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The other man blinked, his head finally popping out of his ass. “What’s your deal, man?”
“She was clearly not into it. Back off.”
“You back off. You’ve stared at her all night.”
My heart made a traitorous leap. I knew he’d been watching me this whole time and I loved it.
Dammit. I was supposed to be over this. Over him.
It was time to lock in. No more of this.
“If this is gonna turn into a dick measuring contest, I’m leaving.” I stepped away, breaking the momentary spell I’d been under. “Have a terrible night, boys.”
I stormed out of the bar, my combat boots making each step louder. When I was in the hot summer air, I let out a shaky breath.
I was so angry, and I wasn’t sure who’d taken first place on my shit list. Clearly, the man I picked was a complete idiot. A dangerous one, at that. It was obvious Gabriel didn’t know I could take care of myself, so he stepped in.
Both of them deserved all my rage.
But I knew who this was directed at. Me. I was angry at myself. Why had I come here? Why hadn’t I stayed away? Not only had I gotten my hair done in his favorite color, but I’d watched to see when he’d leave. I’d worn an outfit I knew would get his attention.
There was no reason to do this. Gabriel wouldn’t stay in Strawberry Springs for long. He’d leave just like the first time.
And all of this would be a waste.
Behind me, the door opened.
“Are you all right?” It was a soft voice I knew all too well.
“Don’t ask.”
“Okay.” He didn’t react to my anger. “I won’t.”
I wanted to leave, but my legs wouldn’t move. “Why are you here?” I finally asked.
“W-what?”
“I asked why you’re here.” I crossed my arms and turned to him. “I told you not to come back.”
He considered his words for a long time. “I was out of options.”
“Is that supposed to make me feel bad for you?”
“No. It’s just a fact.”
“How long are you staying?”
“A few weeks.”
“You could have gotten a hotel,” I said.
“You can trust that I exhausted all options before coming here.”
“Still. It’s too long.”
“I know. And I know you’ll hate me as long as I’m here. I deserve that.”
I froze. “What did you say?”
