“So, what do you do?”
Movement on my left has me looking over, and the second I do, I find Parker watching me with a smile on her lips. She gives me a quick thumbs-up before turning her attention back to something Linc is saying.
“I’m a chef,” I say, trying to muster as much confidence as possible. Honestly, I don’t feel like I deserve that title in any sense, but I guess technically, I am, so I’m rolling with it. It’sbetter than explaining that I’m a mess who’s trying to figure out what direction she wants her life to go in. “What about you?”
“Publishing.”
“Oh, really?”
As he dives into explaining his job, I find myself weirdly interested. It occurs to me as he’s talking that he’s actually quite hot. He’s got messy, dirty blond hair, bright blue eyes, strong cheekbones, and the perfect amount of scruff covering his jaw. His clothes fit him well, hinting at the fact that he’s got a decent body beneath them.
Honestly, I could have done a hell of a lot worse.
Any thoughts I previously had about leaving are quickly forgotten as our conversation moves on to other subjects.
Before I know it, one drink has turned into three, and I’ve got a nice little buzz going.
I have no idea how much time has passed, but I’m surprised when Casey steps up beside me and says that they’re leaving.
“Could I get your number?” Levi asks as I climb from the stool. There’s a little hesitancy in his voice this time, and before I get a chance to think about my answer, I find myself taking his cell when he offers it up. I type my name into his contacts and pop a little hockey stick emoji after it. That alone tells me that I’ve had one too many drinks.
He accepts his cell back with a smile. “I’ll message you.”
Something flutters inside me. I think it’s excitement, but it’s been so long since I’ve felt it over a guy, I can’t be sure.
“Okay. Thanks for tonight. It was nice to meet you.”
“You too,” I say as I hook my purse over my shoulder and follow Casey and Kodie toward the exit.
As we pass the players’ table, Kodie and Casey say their goodbyes, while I stand there a little awkwardly. I may have met the guys a few times, but I highly doubt they remember who I am.
Glancing around the table, I find most of the guys focusing on Kodie as he speaks. But in contrast, Cole is watching me. His brows are pinched, and his expression is tight, as if he’s trying to figure something out. He certainly doesn’t look as if he’s having a good time.
I smile at him, and he relaxes a little.
“Ready?” Casey asks me, dragging my attention away from my new boss.
“Yeah,” I agree before following them outside.
“I can get a rideshare,” I offer. “You don’t need to take me home.”
“Not happening,” Kodie states.
“Nice try,” Casey says, hooking her arm through mine. “So…he was cute.”
I swear, Kodie practically growls.
“Yeah,” I agree. “Seemed like a nice guy, too. Has a normal job and his feet on the ground.”
“Sounds boring,” Kodie shoots over his shoulder.
“Sounds perfect,” Casey counters, loudly enough for her man to hear. “Stable and safe doesn’t mean boring.”
Kodie shakes his head, the lights of his car illuminating as we get closer.
“Are you going to see him again?” Casey asks, twisting in her seat as soon as we’re inside the car.
“I don’t know. I guess we’ll see if he messages.”
