It was a small group at the table. Only four of them, and all were longtime friends. Other members of the crew lingered in the camp, but only their small group gathered at the table. They’d worked on the Setona together for years. With them, she could be at ease and perhaps get her mind off one very annoying man. Even if she couldn’t, she enjoyed the relaxing chat and companionship. Frustration simmered through her whenever she thought of Jagger. After that kiss in the clearing, she’d thought that there might be something between them. Over the last few days, he’d given her no reason to believe had any interest in her. Since Keegan had been attacked, he’d been watchful, but it wasn’t as a potential lover. Nor was it as if he suspected she was responsible for the assault. No, his gaze had seemed protective, almost brotherly. She wanted him. Even thinking about him was enough to start a slow burn of desire. Part of her wanted to walk over to him and ask him straight out if he wanted her or if he simply thought to be nice to someone who’d been hurt.
