"Well I'm glad he was able to welcome you to the club," I laughed. That's a long time to fake it.
She sipped her wine. "Me too. So then after that, we just hung out together, ordered pizza, watched movies. Until it was bed time."
"And I take it you didn't just go to sleep, did you?" I grinned.
"No, we did not do much sleeping at all. And it was amazing." Her eyes danced as she remembered.
Aw, I was so happy for her. I loved hearing her story. She was even helping me out of my own pity party.
"That's so exciting!" I squealed, grabbing her hands.
"I know. And we're going to see each other tonight. He had to go back to work for a bit, but then he wants me to come over after."
"So two sleepless nights in a row," I teased.
She giggled. "I hope so."
She finished up the last of her wine.
"Well, I'd better get going. I want to stop home before going to his place."
"Alright, sweetie. Have fun," I winked at her.
"Oh I plan on it," she smiled as she stood up to head out the door.
I couldn't help my giant smile on my face. I really was so happy for her. I stepped in the back office for a second so I could talk to Johnny about it. To my surprise, the office was empty. Maybe he's in the bathroom, I thought. I walked back out to the bar, my heart sinking to the floor as I realized who was now seated in a stool: Todd.
Chapter 12
Decision time. How do I handle this? Do I let him know I'm pissed off? No. Bad idea. I should play it cool. I gave you my number? Oh that's right, I did! We would then have a good laugh about it. What did I have to worry about? Obviously he's here, seeking me out.
I forced a smile on my face. "Hey, what are you doing here?" I casually set a cocktail napkin in front of him. Business as usual. I willed myself to have a strong game face.
He rubbed his hands together, his elbows resting on the bar. "I wanted a drink." His lips curled into a sly grin. My eyes landed on that dimple. He had a good game face too, unfortunately.
Obviously he wanted more than just a drink. He wouldn't just show up at the bar where he knows I work at, especially after what we just did two nights ago. But I'll play along. "Ok, what can I get for you?"
"Sam Adams draught," he replied coolly.
I nodded quickly and stepped over to the tap. He was giving nothing away. Was he seriously just here for a drink? Would this be his new after work spot too, like Ben? He did look striking in his dress shirt and tie. But I liked that his hair was still slightly messy. Wait, stop it! Just focus on getting the beer.
I brought the drink to him, setting it on the napkin. "Anything else?" I asked. I suddenly was wishing we were busier. There was only one other person at the bar; I wouldn't have a good hiding spot.
He shifted on his stool. "Yeah, I guess there's just one other thing," he said.
My heart stopped for a second.
"What's that?" Ugh, my voice was way too high.
He slowly reached into his pocket, bringing out his phone, never taking his eyes off me. "I'm just curious why you would give me a fake number?"
He held the screen open toward me. It showed a text conversation. He had sent, "Hey Shannon, I had a great time last night. Are you free tonight at all?"
The person on the other end had responded, "Sorry dude, she gave you a fake number."
My eyes widened. I grabbed the phone from him, looking at the number. I realized I had given him the fake number I always gave out if a guy asked for my number. Two of the digits were switched. I must have done it out of habit.
"Oh my god. That was an accident!" I cried. I was mortified. But I suddenly felt excitement building, letting the words of his text sink in. He had wanted to see me. And he'd had a great time.
"An accident?" he asked, picking up his beer.
I clasped my forehead, cringing. "Yes, two of the numbers are switched. My number ends with four two, not two four."
His face visibly relaxed. "So you didn't wake up, take off without saying goodbye, and give me a fake number?"
Oh my god, is that what he thought I did? "No, I just always wake up early and I didn't want to disturb you. I wanted to give you my number, but apparently I failed at that. I'm sorry." I started to laugh, the realization of everything setting in. I had gotten myself so worked up for nothing. And it seemed he had as well? I hadn't seen that coming, given his past reputation.
"I wouldn't have minded if you woke me. To be honest, I was a little pissed when I woke up, finding the bed empty next to me." His eyebrow raised slightly as he spoke.
That was definitely news to me. I searched for my words. "Really?"
"Really."
"I'm sorry, I honestly didn't mean for that," I said quietly. I had a hard time meeting his eyes.
"Well, I owe Lacey an apology because of it."
I glanced up. "What does that mean?"
He sighed. "Well, before I even looked at my phone, when I thought you had just up and left, I was in a bit of a sour mood. And I may have taken it out on her."
She hadn't mentioned anything when she was here. "What happened?"
I felt my muscles relax as the conversation continued. I hadn't realized I had been so stiff.
"I was eating breakfast out in the living room when she came out. And I made a dickhead comment, asking if she made sure Ben called out her name instead of Marissa's." He quickly gulped his beer, peering up at me.
I leaned my body up against the bar. "Are you serious? That's so mean!"
He groaned. "I know, I know. I was just feeling shitty, thinking about you, and again, I took it out on her. I know I shouldn't have. I definitely owe her an apology."
I had made that much of an impact on him? My stomach seemed to do a flip inside. I was feeling a crazy combination of nervous and excited.
"Well if it's any consolation, she and Ben were just here and they are 'officially' dating," I said, using air quotes.
His face lit up. "Really? Good for them. That's awesome."
"I know, right?"
We smiled at each other, both unsure of what to say.
"So," he said, clearing his throat and breaking the tension. "You could imagine my surprise when I finally looked at my phone, and saw your number in there."
"Yeah, I uh, wanted you to have it. You know, if you wanted it." I suddenly felt shy. I didn't do this. Ever. I realized my fingers were gripping the edge of the bar.
"So you can imagine the even bigger surprise when I got that response back. I thought, why would she go out of her way to give me a fake number? Something about it didn't seem right. It bugged me all day, so that's why I decided to stop in here and ask you." He chugged the last of his beer, setting down the empty glass.
I couldn't believe this was happening. "I'm sorry there was so much confusion. I feel like an idiot."
His hand reached for mine, resting warmly on top. My breathing hitched. "No, don't. I just, felt something the other night. Am I wrong? Was there something there between us? Besides the obvious of course," he grinned.
His words made me blush. I had really enjoyed "the obvious."
"Um, besides the obvious, yeah. I definitely felt it too." I couldn't believe I was saying those words out loud. At least he had said it first.
What was going on here? Open and honest communication? No games?
"So. What now?" he asked.
Good question. I didn't exactly know the answer. I wasn't quite ready to jump back in to anything yet. I had spiraled out of control just at the thought of him not calling. I was in no position to enter a full blown relationship. But that didn't mean I couldn't get to know him better. Maybe.
"What now?" I sighed.
"How about dinner?"
"Dinner," I repeated.
"Yes, where people eat food in the evening," he joked, his blue eyes dancing.
"Oh yes, dinner!" I laughed. "We could have dinner."
"When?" he asked, rubbing his chin.
&
nbsp; "Well, I'm here til ten tonight. But I'm off tomorrow," I answered. I realized my heart was pounding.
"Tomorrow is good," he smiled. "I'll pick you up at seven?"
"Seven." I sounded like a parrot. "Seven is perfect."
"I'm looking forward to it," he whispered, his eyes darkening. I recognized that look. I liked that look.
I bit my lip, grinning. I hoped dinner would then lead to activities similar to the other night.
"So now that that's all straightened out, I should probably head home. How much for the beer?" he asked.
I shook my head, trying to switch gears. "Oh, um, four dollars," I replied.
He handed me a twenty from his wallet.
"I'll be right back," I said, stepping toward the register.
"No it's ok, keep it," he said, raising up from his stool. His whole body now came into view. He looked good all dressed up. My mind drifted to him without clothes. That was even better.
"But your beer was only four dollars," I argued.
"It's fine. Keep it."
I scoffed. "No! That's too much."
"Hey, it's the least you could do after what you put me through," he grinned.
His eyes twinkled. How could I argue with that smile?
"Ok, fine," I conceded.
"Good. So now that I have your real number, I'll get your address and everything tomorrow. See you at seven?"
"See you then." I could barely get the words out.
With that, he turned and headed toward the exit. Before walking out the door, he looked back at me, and gave me a wink.
I stood, staring blankly at the door with a big stupid grin on my face.
"Who was that?"
I jumped about a mile high. How long had Johnny been standing there?
"Oh my god, you scared me!" I laughed.
"I'm sorry. Didn't mean to do that," he grinned. "So who was that?"
I stumbled over my words, still in shock over everything that had just happened. "A new friend. His name is Todd. I met him through Ben." With each sentence, I gained more of my composure.
"Ah, I see," he responded, nodding his head.
He knew what I meant by "friend," but we were not about to have that conversation.
"And speaking of Ben, how about him and Lacey! How sweet!" I cried. Excellent deflection.
"We did it," he said, smiling. His lifted his hand in the air. I met it, giving him a high five.
I was pretty worthless the rest of the night. I couldn't concentrate on anything but my date tomorrow. I was going on a date. Holy shit. I wanted to text Lacey, but I knew she would be... busy.
When I got home, I decided on the next best thing. I called my sister.
"Hey, Shan, how are you? I feel like I haven't talked to you in forever," she answered.
She was right. It had been a while since we'd talked. I sent my obligatory "Don't worry, I'm still alive" texts, but we hadn't really talked recently. It had a lot to do with the fact that I didn't think she'd approve of my lifestyle I was living. But now I had some news I knew she'd be happy about.
"I'm good, actually. How are you?" I curled up on my couch with the phone.
"Good, just been busy," she replied. I could hear a slight excitement in her voice.
"Oh yeah, with what?"
She paused briefly, then responded, "Having a lot of sex."
I laughed out loud. "Well that's nice. Thank you for that information."
She giggled. "Well all that hard work has paid off, because... I'm pregnant."
I felt my mouth fall open. I knew they had been trying for almost a whole year. They had even talked about fertility treatments.
"Oh my god, really? Carrie, that's amazing! How far along are you?"
I pictured her bright smiling face. "About two months now. I actually just went to the doctor today. It's funny you called, I was going to call you anyway to tell you."
"I just had a feeling," I smiled. I decided not to even mention Todd. Me going on a date with a guy I had already slept with paled in comparison to her news. "So when is your due date?"
"Officially, it's April third. It just seems so far away!"
"That's so exciting," I squealed. "Are you going to find out if it's a boy or girl?"
She laughed. "You know me. I'm such a planner. I have to know."
Yes she was. I had decided that if I ever had kids, I would want to be surprised. "Perfect. I can't wait to buy little outfits!"
"Me too," she smiled, exhaling deeply. "So that's my news, what's been going on with you? How are you doing, really?" She emphasized the word, really, as if I had been lying when I told her I was good before. As if I couldn't possibly be doing well.
I paused, trying not to let her tone get to me. I knew her words were well intentioned, but she couldn't help but come across as slightly judgmental. "Really, I'm good. Just been working a lot."
"Meet anybody?"
How did she know? And why did my happiness rely on finding someone? "Maybe, I don't know, we'll see."
"Really?" she asked, the surprise not escaping her voice. "That's the most I've heard you say about a guy since you left."
I had selectively told her about some of the guys I had "met." If she only knew how many of them there really had been.
"Well we just met through friends, and we're going on a date tomorrow night." I couldn't help my smile. It really felt good talking about it. I was honestly excited.
"I have to say, that sounds promising."
Ok, I'd had enough of the subtle criticism of my life. "Well thanks. I'll keep you posted. Like I said, we'll see. But I'd better let you go. Congratulations to you and Greg. I love you."
"Thanks, love you too. Talk to you later."
"Bye." I hung up and tossed my phone on the table.
I really did love my sister, but sometimes I was in such a foul mood after talking to her.
I flipped on the TV, settling on a movie on Lifetime. I eventually dozed off with thoughts of tomorrow's events dancing in my brain.
Chapter 13
I stood naked, staring at my closet full of clothes, but feeling like I had nothing to wear. The clock on the nightstand read six thirty-seven. I needed to get moving. Thankfully, I had already done my hair and makeup, so all I needed to do was settle on an outfit. But I didn't want to settle, that was the problem. I should've gone shopping today, I thought.
Ok, enough. I marched to my kitchen, poured some tequila in a glass, and slammed a shot. I had told myself I wouldn't do that, but I needed to relax. I quickly washed out the glass and hid the evidence of my drinking. I walked determinedly back to my closet. Come on, you can do this. Just go with what you know makes you look and feel good. Pink always worked for me. It seemed to make my blue eyes pop. I spotted a strapless pink dress toward the end of the row. That could work.
I pulled the hanger of the rod, holding the dress up over me as I looked in the mirror. Yes, this and some wedge heels. Now, time to decide on underwear. That was just as important if not more important than the dress. I pulled open my dresser drawer, eyeing the selection. I could go panty-less, but I didn't want him to think I was too easy. I laughed at myself; we had already slept together. Obviously I was easy.
Should I continue the pink theme? Or mix it up? Black always seemed to be a hit. I grabbed a matching pair of black lace panties and bra, slipping them on. I had just stepped into my dress and pulled up the back zipper when I heard the buzzer. My heart skipped a beat. I half debated taking another shot, but I didn't want to keep him waiting. I slipped on my shoes and ran to the intercom.
"Who is it?" I asked playfully.
"Your knight in shining armor."
I grinned. "Oh perfect. I've been expecting you. Come in." I pressed the button, unlocking the lobby door. A few moments later, I heard a soft knocking at my door. I took a deep breath, opening it.
There he stood, holding a single, giant hot pink daisy, wearing a heartwarming smile. My eyes ran over his face, first taking in hi
s deep blue eyes, then his cheek bones, down to his pink lips. Seriously, how were cheek bones sexy? And that damn dimple. It was the one flash of adorable in a sea of sexiness.
"For you," he said, handing me the flower.
"Thank you," I smiled, taking it from him. "That is so sweet. Come in."
We walked the few steps into the kitchen, and I reached under the sink for a vase. I pulled one out, filling it with water, and placed the daisy in.
"I just saw it, and it made me think of you. It just seemed so bright and pretty." He was rubbing the back of his neck. Was he nervous?
I smiled, wanting to try to help him relax. "Thank you."
"You're very welcome," he grinned.
I stood, leaning back against the counter. An electricity hung in the air as we eyed each other. He was wearing a black button up shirt and dark jeans. And he smelled really good. I felt my breathing quicken.
"So, where are we going tonight?" I asked, trying to get a handle on the situation.
"Oh, I thought we could check out a little Mexican place someone recommended to me. Somberitos. Have you heard of it?" he grinned.
I had been craving that since my tequila binge the other night. "Yeah, I've heard it's pretty good," I laughed.
"Good. The only problem is, I couldn't get a reservation until eight."
I was sure we wouldn't need reservations, especially on a Tuesday night, but I played along. "Not until eight? And it's now, what, seven?"
"Seven oh two," he responded.
He took a step closer to me as I pressed my back against the counter. His gaze was scorching.
"So what could we possibly do for an hour?" I asked, looking up innocently at him. "Or, fifty-eight minutes, rather."
He stepped even closer until he was directly in front of me, our hips an inch apart. His hands rested on my sides as his eyes locked with mine. I felt my groin tingling. I watched his lips move as he said, "I have an idea."
He swiftly picked me up, placing me on the counter. I opened my legs so he could position himself between them. His arms wrapped around my back as his mouth came to my neck. He planted slow, soft sweet kisses down the right side, then across, and up my left side of my neck. I moaned softly, running my hands up the muscles of his arms. I wanted his mouth on mine.
Finally, You (The Finally Book Duo 2) Page 11
