We all share a laugh.
“Oh yeah, it really puts this place on the classy map. A signature of sorts. I guess it makes ladies night more interesting.” Lacie wags her brows.
Molly hums in approval. “They need something to keep us coming back. Especially if a hot guy is the one to take your bra off. But let’s be honest, we don’t have enough options to be picky.”
“In more ways than one.” I glance around at all the familiar faces. Finding a guy I didn’t attend high school with is a challenge.
Lacie clinks her glass against mine. “Amen, sister.”
“We can visit my old roommate for a change of pace. Harlyn lives in the big city,” I tell them with a smile.
Molly’s eyes grow wide. “Imagine all the fresh meat. Let’s do it.”
Lacie holds up her hand. “I second that.”
“Okay. I’ll find out what works for her. In the meantime,” I pick up my drink and drain the rest, “let’s enjoy ourselves in Silo Springs.”
“To the extent that your restrictions will allow.” Molly grins when I scowl. She lifts her chin toward the far corner. “I see your bodyguard is on duty.”
A muscle pops in my jaw. “He’s such a bulldog.”
Molly nods. “I’d say. He hasn’t loosened up one bit when it comes to you.”
I can feel my brother’s stare from across the bar. He’s been holed up against the wall for over an hour. It’s beyond ridiculous that he feels the need to keep such diligent watch. He desperately needs another hobby. I’ve never been reckless or irresponsible when it comes to men. Jace makes it seem like the opposite. Heaven forbid a guy shows interest and tries talking to me.
“Good evening, ladies.” The lazy drawl comes from behind us. I peek over my shoulder and find Lance standing far too close. There’s no sign of the police uniform I’ve seen him strutting around town in. This preppy version reminds me of the kid I graduated with. He’s grinning at all of us, but his eyes are locked on me. I do my best to repress a shudder.
“Hey, Lance.” Molly’s greeting is all wispy breath and unbridled desire. Interesting.
His gaze skitters off me when he nods at her. “Hi, Molls.”
She twirls a lock of her ruby hair. “Off duty tonight?”
“I’m still patrolling, just a different kind.” He takes a moment to openly ogle us, licking his lips in an overly lewd fashion.Gross.
Lacie picks at her nails. “I heard you picked up Grady Bowen the other day.”
My hackles rise with a resounding screech.
“Sure did. He was asking for it. Arrested him on several counts. It was a pleasure slapping those cuffs on him.” Lance looks way too proud of himself.
Fiery heat fills my veins. “You did what?”
Lance blanches at the venom in my tone. “He deserved it.”
I cross my arms. “I find that highly doubtful.”
The surprise melts off his face, replaced by a fierce glare meant to intimidate. “You’re still defending him?”
Lance’s question is a cracking whip slicing through the space between us. Many would probably shrivel at this open hostility, especially from a police officer. But I’m not one of them. I sit up straighter and narrow my eyes.
“Of course. Grady is my friend.” I nearly choke over the last word.
“What a fucking waste,” he mutters.
“Oh snap,” Molly whispers.
Her stare is latched on something over my shoulder. Hair on the back of my neck rises from that look alone. A shiver ripples through me regardless of the balmy temperature. When I follow her gaze, my stomach bottoms out. Grady is hovering a few mere feet away.
