Thwack!

The guest-room door flew wide, and Lucio immediately recognized the cavalry as the other two bridesmaids in the wedding party, an older, mannish woman named Beatrice Latimer, and a little dark-haired cutie named Roxanne Bloom. Though he would have preferred it the other way around, Roxanne was in a bulky bathrobe and Bea was in a camisole and panties.

What the fuck? Bea said, balling her fists at her sides.

Allow me to introduce myself. Lucio rose from the bed and headed toward the neutral center of the room. I am Lucio Montevez, but those who know me well call me Lucky. The women did not seem impressed. Your friend fainted on the walkway outside, and I brought her here to recover.

We don't care if you're the pope! Roxanne's eyes flew wide. We heard Ginger scream and we're calling the police!

Lucio tried not to laugh. There is no need, I assure you.

Really? Bea took a step toward him, and by the looks of the woman's defined quadriceps, she meant business. Because it sure looks like you just assaulted her. Bea pointed at Ginger. Her dress is open. She looks unraveled. That scream was the real deal. Your luck has just run out, dude.

Wait. It was Ginger. She fumbled with the dress, clutching it to her chest as she reached around her back to find the open zipper. Then she blinked, quickly shook her head, and touched her lips. Her eyes shot toward him. I couldn't breathe. I saw you step out from behind the roses, then everything went black. Ginger's jaw slackened. Her hand fell to her side. And she stared at him in shock.

Ginger's friend had been rightthe woman was unraveled. Lucio certainly hadn't meant to unnerve her to this degree. It was only a kiss.

You said you were waiting for me, Ginger whispered, horror in her eyes.