The Tycoon's Seductive Revenge by Kristi Avalon Page B

martini?” the judge suggested.
    “Perfect.” She laughed, her head thrown back to reveal the lovely arc of her neck.
    Carter fought the urge to kiss up and down its swan-like curve, right there in front of everyone. And leave marks from his five-o’clock shadow that told them she was already taken.
    “I’ll have another,” Carter told James.
    The only reason Avery had his position as judge was because, like the mayor and councilman, he possessed old money that came with old favors. None of them earned it or did a damn thing to deserve it. Carter tasted disgust at the back of his throat.
    “Make it neat,” Carter told James, who poured his drink without ice.
    Avery slid closer to Ellie and cupped her elbow. “We never see you at the Tavern Inn beside the courthouse. Lovely girl like you needs to get out more.”
    “Is that an invitation?” she asked.
    “It is now.” He was feeding out of her hand.
    Ellie kept him guessing. “I’ll have to see when I’m available.”
    Avery grinned like a gambler who’d hit the jackpot. “I’ll reserve a table for this Saturday.”
    Rolling his eyes, Carter turned his back to them. He shrugged in the stiff fabric of his suit that felt unaccountably tight against his shoulders.
    “Another,” he flagged James.
    “Where’s our invitation?” Councilman Ward quipped on behalf of himself and the mayor.
    “Sorry, boys. She’s mine this Saturday. You’ll have to get in line.” From there, they each jockeyed for position to land a spot on her calendar.
    Pathetic . Carter removed his suit jacket and tossed it on the bar. None of them cared to get to know her. They just wanted a night between her thighs.
    They’ll have to get past me first .
    A moment later Russert Montgomery entered, drawing everyone’s attention. He pasted a smile on his face. “My good friends. Welcome to an evening at the Montgomery Hotel. Let us know how we can accommodate you in any way.”
    Judge Avery wiggled his eyebrows at Ellie. Carter’s hands curled into fists.
    “As your hosts, Eleanor and I open our home and our hearts to you. All we want in return is for you to enjoy yourselves.”
    If Russert were anymore plastic he’d melt under the chandeliers. However, this was the one man Carter counted on his side. “James, please pour our host a glass of the finest scotch in the house. On my bill.”
    “Indeed, sir.” James nodded his approval at Carter’s gesture.
    The other three men looked disgruntled they hadn’t thought of it. Anyone can hit on a beautiful woman, but those who played to win always bet on the house.
    Then Andre signaled that dinner was ready. Carter acknowledged the cue. He cleared his throat. “Gentlemen, and lady, my chef has prepared a memorable dinner. When everyone has taken their seats he’ll bring out the first course.”
    The men gathered around the large circular dining table set for the occasion. Three of the four guests of honor shuffled their seats hoping Ellie would sit by them. Carter didn’t bother. He chose his chair. Ellie hurried to snag the seat beside him. Carter’s pleasure soured when Marquell took the chair directly across from him.
    “Regarding your chef,” remarked the mayor, “I’ve heard great things about his cuisine.”
    Carter dipped his chin in a humble nod, well-acquainted with Andre’s expertise. “I only hire the best.”
    “I’m looking forward to it,” Ellie said. “This will be a new experience.”
    Pulling out her chair, Carter waited for her sit down. Then he seated himself.
    The mayor directed the conversation to Ellie. “This is your hotel. Are you saying you’ve never had the privilege of this chef’s cuisine?”
    “Special circumstances.” She winked at the mayor.
    Every man at the table beamed as though this special occasion was for his benefit.
    “We’re pleased to join you,” said Councilman Ward, lifting his glass. “Here’s to fine food and excellent company.”
    They all raised their glasses to his