My eyes narrowed into thin slits at one important key point. “I am not a band member.”
He shrugged. “You’re living with us now, so all of the rules apply to you too.”
The idea of Danny, Nikko, or Liam running to my rescue in my time of need, following theanytime, anywhererule, was laughable.
“I hadonebeer, Liam!” I gestured to the zipper of his jeans. “And I didn’t even finish it!”
“I don’t know your limit.”
“Well, I do.”
He opened the passenger door. “Get in.”
I crossed my arms tightly. “Absolutely not.”
He began tapping his fingers. “Now, Avery. Come on.”
“I’m. Fine,” I protested firmly.
“Stop being difficult and just get in the damn truck.”
I combed my tense fingers through my hair, knowing my chances of winning this argument were slim, especially against him. “I can’t leave my car here. I have a lecture in the morning.”
“Tic can drive it back. He’s sober cab tonight.”
That reminded me of the drink he’d ordered at the bar. “And what about you? I saw your glass of whiskey inside. Are you breaking your stupid rules just to get me out of here?”
He exhaled loudly, growing impatient. “I haven’t had anything to drink. You and your friend kind of interrupted me before I could.”
I raised my brows, not believing him for a second.
He shook his head and pointed at the wet spot on his jeans. “Do you really think I want to spend the rest of the night with a wet dick? It’s not exactly the kind I was hoping for tonight.”
My lips twisted to hide my smile. “And you think you didn’t deserve it? Go dry it in the restroom.”
“Molesting a hand dryer isn’t a good look for me, Avery.” He nodded at the door he was still holding open. “Let’s go.”
“Okay, can we pretend for two seconds that you’re a nice guy?”
“Oh, I love role-playing.” His eyes darkened.
I sighed. “Please, can I have my keys? You know I’m careful when it comes to these things. I’ve never taken that risk, and I’m not about to start now. I can do all the drunk tests you want me to do if that will make you feel better.”
“As entertaining as that would be, no. I’m covered in beer, and I’m not in the mood,” he said, opening the door wider.
I stared at him and waited, hoping he would give up before I did.
Anger made his jaw twitch. “You want me to put you in the truck?”
“Don’t be so dramatic.” I laughed once and then noticed the seriousness hadn’t left his eyes.
He crouched down.
“Oh no. Don’t you eventhinkabout touching me—”
Before I could finish my futile threat, he lunged forward like a defensive line tackling their opponent.
I stumbled back a couple of steps, pushing on his shoulders as his arms wrapped around my waist. “All right, I give!”
