The wistful note in Alicia’s tone made him glance at her, and she shook her head.Logan had mentioned it once that he never noticed when women flirted with him.His laser focus kept his priorities where they had to be, and didn’t allow him to casually flirt.
“I never knew.”
Alicia shrugged.“I don’t mix business and pleasure, ever, but you could have swayed me.”
Ares laughed.“Thanks, I think.”
“Is she in tech?”
“No, she’s a chef.”
Downstairs, Josie stood from her seat.The man next to her pulled her close to him and his heart beat in double time.
“Lucky girl.”
“I didn’t text her.I should have.”
Alicia lets out a low whistle.“Yeah.”
When he saw the other man grab her shoulder, that was enough for him.
“Call me next week,” Ares brushed by Alicia, taking the stairs two at a time.He made his way through the packed restaurant in time to see Josie grabbing the edge of the table to balance herself.
In two steps, he was behind her.
“I’m leaving now.”She bit her lip, sniffling.
“Josie, if you’d just listen to us—” Carter grabbed Josie’s arm.
Josie stumbled, making the table wobble, spilling their drinks.
“The lady said she’s leaving.”Ares stared at the two men.The guy he’d never seen before took a step back.
“Ares, what are you doing here?”Her dark eyes flashed with anger, but she didn’t pull her hand out of his when he laced his fingers through her clammy hand.
“Josie, we didn’t mean anything—” Carter said.
“Let’s go, pretty girl,” Ares stood behind her, wrapping his arm around her waist.
“It’s been fun guys, but this conversation is over.”
“Josie, I needed to talk to you,” the man went to put his hand on her, but before he could, Ares spun, putting himself between her and the man.“She said she’s leaving now.Get your hand off of her or we’re going to have a problem.”
He felt Josie stiffened beside him.Carter raised an eyebrow.His grip tightened slightly before he let go.“We’re just trying to help.”
“I didn’t ask for your help.I told you I don’t need it.”Josie said.
“We’ll talk later,” Carter said.
“Did you hear her?She said no thanks,” Ares snapped.
Carter stepped back.“Fine.Our next conversation will be about increasing your rent.”
Josie’s shoulders stiffened, but she continued staring straight ahead.
Ares grabbed Josie’s hand and speed walked her through the restaurant.
“Slow down!”
