“That was so long ago.”
“I know, but I’m truly sorry. I’m going to pay you back first, then all the others.”
I lifted my hand and gently brushed his hair from his face before cupping his face. I stood on my toes and kissed him softly, just a brush of skin against skin, but his hands tightened around me and I knew he wanted more, just like me.
“Wow. Maybe you’re finally growing up,” I said, then leaned my head into his shoulder as we finished the dance. Being in his arms felt so natural, so damn right, like I was where I was supposed to be.
Chapter 10
A few days passed. I wasn’t sure what to do with Charlie. So Tammy agreed to meet me for a drink so we could discuss him.
When I walked inside the bar, I saw Charlie sitting on a stool at the bar. Smiling, he lifted his beer in a salute. I couldn’t help but grin back at him.
Glancing down at my low-cut top, one of the regulars said, “Nice tits.”
“Listen,” I said. “If you’re going to be a pig, then at least get it right. I have fantastic breasts!”
“Wanna grab my cock?”
I felt around my purse. “Oh, shoot. I didn’t bring any tweezers.”
He laughed.
“Stop it!” Charlie told him firmly. “Harass her anymore and I’ll throw your drunk ass out of here. Got it? Now apologize to the nice woman.”
“I’m sorry, Jaime,” the drunk said.
“Apology accepted.”
Eddie, the bartender, smiled. “Love your comebacks, girl.”
“Thanks,” I replied.
Charlie turned to face me. “Imagine running into you here.”
I hadn’t talked to him since the event, not for lack of trying on his part. It scared me, what he did to me, and every night I dreamt about our life together and it scared me even more.
“It’s the only drinking hole around,” I muttered.
“I have one big question on my mind. Why haven’t you returned any of my calls?”
I looked away.
“You got scared about what you were feeling. I know you way too well, girl. You can’t hide anything from me. It’s why I didn’t stop by. I thought it was better to give you some space.”
“It’s just...everything is taking me by surprise.”
“I know. I completely get it. Can I buy you a drink? I’ll put it on my tab,” he said hopeful.
I nibbled my lip, then nodded and took the bar stool beside him. “Sure. I
’ll take a Bud Light.”
He turned toward the bartender. “You heard the pretty lady. One Bud Light, please.”
“Thank you, Charlie,” I said.
“The pleasure’s all mine.”