The owner of the firm, Kevin, waltzes up with hishusband on his arm. They are both in tacky Christmas sweaters.
“Hi, Kevin. Raymond.” I reach around to loop my arm through Hunter’s. “This is my boyfriend, Hunter.”
“It’s very nice to meet you.”
They all shake hands and introduce themselves.
“Thanks for inviting us,” Hunter says. “Any night out with this guy is a great evening.”
Hunter presses a kiss to the top of my head, sending a fissure of emotions crashing through me. He really is laying it on thick.
“As long as you don’t go crazy on the open bar and rip things off of walls.” Kevin laughs, but I know he’s serious.
Hunter holds up his hands. “I promise. I won’t get out of line.”
“Good. You two enjoy yourselves.”
More people come up and introduce themselves to us, and by the time a bartender waves us forward, my nerves are fried.
“Two shots of cinnamon whisky and two beers,” I say.
“Coming right up.”
“And whatever he’s having.” I throw a thumb over my shoulder to Hunter.
“Those aren’t for me too?” He quirks a brow at me. “Hitting it pretty hard, aren’t you?”
“Yes.” I nod. “I need all the liquid courage I can get to make it through this evening.”
Two shot glasses are set on the bar, and I suck them down back-to-back. Hunter’s eyes go wide.
“Am I going to be picking you up off the floor later?”
“No.”
At least I don’t think so. But we’ll see. I’m already at my limit of socialization and the evening has only just begun.
I hope I can survive it.
Chapter Five
HUNTER
THE BEST BOYFRIEND EVER
“We need more shots!” someone calls out. I’m not sure who. After dinner, the drinks started flowing. I’m guessing with an open bar, people will get their fill.
“Ollie, you want more?”
“Yes,” he answers.
“You sure?” I ask Ollie. His eyes are starting to glaze over behind his glasses.
“I’m totally fish.”
“Fish?” I laugh.
“Fine. I meant fine.” He hiccups.
