationships tend to complicate your life and I’m happy with the way things are.” She took a swallow of her soda. “I don’t want to burst your bubble, but I think there’s something I should tell you.”
    “What’s that?”
    “I know Karly invited you, but she has the hots for that cowboy over there.”
    Tom looked at Karly hanging all over a muscular guy in jeans, a denim shirt and boots.
    “Thanks for setting me straight.”
    “I just didn’t want you to get your hopes up.”
    “I didn’t have any expectations so no harm done.”
    She smiled. “Good.”
    He heard the music change to a slow tempo dance number. “Would you like to dance?”
    “I’d love to.”
    They found a clearing and assumed a light embrace. Tom guided Rashida through some easy steps and was surprised when she rested her head on his chest. He moved his hand to her shoulder and inhaled her scent. Pleasing but not overbearing.
    “What’s that cologne you’re wearing?” she asked.
    “Tuscany.”
    “Mmm, I like it. It suits you.”
    “Thank you. So does yours.”
    She nestled a little closer and ran her hand along his back. Tom enjoyed holding someone soft in his arms, someone who obviously wanted to be there.
    When the music stopped, Rashida peered into his eyes. “Mind if I ask you something?”
    “Of course not.”
    She ran her fingertips along his cheek. “How do you feel about black women?”
    “Black women in general or any one in particular?”
    “In general.”
    He picked up on the look in her eye and her tone of voice. “I’m an equal opportunity lover.”
    Her face brightened a bit. “I’m so glad to hear that.” She sighed. “It’s getting a little stuffy in here. Mind stepping outside for some air?”
    “Lead the way.”
    Rashida grabbed her coat and purse, then led Tom toward the door. Karly stopped them.
    “Hey, what are you doing with my Marathon Man?” she teased.
    Rashida winked. “Don’t worry, I’ll have him back before bedtime.”
    They continued on their way. Am I dreaming this?
    When they were outside Rashida zipped up her jacket. “Have you ever been to a masseuse?”
    “Yeah, I have. I liked it. Very relaxing.”
    She turned him around, then placed her hands on his shoulders, kneading his muscles. Damn, that feels good.
    “You have broad shoulders,” she commented, “but you’re very tense.”
    “Guess it’s because I’m out of practice when it comes to socializing and meeting new people.”
    She continued massaging him.