Page 33 of Rags's Awakening
“All bad. I’m not looking for that.”
“You could’ve fooled me.”
She pushed her chair back. “It’s the martinis and, well… I was just shocked that you were so forward, that’s all.”
He stood up, bent close, his voice low against her ear. “It didn’t feel like shock or too much booze to me.”
His nearness was distracting, so she pushed her chair back farther. “You’re impossible.”
“Yeah? And you’re still here talking with me,” he said, eyes flicking to her lips.
“You’re atmytable, remember?”
“Saving your sweet ass from that wimp.” He grinned. “I loved the way you thanked me, baby.” He winked and turned around.
Casey refused to look as he walked off, knowing full well he was swaggering.How could I let myself kisshim,of all people? What’s wrong with me?
“Who was that?” Zoe slurred.
“Just a moment of weakness.”
“I’m pretty sure he’s in that motorcycle thing I was telling you about.” Zoe hiccupped, then looked at the preppy guy. “Do you know the name of the club thing-y?”
“The Insurgents?”
“That’s it. I bet he’s one of those guys. I thought you didn’t like to live on the wild side.” Another hiccup.
“I don’t, and I’m positive he’s an outlaw.” She shook her head. “The drinks here are too strong.”
“But they’re tasty as hell.” Zoe giggled.
“What’s your name?” Casey asked, turning to the preppy guy.
“Ryan. Yours?”
“Casey. Are you from here?”
“Born and raised, like Zoe.” He wrapped an arm around Zoe and pulled her close to him. “What about you?”
“No. I’m from Denver, but lived the last six years in Boise, Idaho.”
“What brought you here?”
“Work, wanting a new start, and all the usual reasons people move to a new place.” She felt Chase’s stare but refused to look.
“Are you new in town?” Ryan said.
“No. We’ve been friends for over a year, right, Casey?” Zoe said.
“Yeah. I’ve been here almost a year and a half. So far so good.”Except for that outlaw who makes me feel things I haven’t felt in long time.Casey waved the waitress over and asked for the bill.
“It’s been taken care of,” the blonde-haired server said.
Casey frowned at Zoe. “I told you it was on me tonight.”
“Rags paid.” The barmaid picked up the glasses and put them on a tray.
“Rags? Who’s that?”
