Dare to Tease: A Dare Nation Novella, Carly Phillips [well read books TXT] 📗

my house. He came by to check on me and brought medical supplies to bandage my palms.”

Although he’d wrapped her hands again, before he’d left, he’d shown her the large bandages she’d have an easier time applying on her own, and she’d put the less obvious dressing on her hands today. At night he’d instructed her to let the wounds breathe and leave them uncovered.

“He asked me to be his plus-one this weekend at a family wedding, and after I agreed, we kissed. Again.”

Macy let out a low whistle. “A family wedding? Isn’t that like making a serious statement or something?”

She shook her head. “No. In this case it’s more like he’s letting his family know he’s living his own life and to back off, don’t matchmake or pressure him to come home in any way.”

“Aah. And what does his invitation say to you?” Macy asked. “Or better yet, what does your agreement say to him? Is this a serious thing?” Macy’s question was a valid one.

Bri’s feelings about dating and being used or hurt hadn’t changed, but she couldn’t deny the flutters in her stomach when she so much as thought about Hudson, either. She also understood he needed her as a buffer with his family, but she knew that going in, which made the situation understandable, and there were no feelings of being exploited for her connections or used in any way. She liked the idea of helping him out and making this weekend easier for him.

“Well,” Bri said, picking up a sleek long black dress. “I don’t know Hudson’s views on relationships, but I know mine. And this is a weekend away with a sexy man and the chance to explore things without all my brothers butting in.” She shrugged. “That’s about as far as I’ve thought things through. In other words, we’re going to a wedding, not getting married. It’s all good.”

Macy smiled. “Well, you’re excited, and that’s enough for me. Now let’s pick a dress.”

They sorted through the possibilities and chose some for Bri to try on. There was one large fitting room in the back, and Macy came in with her, talking as Bri tried on one gown after another.

“Do your brothers know about your trip this weekend?” she asked.

“Can you zip me?” Bri turned, lifting her hair so Macy could pull up the zipper in the back. “I certainly haven’t told any of them,” she said, picking up the discussion where they’d left off. “I’m not hiding it, but I don’t need to either get into an argument about my personal life or have them give Hudson a hard time because he’s doing whatever with their sister.” She made a face that expressed what she thought of their interference.

“You do realize Braden is the one who gives Hudson the weekend off from the team? And they work together at the clinic, so he’ll know Hudson is away. And he’ll realize you’re gone, too, and put two and two together.”

Bri rolled her eyes. “Whatever. He’ll get over himself. We’re all adults, and when this thing, whatever it is, with Hudson ends, we can all stay friends.”

She ignored the twinge in her stomach at the thought, be it of things ending, which was silly when they’d barely begun, or just being Hudson’s friend. She shook her head, knowing she was being ridiculous. They were friends before they’d kissed, and they’d be friends after they slept together. Case closed.

“I love that dress on you!” Macy exclaimed.

Bri glanced in the full-length mirror, taking in the rose-gold, embellished, lace-embroidered, illusion gown with a low vee in the front that was flattering yet classy. The lace hugged her curves on top but fluttered beautifully at the bottom.

“Oh, look! There’s a matching scarf to drape over your shoulders.” Macy picked up the piece that had fallen to the floor and handed it to her.

“I love this,” Bri said, smoothing her hand over her hip.

She’d make a statement in this gown while keeping in style and not give Hudson’s parents anything to complain about. Other than her lack of pedigree, she thought wryly.

Macy clapped her hands. “Yay! Perfect choice. Now we go shopping for shoes and a small purse?”

Bri nodded. “Just as soon as I pay.”

She’d seen the price on this dress, and by the time she bought the shoes and bag, she’d have a hefty credit card statement next month. Even with her generous salary, this was a big hit.

She glanced in the mirror one more time. Her dark hair and tanned skin provided the perfect contrast to the lighter-colored gown. If Hudson’s chocolate eyes darkened at the sight of her in this dress, the money would be well spent.

* * * *

Hudson had his suitcase open on the bed, his tuxedo hanging on the door waiting to be placed inside the garment bag. He’d actually had to buy a tuxedo for the wedding because his clothing consisted of khaki shorts and collared T-shirts from his time in Brazil. When he’d moved to Florida, he’d purchased pants for clinic and stadium work. Not a formal or overly dressy item could be found in his closet, and though his mother would be horrified, Hudson liked it that way.

He added his Dopp kit to the suitcase, zipped it up, and rolled the bag near the door. He was about to turn around and grab his tuxedo when a knock sounded.

He swung open his door to find Braden standing outside. “Hey, come on in.”

Braden strode inside, his gaze going to the carry-on. “Ready to go?”

“As ready as I’ll ever be to deal with the family.”

Braden made himself comfortable, dropping onto the leather couch Hudson had splurged on. “Are you looking forward to the wedding at least? I know you haven’t seen Serena in a while, and you two are close.”

Joining him, Hudson sat down on the opposite end of the sofa. “That’s the one thing I’m excited for. She deserves to be happy.”

Braden nodded. “Where are you staying?”

This was starting to feel like