Page 4 of Pucking Daddy

"For what it's worth," I say, "anyone fighting that hard for their kid is probably exactly the kind of parent who should win."

He looks at me then. Really looks, like he is seeing me for the first time. The bar noise fades around us, and I feel the weight of his attention like a physical thing.

"You don't know me."

"No. But I spent the last ten years taking care of other people's children. I know the difference between parents who show up and parents who don't." I hold his gaze. "You look like someone who shows up."

The silence stretches between us. The song on the jukebox changes—something slower, more intimate. His knee brushes against mine under the bar, and neither of us moves away.

“Why are you being nice to me?” he asks.

“Severe case of optimism. No known cure,” I say lightly. “It’s kind of my thing.”

That almost-smile tugs at his mouth again. “Sunshine.”

"Guilty."

“I could use some of that.”

His voice is quieter now. Rougher.

Something in my chest tightens, just a little. I don’t know why, but it feels like he really means it.

I should probably make a joke. Deflect. Keep it light.

Instead, I hold his gaze.

“Careful,” I say softly. “I come with a lot of pep talks and baked goods metaphors.”

His mouth curves, slow and deliberate. “I can handle baked goods.”

“I don’t know,” I tease. “You seem more like a… whiskey and bad decisions kind of guy.”

He leans closer, his shoulder brushing mine this time. Not accidental. Not even pretending to be.

“Maybe I’m trying to make a better one tonight.”

My breath catches.

Okay.

Okay, we’ve crossed into something else. He’s definitely flirting. And between his attention and the fact that I’m moving tomorrow, I feel bolder than I should.

I glance down at my drink, then back at him. “And I’m part of that plan?”

His eyes drop to my lips again, like he can’t help it.

“Maybe.”

Heat spreads through me, quick and reckless.

This is insane. I don’t usually act like this.

I came to Mickey’s to relax, have a drink. Maybe talk to one of the regulars one last time. Say my goodbyes.

I didn’t plan to meet a handsome stranger with intense eyes, a quiet voice, and hands that feel like they could ruin me in the best way.

And yet… somehow, he brings this new boldness out in me.