I guarantee Flynn has never thrown a punch. He’s too easygoing and carefree. Whereas Sawyer possesses a raw intensity that makes me think he’d win any brawl, no matter his opponent.
Rory coughs, but it doesn’t really cover her laugh.
Flynn frowns. “How old is he?”
“My age,” I reply. “He’s … scrappy.”
“I’ll start training now. By next year, I should be ready to kick his ass.” Flynn checks his watch. “That gives me ten minutes.”
“Thanks for offering,” I say sincerely. “You guys should go grab good spots to watch the fireworks.” I glance at Rory. “Did Carson end up coming? Go kiss him.”
Rory shakes her head. “He couldn’t make it.”
Flynn scoffs lightly, then sips more vodka. I don’t like Rory’s boyfriend because he’s bland and predictable. I wonder what Flynn’sissue with him is.
“But as long as you’re sure you’re good”—I nod in response—“I will go grab arealdrink.” Rory stands slowly, careful not to step on the hem of her dress.
“I thought you’d started Dry January early,” Flynn tells her.
Rory ignores him. “If you need anything, Wren, let me know.”
“Thanks, Rory.”
My sister leaves, and Flynn stands a second later.
“I should check in with Kit. I couldn’t find him earlier, and the caterers had some questions.”
I nod. “Thanks for being my personal bartender.”
“Anytime. As long as you don’t tell your sister.”
I smile. “What’s your issue with Carson?”
“Who?”
“Rory’s boyfriend. You scoffed when I mentioned him.”
“I think I swallowed some lint.”
I glance around the spotless laundry room. Raise a disbelieving eyebrow. “Okay. If that’s your story.”
“Speaking of douchebags?—”
“Were we?” I interject.
Flynn ignores me. “He’ll regret tonight, Wren. Take it from someone who was a high-school guy once—we take too long to figure some important shit out.”
I nod. I figured I was too dehydrated by now, but more tears threaten. At least I’m about to be alone again.
Flynn flashes me one final sympathetic smile, then leaves.
I reach for the bottle of champagne.
14
One problem with living in a small town and having the same friends since kindergarten? When you want to escape, it’s hard to find some privacy.
“What the fuck, dude?” Gus shouts, striding toward me with his hands outstretched. “We were supposed to go to Wade’s, then you just take off?”
