Page 5 of Flawless Lyric

Before sitting down, I head into the kitchen to wash my hands. Am I stalling? Maybe. But if I’ve learned one thing today, running into Lyric at my childhood home wasn’t just a coincidence. Why, might you ask? There is no such thing as coincidence.

People come into our lives for a reason.

“Micah’s here,” Lanie practically screams. And Lyric’s gaze meets mine.

Since I’ve already filled my plate, I try maneuvering my tall frame one leg at a time onto the picnic bench. Not the most comfortable, but since it’s next to a gorgeous woman, I won’t complain.

“Did you miss me, Lanie?” I wink at my sister and then sink my teeth into the juicy burger. Never realizing how famished I was. “My compliments to the cook. This meat is so moist and delicious.”

“Oh my God. Just stop,” Maya giggles. And when I peer over to my right, I swear Lyric blushes.

I’m back, beautiful.

* * *

LYRIC

I can’t believehe just used the most disliked word in the English language.Moist.Well, maybe not for all of us but for some of us. Mainly me. I choose to ignore him because isn’t that what we do to a naughty child? Absolutely. If we scold and fuel the fire, it just escalates from there.

Apparently, his family chooses to do the same. Either that or they’re afraid to play along since I’m here today.

I love how they don’t miss a beat and the conversation continues. I’m all ears as Micah does his best to fill them in on Rebel Riot’s last tour. Novalee would die to hear all about what goes on backstage of a famous heavy metal band. Oh well. I’m thankful that she’s willing to leave one of her idols to rescue a friend in need.

While they’re talking, I’m very much aware that’s he’s inching closer and closer, until his bare thigh touches mine and his heat scorches me. Reminding me of how his body felt wedged with mine.

“Lyric, you’re looking a little flushed. Why don’t we finish eating inside where it’s nice and cool?” Ruth is always so thoughtful and sweet.

“Thanks, but I’m fine. My decision to stay up last night into the wee hours of the morning is finally catching up with me.” Hopefully she gets the hint that I won’t be staying long.

Micah turns to me and says, “It sounds like you must have had a wonderful time last night.”

Open mouth, insert foot. It’s something I do quite often.

They’re all waiting for my answer as Micah’s gaze focuses on my lips. Making me hyperaware of where they’ve been.

“I met up with some friends for dinner and a few drinks. The time just flew by.” It’s the truth. I just declined to elaborate that they all left and I sat at the bar to have one more. I now realize that was a bad decision on my part.

Frank chuckles and adds, “I bet you waited until after midnight so you could have a celebratory drink.” I like Frank. He’s so laid back and down to earth.

“You’d be correct. Meeting up with the girls was fun but I wasn’t ready to go home.” I’m suddenly parched. I pray someone changes the subject soon.

“Did you go someplace local or out of town?” I should have known that Micah wouldn’t let it go.

I fidget for a split second and then chime in. “We met up at the Red Eagle Tavern. The cosmos are to die for, and the crab is exquisite.”

“Wow, what a coincidence,” Micah says. “I was there with some friends around the same time.” Of course, I can’t call him out because this is supposed to be the first time we’ve met.

“Who wants some corn?” I’m thankful when Asher interrupts and places the plate in front of us. Smells divine, but I can’t eat another bite.

“I’ll be the taste tester.” Frank grabs a hot ear, adds more butter and salt, and sinks his teeth into the cob. His eyes roll and everyone at the table laughs.

“Delicious, my boy, but how can you really mess it up when it’s your mother’s secret recipe? All you needed to do was baste and turn.” Frank winks at Asher and I get the feeling the man is a real jokester.

While everyone’s eating, this would be a great time for me to make my escape. But before I do, I need to find the restroom.

I politely excuse myself, and Ruth and Lanie both get up to show me where the restroom is. Micah stops them.

“Sit. I need to wash my hands. I’ll be happy to show her.” Inwardly, I groan because he’s the last person I want to show me anything. Ever again.

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