Page 44 of Unspoken Rules

“You ever been with one of those girls who is all giddy to not be driving? They sit here with their coffees and their snacks, playing with the radio, acting like a princess?”

He chuckles, flipping on his blinker to take a turn. “Unfortunately.”

I point at him. “Passenger princess.”

He laughs harder. “You’re nothing like that, thank fuck.”

I shiver. “Why would I be?”

Cole smiles but doesn’t say anything.

I want to ask where we’re going, but figure I’ll leave it as a surprise. It’s not like we’re going anywhere fancy with him dressed like that. Don’t get me wrong, I have no issue with how he looks, all dirty and rugged from work, but the nice places won’t let him in. But I’ve already had Cole in fancy-wear. And not that I’m having him tonight, but it’ll be nice to experience this side of him.

I lose track of time as I stare out the window, watching the trees and cars pass by on the highway. I swear I could fall asleep. Being in the car has always been relaxing for me. Something about the soft hum and vibrations lull me to sleep.

I notice the exit we take is a few towns past Lynncastor. Right off the exit, he turns into a full parking lot.

I lean forward to get a glimpse of the sign. “Beef and Brew House?”

He pulls into a spot and turns the truck off. “You play pool?”

“Like billiards?” I ask.

He nods, and it’s just another thing that reminds me of that night. I’m wondering if he’s doing this on purpose. Torturing me.

“Not well.”

He grins wide. “Then prepare to get your ass kicked.”

Before I can say anything, he’s hopping out of the truck, and I’m scrambling after him.

Cole opens the door for me, and I’m hit with loud music, chattering, and pool balls cracking together. It looks just as most pubs and alehouses look. Full of sports memorabilia, too many TVs, an enormous bar, and a shit ton of blue-collar men.

“Two?” the hostess asks when we reach her.

She’s an older woman with grey hair pulled back in a low ponytail.

“Yes, Ma’am,” Cole says.

We’re led to a small booth that fits only two. She tells us the waiter will be over soon, leaves the menus, and goes back to her podium.

“You come here often?” I ask.

Cole shrugs. “Every now and again. Food is great. Pool is fun. But I won’t come here with Chris anymore.”

I nod, refusing to tell him how much that upsets me. He has to be careful where he goes with his son. What is happening to Chris?

The waiter comes by and takes our drink and food orders. We both get a beer and steak, but I get double sweet potato fries while Cole gets mashed potatoes and broccoli.

“You really going to make me play pool?” I ask when I hear a booming cheer after a loud crack.

He grins, knocking the breath out of me with how gorgeous it is. His eyes are shining so damn brightly. “Sure am. We’re celebrating.”

“Celebrating by embarrassing me?” I question.

“You have no reason to be embarrassed in front of me, Bry. Not a damn one.” When our beers are brought to the table, we each take a long sip, and Cole says, “So, tell me about the job.”

I half expected him to make a comment about him seeing me naked after saying I don’t need to be embarrassed in front of him. When he doesn’t, I’m almost shocked. I’m also wondering if I made up that entire night in my head. He hasn’t done anything to show me he remembers it. Hasn’t mentioned it. Was he that drunk? Was I? Am I losing my mind over here?

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