Page 3 of Love Shots

CHAPTER TWO

Five years had apparently been enough time for Summer to forget just how crazy Teddy McCallen made her. He’d always been a moody son of a bitch, that was for sure. A good-looking one at that. But over the years, just like his looks, his broody nature had clearly matured. He was now a ridiculously sexy, six-foot-four ball of rage. And she kind of liked it.

So, so healthy, Summer.

Dropping off the empty glasses she’d collected at the end of the bar, she snuck another look at the man in question. The easy charm he offered each customer was deceptive. If they hung around for just another second, they’d see Teddy’s mask drop almost instantly. She saw it though. She’d always seen it. Summer figured that was why he always treated her differently. Although, right about now, she was starting to wish he didn’t. She could really go for some of that fake friendly, if it meant that smile was directed her way.

It had been a rough year, but she knew she needed to try and focus on the positive. At least she had a place to stay now. That was something. She would never take for granted hot showers and clean clothes ever again.

Showing up at Teddy’s the other night hadn’t been her finest hour. She was well aware of what a hot mess she was. But at least now she was a clean, semi-presentable hot mess. And she was determined to try to not piss him off during her first shift at Mickey’s.

“Summer. Long time no see.” A familiar, deep voice croaked from behind her.

Spinning on her heel, she visibly cringed at the sight. Colton. Her ex. Yet another bad decision she’d made over ten years ago. Great. That was the thing about small towns, exes were always sneaking up on you and reminding you of what a dumbass you used to be.

He looked just as she remembered him. Jet-black hair that was just a little bit too long, piercing dark brown eyes, and enough stubble to be considered the start of a beard. Although he was tall, he’d always been on the lean side. That hadn’t changed either.

“Uh, hi, Colt.” She smiled and hoped like hell it didn’t look as forced as it felt. “How you doing?”

“Doing good, babe. What ... no hug?” Colton opened his arms expectantly while she internally screamed.

Fuck my life.

She stepped into his arms and gave him the world’s quickest, most awkward hug before retreating back toward the bar counter.

“Well, I better get back to work. It was good seeing you.” She spun in the other direction before she’d even finished the sentence. But he didn’t let her get very far. She felt his hand wrap around her upper arm, forcing her to a stop, holding her in place. Goddamnit. Hadn’t she been manhandled enough already? Now she was pissed. Screw being friendly.

“Get your hands off me, Colt. Now.” She fumed as she turned to face him.

Luckily, the man was smart enough to drop his hand, but he didn’t back away.

“I didn’t mean to frighten you, Summer. Come on. It’s me. Me! I’ve done a lot more than grab your arm if I remember correctly, babe.” The dirty smirk he gave her made her stomach roil.

Stupid, goddamn small towns.

“I’m not your babe, Colt. And I suggest in the future, you don’t go around grabbing women in bars unless you’re looking for a punch to the throat.”

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