Page 13 of Melody

“That’s true. But Ihavebeen called an asshole a significant number of times throughout my life—and most of the time, it’s been a fair assessment.”

Scarlett all but frowned. “Well, I haven’t seen you act like an asshole yet—and, believe me, I’ve known some big ones.” Like her ex, for instance. “Besides, didn’t you know we don’t serve assholes here?”

Kyle chuckled. “Oh, yes, you do. I can personally vouch for that—but maybe those assholes have been hiding their true nature.”

A customer standing behind Kyle glared at Scarlett, indicating that she was thirsty too and didn’t much appreciate the time-wasting banter, even though she probably couldn’t hear what they were actually saying. “Do you mind if I get the order of the woman behind you really fast?”

“No. Go for it.” Before Scarlett could address the woman, he added, “I think that earns me a few non-asshole points.”

“Itdoes.” Still grinning, she raised her voice, asking the woman, “What can I get for you?”

“I need four cherry bombs.”

Instead of waiting for one of the cocktail servers, the woman had come directly to the counter—which was fine. That meant Scarlett would get the entire tip—if this woman bothered. If the scowl on her face was any indication, Scarlett would be lucky to keep the change. In addition, this was a drink she’d only ever made once before—so she had to look it up. But, minutes later, she placed four red drinks on the counter and took the woman’s money.

And the womanhadn’tstiffed her.

Turning her attention back to Kyle, Scarlett said, “Did that give you enough time to make up your mind?”

His expression looked almost serious, but there was a light dancing in his eyes. “I’d made up my mind before I even sat down.”

Were they still flirting…or was he about to say something unexpected? Until then, she was going to keep up the light banter. “Well, why didn’t you say so?”

“I think we should go on a date.”

Wow. Okay. Yeah…that haddefinitelybeen unexpected. Still, she could take it in stride. “Really? What makes you think that?”

“Well, every time I sit down here, we have some interesting conversations. I’d like to see if we could sustain it for an hour or two.”

No…she was bad at picking men. Even though Kyle seemed cute and sweet and hot, fun to be around andnotan asshole, despite his earlier warning, she knew it could all be an act. All guys put on their best faces when they were trying to win a woman’s heart. Once he’d made that conquest, he would show his true colors.

Kyle would be no different. And she wanted to remember him just as he was right now: almost perfect.

“I think we’ll have to do it here. I don’t know if I’m allowed to date customers.”

His laugh was boisterous and loud, even over the music. “If that’s true, you’ll have to scratch most of Silver City off your list.”

“Look, Kyle, you’re a nice guy—and I do love chatting with you. But I don’t think it’s a good idea.”

She felt relief as she noticed that her words hadn’t hurt him. Not a bit. “Maybe not—but I’m going to ask you again. Not today but I will.”

Hopefully, another woman would catch his eye and then Scarlett wouldn’t have to fight to resist him. But the thought ofhim bringing another female to the bar made something ugly wriggle around inside her.

Was that a bit of jealousy?

That was stupid. She barely knew him—and she had no claim to the man. Even less now that she’d turned down a date.

“As long as you’re not an asshole about it.” With a wink and a grin, she asked, “So what’ll it be?”

Kyle, a faint smile still turning up the corners of his mouth, shook his head…and then ordered a beer.

As she poured it into a glass, she reminded herself that it was for the best.

CHAPTER 6

For the first time in a long time, Kyle felt like Thanksgiving had almost lived up to its promise—because it seemed like he finally had a few things to be grateful for. Although the holiday at his mother’s had been stiff and difficult, it was better than it had been the year before when Liam’s death was fresh.

And even though Kyle hoped it was a sign of a smoother relationship with his mom in the future, that wasn’t what had him feeling gratitude.

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