Page 21 of Promise Kept

But also in a relationship together.

Then that would ease all the tension…

“I’m fine,” Larissa says. “Ellis brought me home. He saved me. He beat up a guy for me!”

The woman looks back at me. “Ellis. Why do I know your name?”

“One of my father’s best friends,” Larissa says in a drunk whisper.

Drunk whispering is normal talking.

“We were all having a drink or two for the obvious reason,” I say. “And Larissa showed up. If I’m being honest, she stumbled in…”

“Love, don’t be mad at me,” Larissa says.

“Love?” I ask.

“That’s my name,” the woman says. “I’m Larissa’s best friend.”

I nod.

I try to put her name and face to any kind of memory I have.

Nothing pops up.

It’s just memories of Larissa…

Love pushes Larissa toward the counter in the kitchen.

“You stay put,” she says.

Love sets her sights on me.

She closes in, her eyes judging me like crazy.

Not that I give a damn.

“You saved her,” Love whispers.

“From herself, yes,” I respond. “I didn’t know what else to do. Brought her back here and…”

“You’re the famous Ellis.”

“Famous?” I ask.

Love smirks. “Heard a lot about you.”

Love proceeds to eye fuck me without trying to hide it.

Her eyes scanning down and right back up.

She backs up a few steps. “I can take it from here. Unless you want to stick around.”

“As long as she’s safe. I made a promise to…”

I choke on the words.

“I’ll see you around, Ellis!” Larissa calls out. “Thanks for helping me tonight!”

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