Page 62 of Whiskey

“You need to drive with me, and we’ll meet him there. Any questions he might ask about me, remember what we went over.”

“I can’t have him see me with you. It’ll only make him more suspicious.”

“Maybe this isn’t a good guy for you.”

“Seriously, Quinn,” I rubbed my head, “look at it from his point of view. He’s just looking out for me.”

“Maybe, but I’m under orders, Ivy.”

“I know that, and I’m not asking you to break the rules, so here’s my idea.” I told him my plan, and there was silence.

“Cole isn’t going to like this,” he huffed, “but I know your situation is slightly different than the usual. Give me a minute to fill Zack in.”

“It is, and thanks, Quinn.” I hurried out of the kitchen ahead of him.

I headed over to the door where Carson was waiting.

“I’m ready, but I would feel more comfortable driving myself over.”

“I understand that.” He shrugged and didn’t seem to mind.

“Thanks.” He held the door open for me, and we split off toward our cars. Zack was outside, puffing away on a cigar, and watched me until I got to the truck. Quinn had the doors unlocked, and when I jumped in the driver’s seat, he groaned from where he lay in the back.

“This isn’t in my job description.”

“I know, but think about how working with me will increase your resume.” I chuckled as I eased out of the parking lot in the giant Escalade. “Damn, she drives like a dream,” I purred, shifting the big beauty into drive. “Yeah, I need to get one of these.”

“You owe me for this.”

“Yup, a case of beer and some steaks. Would that be fair?”

“Maybe a cake too.” He shifted his position on the back seat. “And Mark can’t have any.”

“Deal.” I smirked. “He just pulled out in front of me, so stay low.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

A short time later, I was in a rowboat with Carson, who had propelled us out into the center of the lake. A few other couples were already there to enjoy the starry night. The sound of the water against the wooden boat was peaceful, and the squeak of the oars filled the odd silence that had fallen between us. Normally, I was better at making conversation on a date, but tonight I was a bit off.

“It’s so beautiful.” I sucked in a deep breath of fresh air and tried not to think about anything else but the moment I was in.

“Yes, the view is pretty great.” He grinned at me, and I smiled. “I’m pleased to get you alone. Even if that creepy guy probably has a pair of binoculars trained on me.”

“I’m sure he’s harmless.” I wrapped my sweater around me and had a flashback of Ty’s jacket. I squeezed my eyes shut to stop the memory. “Oh!” I jumped when Carson touched my bare thigh.

“Sorry,” he whispered, “there’s just something about two strangers in the moonlight in the middle of a lake that just makes things…” He trailed off, and I remembered more of what Savi had said. Have fun, let loose. You’re not looking for love.

“Special.” I couldn’t think of a better word as his hands moved down my thighs. Relax, Ivy. Only I couldn’t. He seemed to sense it and instead moved one of his hands up to stoke my cheek.

“That other guy you mentioned before, has he kissed you yet?”

Oh, shit. Images of Ty and me together flooded my head and momentarily blocked my view of Carson. I nodded.

“I hope to be that lucky.” He leaned back, and I took a breath once his hands were off me. Seriously, Ivy, live a little! I mentally kicked myself for not living in the moment and thought I should make it right.

“Tomorrow night,” I blurted. “But let’s meet somewhere different.”

“Yes, let’s lose your stalker.”

---