Page 50 of Finding Redemption

“Don’t I know it.”

I watch Thayer work the room greeting guests. She’s gorgeous as always, but the flash of red to her right draws my attention. And suddenly, there’s no comparison.

“Everyone deserves a second chance, Walker.” Ava’s words are true, but I’m not sure I can trust myself.

“I know.” My stomach knots as Thayer greets Reese, my worst fears unfolding before me.

“Thayer won’t hurt you,” Riley says.

I scrutinize the two talking. “Not like I hurt her, right? She won’t ruin everything.” I set my empty glass down before turning to leave when I’m met with a whirlwind of blonde.

“Walker.” Candy closes in on me.

“Candy, how are you?” I ask, taking a step back. “It’s been awhile.”

“Yeah, baby. Too long.” She runs her long, red-tipped nail down my chest. “How’s it going?”

I take her hand in mine, removing it. “Good. How have you been?”

She rubs against me, making me immediately scan the room for Reese. “I’ve been real good.”

“I bet you have.” I duck her lips when she tries to kiss me.

She purses her lips when I move away from her. “Why are you being shy? You remember what a good time we always have together, don’tcha?”

“You did always get home safe.” Riley chuckles. “Best ride in town.” I glare at him, and he winks.

She smirks at Riley until Ava stares her down. This is about to get ugly. “Reese? Is this your first gala?” Ava asks, looking past Candy.

“It is. I’m in love with all the glamorous gowns and the décor.” Her eyes sparkle with delight. She turns to me, and I stiffen from the jolt of her green eyes boring into me. As if they know my every thought.

Candy’s glance darts between the two of us. “Let’s dance, lover.” She fists my jacket, tugging me to the dance floor. I can’t believe it when my feet follow her.

“I’ll be back… maybe not if I’m lucky.” I waggle my brows with a smile. Reese whispers to Ava, and Riley shakes his head.

I take Candy’s hand, twirling her as we hit the floor. She quickly takes hold, drawing me tight against her. “There’s my sexy man. Miss me, did ya?”

I swallow the knot in my throat, my gaze glued to Reese. “Not really.”

“What do you mean?” she demands.

As I’m about to answer her, Alden joins Reese, wrapping his arm around her waist. “You know what? Fuck it. I missed the hell outta you, baby.” I slide my hand down to her ass for all to see, including the one woman I’d prefer to have in my arms.

“I knew you were still there.”

“What do you mean?” I ask, my brows drawing together.

“You haven’t been around,” she says.

My eyes flutter to Reese. “I’ve been busy, working.”

“Who you been ‘working’ with?” She curls her fingers.

“Not that kind of work.” Reese and Alden join us on the dance floor, and I can’t take my eyes off her. His hands. The way they caress her curves, running over her body. My face flames, and my body goes rigid.

Candy’s hand lands on my cheek, drawing my attention back to her. “If I didn’t know better, I’d think you were chubby chasing.”

“What in the hell is chubby chasing?”