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4
Elizabeth
“That was good, ladies. I’m stuffed,” I say, patting my belly. “Thank you for bringing me out. You were right, I needed this.”
Cat and Lori share a look, an unspoken conversation between them. I hold my breath, praying they aren’t waiting for people to show up at our table to sing happy birthday to me. When they excuse themselves to the bathroom, leaving me to watch their purses, a harsh exhale rushes out. Being alone makes my heart rate spike, and I start getting fidgety again.
I pull out my phone as a distraction, not surprised to see there are no emails or Facebook notifications waiting for me. I’ve alienated most of my friends over the past couple of years by ignoring their calls and invitations.
Someone joins me in the booth, but I keep my head bent, eyes focused on my phone.
“So, are you going to take me home now?” I ask, scrolling through Twitter.
My gaze lifts at the lack of response, finding an unfamiliar face. I gasp as my heart jumps into my throat.
“I’m ready when you are, beautiful.” The man turns his smile up a notch, revealing a set of perfect white teeth.
My stomach flips as his eyes roam over me, turning my confusion into anger. Partially toward myself for taking the extra time to fix my hair and makeup. The way he’s looking at me isn’t what I’m upset about. I’m furious with the way my entire body is responding to this stranger’s stare.
“I didn’t think it would be this easy, but I’ll take it.” He scratches at the beard on his jaw, relaxing into the booth as if we’re old friends catching up.
Our eyes lock, and I find myself getting lost in his for a moment. The beautiful gray coloring makes them appear as if they are shimmering, reminding me of the sun peeking through on a cloudy day.
“You won’t be getting anything from me. I can guarantee you that, buddy,” I huff, straightening my back and crossing my arms. “If you’re looking for easy, you’ve come to the wrong table.”
My eyes narrow as I wait for him to retreat. He surprises me again by laughing. My forehead creases as I study him. Before I know it, his genuine laugh has my lips curving into a smile.
“Hey, I was following your lead. You’re the one who asked me to take you home. I came over here for some conversation.” His voice is smooth as silk as he leans into the table, resting his elbows on it. “I’m Brenden.”
He smirks, waiting for my response. But I offer none.
“And you are?” he tries, chuckling.
“Not interested.” I point to the wedding band on my ring finger. “Now, why don’t you go bother someone else? I’m sure there are plenty of single women in here who would love to have your attention.”
“Wait…was that a compliment?” He gives me the same playful smile from a moment ago, and I bite the inside of my cheek to keep myself from smiling back this time. “Are you trying to say you find me attractive?”
“Please,” I scoff, looking away to hide my real thoughts on the subject.
Attractive isn’t the word. The man is gorgeous. His tan skin, dark hair, and muscular frame should come with a warning.
I run my clammy hands down the material of my jeans, regaining my composure. “What part of not interested did you not understand?”
Our gazes meet, and his eyes twinkle with delight, the corners of his mouth turning up in a way that makes my heart flutter.
I need him to leave. Like, right now. All his inappropriate flirting has my heart working overtime and my stomach doing somersaults.
“Move on.” My voice is almost pleading, my hands finding their way to my flushed cheeks.
“I didn’t hear you deny being attracted to me.”
“Oh. My. God!” I shout, throwing my hands up.
“Lizzy,” Cat says as they approach the table, “who’s your friend?”
A groan of irritation escapes as I plant my forehead into the palm of my hand. I didn’t want them to witness this, and I certainly didn’t want him to have my name.
With a sigh, I lift my head to look at him. A triumphant smile lights his face as he sits back against the booth again.
