Page 29 of Gravity

“Nothing. I’m out with you.” I know what she’s doing: she’s trying to get me to talk to him.

“So, you’re not going to have it out with him, ask him what’s going on?”

I shrug. “I don’t know. Maybe. Dad keeps telling me not to give up and that he needs me, but I think the only thing he needs right now is to get the stick out of his ass.”

“Do you think he’s okay with you working there?”

“After this afternoon, I don’t think anyone is happy with me working there. Gray didn’t appear best pleased that’s for sure. I just don’t know anymore.”

His contradictive attitude gives me an indication that there is something far greater on his mind than just his grief, but I don’t know how long I can go on pretending that I’m okay with it.

“I’m just going to be myself when he’s around and see what happens.”

“And being yourself is getting crazy drunk with your bestie and dancing the night away,” she grins, holding up her glass in a toast. “To us girls, and may the men realize what they are missing out on when they are being jackasses.”

I grin, raising my glass to meet hers. “To us girls.”

* * *

Hot Tuna never fails when it comes to giving you the vibe you’re after. While Chick’s Oyster Bar is just as upbeat, the chilled clam shack feel is nothing compared to this place. You can feel the atmosphere before you’ve even stepped foot out of the cab, the music vibrating in your chest like never before. With regular entertainment throughout the week, tonight is DJ night, and Makenna is literally bouncing out of her skin with excitement.

“My God, I forgot how busy this place gets on a weekend,” I call from behind her as we make our way inside. Everywhere we turn, we bump into people, apologizing as we go, as the heat from the club covers my body.

“Have you missed this place?” she laughs.

“I’ve not missed the heat.”

“Skinny Margaritas?”

“Please.”

We get drinks and remain at the bar, and although I’ve told my friend that I am out with her and her alone, I can’t help my eyes drifting around the club to look for Grayson.

“Well, if it isn’t Ms. Nelson?”

I turn toward the sound of the male voice and smile. “Hey, Ryan. How are you doing?” I step into his embrace, and the strength of him lifts me up off the floor. I’ve known Ryan ever since he started working here. My interview with him had not been like I’d expected. Instead of him asking me loads of questions about how I’d contribute as part of a team or what I could bring to the club, we’d sat outside on the patio talking about all the things we’d like to do this summer.

“I’m good thanks.”

“Ready for Monday?”

“Of course. Can’t wait.”

“Excellent. I’ve provided you with a locker and there’s an apron in there, so you’ll just have to ask Gray for the key.”

“Thanks. Is he working tonight?”

He looks around the bar. “Yeah. He must still be out back, though. Shall I give him a shout?”

“No, it’s fine. I’m here with Makenna anyway.” I point as she steps back to hand me my drink. I don’t miss the descent of his stare when he checks out my friend, and her eyes, too, roam over him like he’s her next meal.

“Well, that’s probably for the best. He’s in another one of his moods. You two ladies enjoy your evening. Give me a shout if you need anything.”

“Thanks, Ryan.” I smile, not surprised by the fact Grayson is a little off. Him staying out of the way is likely a good idea because I can’t be held responsible for what leaves my mouth now my body is intoxicated.

“Damn, he is a fine piece of ass,” Makenna says, checking Ryan out as he heads around the bar. “I wouldn’t kick him out of bed.”

“You don’t kick him out of bed.” I laugh. “I don’t understand why you two don’t just tell everyone that you are together.”