“Who just walked in?” Bower asks.
Whispering now, I say, “Ryland.”
“He just walked into the bar? Nooooo. Put me on FaceTime. I have something to say to him.”
“I’m not putting you on—oh shit, he’s coming over here.” I straighten up, and for some reason, look around for something to hide behind.
“Perfect, this is your opportunity.”
Coming up short, I consider putting my hand in front of my face. “My opportunity for what?”
“For telling him off.”
“Have you lost your mind? I’m not telling him off.” I spot my cocktail napkin and consider unfolding it and draping it over my head, but that might draw more attention.
“Why not? He deserves it.”
Unable to deal with Bower as Ryland approaches, I say, “I . . . I have to go.” I hang up the phone and cross one leg over the other just as Ryland approaches the chair next to me.
Be cool.
Act nonchalant.
Don’t embarrass yourself.
Chin held high, I mentally prepare for him to recognize me and to ask me how Bennett is doing, in which my retort will be, great because of my coaching.
Is that telling him off?
Maybe I could be more snappy about it. I could channel my inner Bower.
Tell Ryland that Bennett’s great because of my coaching, something you will never have the privilege of seeing.
That seems more like Bower.
God, why am I even trying to channel her?
Maybe because I’m slightly tipsy and irritated. Not a great combination.
Ryland and his friend move in and stop right in front of me. I lift my glass, and as Ryland makes eye contact with me, I take a sip of my drink.
He clears his throat, and I prepare my onslaught of distaste.
He ruffles his hair and says, “Uh, is anyone sitting here?” He points at the bar seat beside me as his friend sits down.
I swallow the liquid in my mouth and tilt my head to the side. “You’re asking if the seat next to me is taken?”
His brow creases. “Yeah . . .”
I repeat, “You’re asking me”—I point at my chest—“if the seat is taken?”
“Uh . . . yeah . . .” he draws out, looking more confused than ever, and that’s when it hits me.
Oh my God.
He has no idea who I am.
Absolutely zero idea.
