I lift my glass before throwing it back.
After a couple of drinks, Ash goes to the bathroom.
Nik nudges my shoulder. “I know what you did for Shane. Thank you.”
My brows pinch.
“We’ll pay you back. I’m just so grateful. He wouldn’t have gone if you hadn’t paid for it.”
“Don’t worry about it.” My mouth turns down, and I shrug. “I just want him to get better.”
She smiles, running a hand down my arm.
Then I add, “But uh… do me a favor? Don’t tell Ash. It’s easier if she keeps hating me.”
She nods.
When Ash returns, she asks,“Want to play pool?”
“Nah, I’m terrible.” Nik gestures toward me.
Absolutely not. Playing pool, a little drunk, with Ash is a terrible fucking idea.She turns those gray eyes in my direction and my stomach bottoms out.
“I’ll play if you want.” Apparently, I’m in themood to play with fire.
Ash doesn’t seem sure either but nods anyway.
Midway through the game, I can’t hold back my amusement anymore.
“Well, you haven’t gotten any better in the last six years.” I cover my grin by taking a swig of beer before setting it back down.
“Ha ha.” She rolls her eyes, leaning over the table. “It’s not like I’ve had time to play pool. I have a life.”
“I’m just saying, I think you’ve actually gotten worse, if that’s even possible.”
She hits the cue ball straight into the corner pocket, and I cover my mouth to stifle a laugh.
“Shit!” She spins to point at me. “Watch it. I’ll kick your ass.”
“Damn!” Taking a step back, I throw my hands up. “At least you’re not still a sore loser.”
That gets a real laugh from her—bright and warm. “Fuck off, would ya?”
Nik stands from the table she’s been sitting at watching. “Okay. I need to get out of here. I have to pick Shane up bright and early.” She wraps her arms around Ash. “Want me to drive you home? I’ve pretty well sobered up.”
Ash appears to be thinking about it.
Then she says, “Nah. I’m gonna turn this game around before I head home.”
Then she sticks her fucking tongue out. Literally, sticks it out like a child. I have to turn around to keep from cracking up.
She’s such a shit. One would think she’d grow out of it, but she hasn’t.
Thank God.
She has a way of making you want to strangle her and bury yourself in her all at the same time.
Nik nods, but her eyes flick to Ash one last time before she leaves.
