The grouchy bartender from yesterday nods while pouring three shots of vodka.
“We’ll take them both,” Paisley shouts as if someone else is about to steal the loot.
“That’ll be forty bucks,” the burly man drawls.
Brody coughs into his fist. “Damn rip off.”
The guy stares him down. “They’re in high demand.”
“You can afford it.” His wife holds out an open palm.
“Now you want my money.” He peels a crisp fifty from his wallet.
“Gonna need more than that, husband.” She wiggles her fingers.
“For what? There are only two available, which is two too many.”
“We’re having burger baskets for lunch.” Paisley nods at a chalkboard that lists the barely legible specials.
“Delicious,” he deadpans. His lack of enthusiasm hands her another fifty.
“Thanks.” She smacks him with a kiss before spinning on her heel. “I’ll tell him to keep the change.”
Which the man in charge is all too eager to have. I didn’t think the weathered local knew how to smile, but he’s looking pretty pleased while passing the women their purchase. Paisley shakes out the white fabric before slipping it over her head. Bianca doesn’t hesitate to do the same. Dust billows around them in a thick cloud.
My lips twitch as I watch my princess enjoy herself. She tugs at the bottom hem of her friend’s top, tying the baggy material into a makeshift knot at Paisley’s waist. Bianca’s shirt gets the same treatment before she lifts her phone to take a selfie of their matching outfits. The duo cackle loudly at the promotional image they create, proudly displaying the Dirty Dicks logo. If the bartender cared about bringing in new customers, he’d post thatpicture out front. But then I’d have to threaten him with bodily harm.
“This place is a dump.” Brody wrinkles his upturned nose at the stained carpet.
“Don’t be a rich asshole,” I complain at him in return.
“That’s exactly what I am.”
“Doesn’t mean you need to spoil the vibe.” I inhale a deep breath. The recognizable stench of grease and cheap beer permeates the air. “Our women and your dad love it.”
His focus trails to where Dennis inserted himself into a cribbage competition at a corner table. “Ridiculous.”
“You could join him.”
My friend recoils. “What the fuck is wrong with you?”
“They’re having a blast.” I thrust an arm at his wife dancing circles around Bianca. “It’s like Christmas in late October.”
He curls his upper lip at me. “And you’re a jolly fucking giant all of a sudden.”
“Why wouldn’t I be? What’s to be upset about?”
“For starters, your father is hounding you and my sister is involved by proxy.”
That flattens my mood into a scowl. “She’s safe with me.”
“Didn’t say otherwise. Just pointing out that you’re technically on the run and there’s not that much to be overjoyed about.”
Bianca chooses that moment to tip her head back with a giddy squeal that vibrates the walls of this dive bar. It’s a different pitch than when I make her come, but my cock doesn’t care. I widen my stance in an attempt to hide the evidence of her effect on me.
“Fuck,” Brody spits. “You’re not even bothering to hide it anymore.”
“Why would I?”
