My stomach clenches, and a wave of nausea crashes into me.Message received.Even with my bright makeup and this sexy dress, he only sees me as his best friend’s little sister.
Stop it, Riley. You agreed to this to help him. Period.
“Hi.” I smooth my sweaty palms down my dress. “Sorry if I made you wait.”
“That’s okay.” He grins and pushes off the car. “Ready to go?”
“Sure.”
He opens the passenger door for me. I climb in and keep my focus fixed out the windshield as I put my seat belt on.
“Have you been to this place before?” he asks as he eases into the driver’s seat.
“Nastya chose it.” I fiddle with my ring. “She and her husband have been there.”
“Will he be joining us?”
I shake my head. “Tonight was supposed to be a girls’ night.”
He snorts. “Sorry for tagging along. I hope I didn’t ruin your plans.”
“You didn’t. Don’t worry about it.”
“Ry?”
I peer over at him, teeth digging into my bottom lip.
“You look incredible,” he murmurs, his green irises darker than usual. “The guys at the club will be dying for a chance with you.”
“Thanks.” I nod.
He’s just being polite, that’s all.
I entwine my fingers and study the road. With every second that passes on our way to the club, I regret not listening to Nastya. This is a terrible idea.
Nastya is already waiting inside.I expected to have to wait a while to get in, considering the club is new. I should have known better with Hayden Hale at my side.
My best friend is wearing a short green dress, her red hair cascading over her shoulders. The grin she gives me sets my body at ease, like always.
“You made me wait,” she scolds me as I plant a kiss on her cheek. With her hands on my upper arms, she takes a step back and looks me over. “But in this outfit? I can’t even be mad at you. You are so beautiful.”
Her eyes slide to Hayden, and her expression cools.
“Hi.” He nods, stepping in so close, his shoulder brushes mine. “Sorry we’re late.”
“Uh-huh.” She folds her arms over her chest and eyes him up and down. “Are you really going to screen Ry’s dates?”
“Yes.” His lips twitch. “I always keep my promises.”
“What if people recognize you?” She arches a brow.
“This place is packed. No one will pay me any attention.” He shrugs. “And even if they do, I’ll make sure they don’t bother you. It’s on me to deal with unwanted attention.” He places his hand on the small of my exposed back.
A jolt of electricity arcs through me. It’s so strong, I worry it shocked my heart out of rhythm.
As if he could feel it too, he quickly drops his hand. “Ready for drinks? I’ve been told they’re on me.”
I give him a smile. If I want to have fun tonight, I have to stop overthinking everything.
