Free Love Resolution (Black Cat Records series) by Michelle Mankin Page B

said interrupting his troubled thoughts.
    “That’s very kind of her. I’m sure we’ll enjoy them. Give her our thanks, would you?”
    “Sure, Boss.” Ray turned his attention back to the road. “Mom also wanted me to mention that she’s praying for you both.”
    “Thanks,” he replied. We’re definitely gonna need it.
    Ray pulled the Mercedes into a restricted area of the airport next to a large metal hanger for Sunset Air. His gaze flicked back at Marcus. “I’ll get your bags unloaded and up to the plane.”
    Marcus nodded, and shifted his body to wake Avery. “We’re here,” he said softly and kissed the side of her mouth.
    “Hmmm,” she replied sleepily, snuggling closer.
    “Ace,” he said more firmly.
    “What?” she grumbled, opening her eyes.
    “It’s time to board the plane,” Marcus informed her gently. Avery was always a little grouchy when she first woke up.
    “Ok.” She rubbed her eyes and stretched her arms over her head.
    Marcus’ gaze dropped to her chest as her shirt stretched tightly across her breasts. He groaned as his body inconveniently hardened in a rush.
    Avery looked at him, the sides of her mouth curving up seductively. She threw a knee over his lap and gathered the front of his blue t-shirt into her hands before molding her soft lips to his.
    Heat spread out in every direction of his body. Forget convenience . This was how it was gonna be the whole damn tour. He was gonna have to take it where he could get it. He subtly increased the pressure between their lips to open her mouth so he could taste her. Greedily, he traced the contours of her mouth, feeling her shortened breath against his lips. He moved his hands up and under her shirt. Suddenly, there was a knock on the back window, startling them both. They broke apart, chests heaving.
    “Dammit!” Marcus cursed, tugging her shirt back into place.
    “Save it for the honeymoon, guys,” Dwight said chuckling. “The pilot’s ready to take off.”
    Marcus opened the door and reached back for Avery’s hand. Her cheeks were flushed as he helped her get out of the car.
    “Holy crap!” she exclaimed, eyes wide. “Is that our plane?”
    “Yeah,” Dwight answered, glancing sidelong at Marcus. “You didn’t tell her Mary leased us a plane for the duration of the tour?”
    “I did.”
    “I just assumed it would be a small one like the one we took to LA.” Avery shook her head. “This one’s as big as a commercial plane.”
    “It’s a 727,” Dwight said proudly. “We’re going in style. Tempest, the rest of the gear, and the roadies will go on tour buses.” He glanced over Avery’s shoulder. “Hey Marcus.”
    “What?” Marcus asked from behind them, a guitar case in each hand.
    “Hurry up. I wanna show Avery around this big ol’ jet airliner.”
    Marcus nodded, following behind as they clanged up the metal stairs to the plane.
    “Welcome aboard,” a uniformed flight attendant greeted them as they stepped into the cabin. She immediately went back to stocking the fridge in the small galley kitchen.
    Turning the corner, they walked into a large lounge decorated in neutral tones and blond wood accents. Mary and Beth were waiting on a cream colored leather sectional.
    “How’s your dad?” Beth asked, concern knitting her brow.
    “He’s stable now,” Avery answered evasively, pulling on her wristband.
    “I’m glad to hear that.”
    Noticing Avery’s uneasiness, Marcus laid his hands on her shoulders and squeezed. “I’m gonna take Avery to the back. Get her to lie down for a while.” He glanced back over his shoulder at Dwight. “Full tour will have to wait, Bro. She’s beat.”
    “No worries,” Dwight replied.
    “Have a great tour.” Beth stood and embraced Avery. “We’ll miss having you around the studio.”
    “Thanks,” Avery offered with a weary smile.
    Marcus slung an arm around her shoulder and guided her to the rear of the plane. He opened a narrow door and gestured for her to