Page 158 of Chasing Sparks

“Good thing I’m not lying. Ready to leave?” Hey, I’m just being a supportive friend here.

Mina wags her finger at me. “You think you’re slick, don’t you?”

“Not at all, actually.”

“Well, we can leave as soon as you tell Ash your news.”

I tip my head back and groan. “You suck.”

Braden appears at our side, grasping Mina by the elbow. “Hey, I need a favor.”

“Anything.” Mina’s voice is even, but I see her cheeks flush from Braden’s touch.

Actually, I think this is the first time Braden has managed more than some casual pleasantries to Mina. Per Ash, Braden has a shy streak, too.

Seems a few beers have loosened his tongue. Hell, I might be watching love unfold in front of my face.

I could use a good romance right now, especially considering the state ofmylove life.

“See that woman?” Braden swings his gaze across the room. “She’s been hanging on me all evening. Keep me company in the greenhouse?”

I raise my brows and bite back a smirk.

Subtle, Braden.

Still, I’m glad he’s giving my friend a chance. She’s an amazing woman.

If he hurts her, I’ll kill him.

Braden smiles at me, nodding toward the kitchen. “Ash is inside. I know he’s waiting for you.”

“Great.” I flash a wide grin.

Is it fake? One hundred percent, but so is Braden’s claim.

I highly doubt Ash is waiting for me, but I might as well get it over with before the night gets any darker and the partygoers fall further into their cups.

I stroll into the kitchen, my feet heavier with every step as I clutch Ash’s present in my arms.

Ash glances up from where he’s leaning against the counter, a whiskey glass in his hand. His lips curve into a faint smile as he sees me. “You came.”

“Well, you invited me. Happy Birthday.” I thrust Ash’s gift into his hands. “I didn’t think it would arrive on time.”

“Thank you.” He runs a hand along the edge of the box, his thumb lingering on the ribbon for a moment before setting it aside, unopened, on the counter.

“Aren’t you going to open it?”

“Truth is, Ori, you’re all I wanted for my birthday. The rest is gravy.”

His sweet words take direct aim at my heart, but my armor is intact and ready. It has to be; the last time I let myself believe in his promises, Lucille walked in and reminded me where I stand—on the outside, looking in.

“Or in this case, whiskey.”

Ash narrows his gaze. “What?”

“Open your gift. I ordered it especially for you. ForRum & Ruin.”

Ash tears into the wrapping paper, his eyes widening as he pulls out the sleek, dark glass bottle. The custom label catches the light, withRum & Ruin Reserveembossed in bold, elegant lettering over a minimalist design. The deep amber liquid gleams inside. He turns the bottle over, studying it.

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