Page 14 of Forgot to Tell You Something

“Is she going to hurl?” Dan questions, nodding in their direction.

“Probably. Owen went with her, so I guess he’ll take care of her.” I bite my lip, swallowing back my disappointment. Over the years, Stefani has had her pick of all the eligible men that floated our way, and I never begrudged her one. This is the first time I’ve wanted to keep the man all for myself. And maybe, just maybe, Owen feels nothing for Stefani beyond sober concern.

“Stefani doesn’t feel like coming back inside,” Owen states to my left, making me jump. For such a Goliath, the man sure is nimble.

“That’s my cue. Hey Dan, what do I owe you?” I ask, pulling out my wallet.

Owen places his hand over mine. “I’m going to take her home.”

Well, fuck my life. So much for the sober concern theory. “You don’t have to do that—”

“She asked if I would. She said that you love this band, and didn’t want to ruin your evening.”

Quite the stench coming off that load of crap.

Stefani ruined my night when she set her sights on Owen. There’s no salvaging it now. Besides, I’m not one to get into a catfight over a man. Particularly not when I’m certain to lose.

I huff out a sigh and force a grin. “Are you okay to drive?”

He nods, that dimpled smile once again upending my ability to think. “I’m fine.”

“Okay. Get home safe.”

“No deal. You may like this band, but I came in to get you. I’m giving you a ride home, too.”

Nothing beats being a third wheel. “I have my car. But I appreciate you getting Stefani home safely.”

That is Owen’s cue to leave. I’ve offered the white flag of surrender. He’s free to go.

Only he doesn’t. “I don’t want to leave you here alone.”

Ah, there’s the sober concern. “I’ll be fine. Wicked Chucks is my second home. Besides, Dan will keep an eye on me.”

My bartender buddy nods. “Always. She’s safe with me.”

“Are you sure?” Owen presses, his hand rubbing my back.

Of nothing. “I’m positive. Thank you for the offer. It was nice meeting you.”

He leans in, his breath hot against my ear. “I need your number, Tally.”

“My number? Oh, sure, in case something happens.”

Owen pulls out his phone, a lopsided grin decorating his face. “I need it for tomorrow night, Darlin.”

For a second, my mind blanks, and then I remember. The Hedgecore concert. “I can meet you here if that’s easier.”

“It’s not easier. Do you not want to give me your number?”

I chuckle and rattle off the digits. I’m being silly. It makes sense that Owen needs my number. What if he decides he’d rather take a tall, willowy blonde to the show? “I’m really looking forward to seeing Hedgecore. Thank you.” I stand up, holding out my arms for a hug.

Hey, friends hug.

Owen pulls me against him, but in an unexpected move, he tips up my chin, pressing his lips against mine. It’s short and sweet and yet lights up every nerve ending in my body. “I’m really looking forward to seeing you. Goodnight, Tally.”

I watch him leave before spinning around to face Dan, releasing a loud groan as I settle my head on the bar.

“What’s your issue?”

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