He smirked. “My thoughts exactly.”
I rolled my eyes. “At least let me return her bag first.” I didn’t wait for his answer as I grabbed the crackers out of his hands, my fingertips trailing along his palm. I returned the bag and apologized once again.
I looked between Muscles and the door. There would be no outrunning him now.
“I really didn’t expect to see you again,” he growled, and brought my attention back to his trimmed beard and wavy brown hair.
“I had hoped you wouldn’t see me too,” I replied with a grin.
His lips pulled down in a frown. “That is not what I said.”
I waved him off. “Let me guess. I can leave or you will call security.” I raised an eyebrow.
Muscles nodded.
“Figured.” I shrugged. “Let me get my mom.”
His forehead wrinkled in confusion. “You’re here with your mom?”
I tipped my head, “Yeah, she was with me last time too.” I side-eyed him. “Don’t you remember? She walked out with me…” I made my way farther into the room.
His scowl deepened, “Honestly no, I remembered someone being beside you, but I didn’t really look at who.” He paused. “It was a very long day.” His voice lost some of its edge and I didn’t push. I headed toward the table where Mom sat. She reached over and patted Robert’s arm.
Dang. I wish I didn’t have to cut this short.
“Hey, Mom, sorry to interrupt,” I smiled at Robert, “but I guess we’re leaving.” I motioned my head to Mr. Muscles looming over my shoulder.
Mom leaned and looked at the man behind me. She grinned. “No thanks.”
“What?” My eyes opened wide.
“I think I am going to stay until the drawing of the raffles, in case I win something.” She motioned for Muscles to come closer with her hand. “Excuse me, can you help me?” Mom met my eyes and mouthed, “My turn.”
Wait, what?
I stepped back and felt the warmth of Muscles’ chest close behind me.
Whoa!
“That’s fine. Text me when you are ready for a ride. I’ll be nearby.” I had no desire to break up the reunion between Mom and her friend anyway.
“How can I help you?” Muscles’ voice was full of caution.
“Well, you see, my phone battery has died.” She lifted her phone and shook it dramatically in the air. “Now, I know my daughter isn’t supposed to be here,” she shook her head at me with a look of shame, “but she can’t leave or I won’t have a ride home.” Mom’s lips formed a slight pout.
Really, Mom? I quirked a brow.
“It’s okay, Hannah,” Robert spoke up. “I would be happy to give you a?—”
A distinct thump came from under the table, followed by a look of pain and confusion on Robert’s face. I coughed to cover my laugh.
Mom looked at Muscles before flashing her grip of raffle tickets. “I purchased all these raffle tickets, and as a paying customer, I’m sure you’re okay with my daughter waiting in the foyer for me, just so I can see if I win anything. Right?”
“I’m not sure that is a good idea…” Muscles’ voice had changed, the hard edge melted just a fraction. I peeked up at him over my shoulder. His lips were in a straight line.
“What if she doesn’t talk to anyone attending the party?” she continued to beg. “Just so I can have a ride home? I’m sure you’d want your mother to be treated kindly as well.”
Wow, she was good.
