Page 141 of The Wayward Son

“And by handle it, you mean do nothing?”

He pointed at her. “I’m serious.”

She grabbed his finger, then pulled him close and kissed his cheek. “I’ll stay out of it.”

“Thank you.” He stepped away from her and wiped his cheek where she’d kissed him.

“Did you just wipe off my kiss?”

He smiled. “Get out of here and leave me alone to wallow.”

“Have you had breakfast?”

He nodded toward his coffee cup.

“That’s not breakfast. I was thinking of running into town. Would a couple of bear claws help?”

“How about a couple of lemon Danish?”

She smiled. “I’ll be back soon.”

“Say hi to Xander for me.”

“I will.”

“When is he collecting on his bet?”

She shrugged. “I don’t know yet. We haven’t talked about it.”

He smiled. “See, the O’Connell problem extends to you, too.”

“Whatever. Call Jade.”

Sawyer watched Sage walk away, then returned to the picnic table and took out his phone. He dialed J.T.’s number.

“What’s up, brother?”

Sawyer sighed. “Are you doing anything tonight?”

“No. Why?”

“Would you like to go into town with me? Have a couple of beers. Play some darts. Actually, pool. I feel like smashing some balls around.”

“You know you’re supposed to use finesse in pool?”

“Well then, that means you’ll probably win. What do you say? Just you and me. No sisters, wives, or best friends.”

“Sounds good. Do you want to tell me why you feel the need to smash balls around?”

“I’ll tell you later.”

“Okay. Seven-thirty?”

“Seven-thirty it is.”

“Isn’t Jade off tonight?”

“Yes.”

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