Heat Read Online Free Page A

So she shook his hand and tried not to wonder if he was her sister’s lover.
    “Max is going to show you around the place.”
    “What!” Mallory said, and then lowered the volume when they both winced. “I mean, I’m not here for the sex. That is, I’m not a prude,” she said to Max.
    “Yes, she is.” Colleen laid her hand on Max’s bulging bicep and gave him a knowing look.
    “I am not.” Mallory refused to stamp her foot, so she glared daggers at her sister and her smug expression.
    “Say ‘dildo.’ ”
    “What?” Mallory adjusted her tone again. “Why would I need to say that?”
    “See,” Colleen said. “She can’t do it.”
    “Yes, I can. I’m just choosing not to.” Mallory considered smacking Colleen upside her perfectly styled head.
    “Do you even hear what you sound like?”
    “Ladies,” Max said, stepping between them. He had a voice that sounded like a Harley’s engine and her insides quivered at the bass. “This isn’t necessary.”
    “I can say it,” Mallory spat, but she shrank back at the full force of Max’s hazel eyes. He smelled good, too. Part of her wanted to bury her nose in his T-shirt and breathe him in. Too bad he probably thought she was an idiot the way she was acting. When he turned away to look at Colleen, Mallory mouthed “dildo” at her sister.
    “Doesn’t count,” Colleen said. “Anyway, before the flying nun over here had a conniption, I was going to tell her that only VIP members of Couture can access the special classes. Nonmembers or prospective members are only allowed on the main levels. To them, we are exactly what our marketing says we are: a resort retreat for the fashion conscious. We also give kick-ass parties on the weekend that everyone is invited to. So fortunately, you’ll get to mingle. Your cover story …”
    “I need a cover story? I’m your sister.”
    “Yes, but we don’t want word of that getting out in case David has friends in highplaces.”
    “I didn’t think of that.” Mallory bit her lip.
    “You’re a prospective member enjoying your time with us. In the meantime, Max is going to give you some lessons.”
    Mallory was trying not to shriek again, so she cleared her throat instead. “What type of lessons are we talking about?”
    “Haven’t you been paying attention?” Colleen said. “He teaches martial arts.”
    Mallory’s cheeks scorched her hands when she covered her face. When she peeked out, the first thing she saw was Max’s knowing smile.
    “You’re not going to be a black belt anytime soon, but hopefully, you’ll pick up enough moves to feel a little more confident if David gets you alone,” Colleen said.
    “Thanks,” Mallory said. “Really, this means so much. Do you think he’ll track me here?”
    “You’re safe here. Even if David does pull his head out of his ass, he’s never getting close to this place. My guards have orders to detain him and call the cops. Now, stop worrying and have some fun.” Colleen patted Max’s chest. “I’ll leave you in Max’s capable hands.”
    Mallory shot her sister a dirty look as Colleen winked at her and let herself out.
    “So, um, this is awkward,” Mallory said.
    “Come on, let’s go for a walk. Colleen tells me you’re a doctor—what do you specialize in?” Max gave her an easy smile that took the starch out of her spine.
    Mallory was glad to scoot out of the room, away from the flavored condoms. Did they really taste like grape? Rubber grape? David wasn’t very adventurous in the bedroom. His idea of a wild time was her on top. He felt threatened every time she tried to bring up something new, so after a while she just stopped trying. Couture seemed to be all about trying new things and taking chances. Maybe she was in the right place at the right time for once in her life? She realized Max was patiently waiting for an answer and she turned her mind firmly back to her career.
    “Yes, I work in the ER.”
    “That’s got to be