Ethan physically pushes him away this time, making Jace and Cas laugh until tears glint in their eyes.
“Have a nice night, ladies,” Jace calls as he tips his hat, winking before sauntering off to the bar with Cas, the girls he came with following him.
“I think my brother has a crush on you,” Grace says slyly.
“Which one?” Cassie asks immediately.
“Ethan,” Grace answers, sipping her soda, eyes glinting with mischief.
“Not having this conversation, girls,” I mutter, lifting the menu like a shield.
I’m halfway through my second beer when I notice Grace’s gaze flick over my shoulder, her expression tightening.
I follow her line of sight.
Asher just walked in. And he’s not alone.
The woman on his arm is everything this place isn’t, polished, perfumed, perfect. Posh. Her city-girl energy clashes against the rustic warmth of the bar.
He’s all cowboy, tall, golden, easy grin beneath his Stetson, and she’s sleek, like a glass of champagne in a room full of beer. Her nose wrinkles faintly as she scans the crowd, eyes landing on the scuffed boots and laughter with clear disdain.
“Who’s that?” Grace asks quietly.
I glance at Penny.“Ash’s new girlfriend. Met her at an event in Cheyenne.”
Grace looks down, blinking fast.“Since when does he have a girlfriend?”
Her eyes shimmer, and Penny gently slips an arm around her shoulders, no words needed.
“Evenin’, ladies.”
Asher’s voice pulls our attention as he approaches, the brunette still clinging to his hand.
“Hi,” Penny greets easily.
“Hello,” I echo.
“Good evening,” Grace murmurs, tone polite but distant.
“This is Leona, my girlfriend.” Asher’s eyes flicker between the three of us, but linger just a heartbeat too long on Grace.
“Nice to meet you, Leona,” Penny says warmly.
“Nice to meet you.” I extend my hand. Leona hesitates, just long enough to make it awkward, then finally takes it.
“Leona,” she says, her voice smooth but chilly.
“Summer,” I answer, just as flat.
She glances at Asher again, who is still watching Grace. Her gaze follows his and cools several degrees. She studies Grace before turning on a practiced smile.
“Hi, I don’t think we’ve met yet,” she says sweetly.“I’m Asher’s girlfriend.”
Grace stares at the offered hand, then shakes it.“I know. I’m Grace.” Her voice could cut glass.
They hold eye contact a moment too long. Then Leona smirks.“Nice hat. Is that a thing around here?”
Grace straightens, fire flashing in her eyes.“Around here?” she repeats slowly. A shiver runs down my spine. Oh no.
