Page 33 of Smokey's Distraction
“I’ll be there in a bit. Go to my room and stay there. You’re pissing everyone off, and I can’t protect you.”
“I’m not doing shit!” Anger punctuated his words.
“Okay, settle the fuck down and just wait in my room. The club girls are busy with the members. Go to my room.Now.”
“I’m going now. I don’t wanna go to jail.” A sob filled Smokey’s ears.
“Wait ’til I get there. I’ll sort it out for you. Are you in my room?”
“Uh-huh. Do you got any whiskey? They cut me off—the fucking bikers cut me off.”
Smokey’s blood ran cold. “Don’t be sayin’ shit like that unless you want a stomping. Disrespecting a brother isn’t allowed. I can’t help you if you talk smack, so just wait for me. Turn on the fuckin’ TV, but don’t leave the room.”
“Okay,” Ryan slurred. “I’m just gonna lie down and wait for you.”
“Yeah, you do that.”
Smokey slid the phone into his pocket and hurried back into the restaurant.
“Is everything okay?” Ashley asked.
“Actually, no. I gotta go. We’ll do this another time.” He picked up the check, then pulled out his wallet and threw down some Ben Franklins.
Ashley narrowed her eyes. “Are you bullshitting me?”
“No. Something’s come up with my brother. I’ll check my schedule and see if we can meet in my office tomorrow. If not, then the day after.”
“Is it something bad?” she asked as she opened her purse.
“No—it’s more of a pain in my ass. What’re you doing?” He watched as she took out a credit card.
“Paying for my share.”
“Put the damn card away. I’m paying.”
“This isn’t a date, so I’d feel better if I paid.” Ashley slapped the Visa card down on top of the bill folder.
Smokey took it and slid it over to her. “This was a business meeting, and according to my accountant, I need more expenses. I got this.” He motioned for the waiter to come over.
“Do you need change?” the server asked as he opened the folder and glanced at the bills.
“No.” Smokey pushed his chair back.
“Thank you, sir. Have a wonderful evening.” The waiter turned away.
Smokey walked around to Ashley and pulled out her chair, then escorted her out of the steakhouse.
Stepping outside, Ashley pulled up the collar of her coat. “That wind is damn cold,” she said.
“Yeah, but it’s supposed to get warmer next week.”
“I hope so. I’m tired of snow.” She glanced over at him. “Nothing was really accomplished tonight except for eating a delicious meal, so thanks for that.”
“You’re welcome.” Smokey shoved his hands into the pockets of his leather jacket.
“I guess I’ll see you tomorrow at some point,” she said, half-turning away.
“I’ll walk you to your car and follow you home.” The person who stood by her car, then ran off still gnawed at his gut.
