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I look around the room, and I notice Sam is waiting where we left him. I guess he’s wondering if I’ll bring her back or let her go to him.
He can get lost, because I’m not doing either.
She and Gloria finish their conversation, and when she starts to return, I catch her arm. “Do you know where Edward is?”
The burn in my chest has nothing to do with worrying about a twelve-year-old boy. Edward would be fine in Newport if he were six. He’s simply the first thing my caveman mind grabs in its attempt to keep her from going back to Sam.
“He was in the kitchen with Thomas last I checked.” Her eyes blink wider. “Did something happen?”
“No.” My tone is flat. “But Thomas is watching the game.”
“You don’t think he’s—” She starts when her brother walks up to where we’re standing.
Her shoulders drop, and the relief that floods her features almost makes me feel guilty. Until I see Sam watching her.
“I’d like to go.” Edward’s voice is tense, and if I had to guess, I’d think he’s reached his limit on noise and celebration for the night.
“I’m ready, too. I have to work tomorrow.” Rachel blinks around the room. “I need to pay my bill?—”
“I’ll take care of it.” My hand is on her shoulder again, and my eyes remain above her neck.
She shakes her head. “I can’t let you pay for us.”
“What did you have? The Dare Dish is free, and you had what? One beer?”
She tilts the longneck in her hand, pressing her lips together. “I had two.”
“I’m sure we won’t miss two beers, and there’s food at the house if you want to eat something.” I’m not sure how hypoglycemia works, but there’s sugar in beer. She should be okay. “I’ll walk you back.”
“Okay.” Her shoulders drop as she relents.
I pause to say goodnight to Sandra and Gloria. I motion in Edward’s direction, and the two of them understand right away. This type of party is not ideal for anyone with sensitivity issues.
Edward’s body is tense as we walk the short distance from the restaurant on the bay to my family’s sprawling home on the bluff. The farther we go, the more he relaxes.
“I’m sorry.” Rachel’s voice is gentle. “You know, you can always leave if it’s too much—I’ll understand.”
He nods, watching his feet as he walks. “I didn’t want you to worry.”
“Oh…” It’s laced with guilt, and I don’t know why I take that as my cue to jump in.
“I’m glad you were there to meet Gloria and Sandra. They’re not always at the stables when I get there. It’s usually pretty early.”
He nods. “I’ve heard you. I’m always awake at that time.”
“In that case, you can ride with me.”
We reach the house, and I lead them to the kitchen. “If you’re hungry, we’ve got plenty of leftovers or sandwich stuff.”
“Thomas made me a hamburger.” Edward’s tone is flat.
“He did?” Rachel’s brows shoot up. “I didn’t know. I’ll pay for it.”
“Stop.” I hold up a hand. “Thomas makes us all hamburgers all the time. Ground beef is not that expensive.”
“I’m not taking advantage of your generosity, especially considering you don’t like me at all.”
Her jab makes me want to argue. Instead, I only say, “You’re not.”
