Page 23 of I Did Before I Do

It could be fun. I let my mind wander for a moment. I could imagine him being a pretty good kisser but way better with his fingers. And incredible when it came to actually fucking.

He also looked like he’d be happy to go down on a woman. That was a nice thought.

Kenzie’s voice snapped me back to reality. How long had she been talking?

I turned my head, blinking at her. “Wait, what?”

She tilted her head, then turned, following the direction I’d been looking. Of course, she knew immediately. Ryker.

“Syd, don’t,” she said quietly.

No promises.

“Look, I’m not going to fall in love with him.” I smiled, squeezing her shoulder gently. “Don’t worry about me, Kenzie. I’m a big girl. And I already had my life ruined by a guy once. I know better now.”

She nodded, squeezing my shoulder in return. “Okay. Anyway, I was saying that you should let me and Lora come over one night this week. We can help you get your apartment settled, make it look nice. And if you’re looking for any furniture, let us know.”

I nodded. “Yeah, I could use some stuff. A lot of my furniture was Mark’s. So, you know, I’m sleeping on a mattress on the floor, and I don’t have a couch. I sure do have a lot of tables, though.”

Lora laughed. “We’ll get Bradley and the guys to keep an eye out for stuff. And if you need any heavy lifting done, I’ll bring him. Benny can probably come help, too?”

Kenzie nodded. “Yeah. We’ll grab a few of the guys and get everything set up for you.”

What had I done to deserve such wonderful friends?

I smiled, nodding. “I’ll order pizza for everybody. And pick up some drinks for when we’re done. Wine and beer?”

“Wine and beer!” Kenzie nodded. “That sounds great.”

I started to reply but was cut off by a loud yawn. I glanced at my phone. Almost eleven already. “Ah, shit. We probably ought to wrap up soon. We all have to work tomorrow.”

“Yeah.” Lora nodded. She and Kenzie always opened Bakeology, so they definitely had an early morning. We paid our tabs, splitting the appetizers between ourselves, and headed out together.

Outside the door, we exchanged hugs. I held Kenzie just a few seconds longer, letting go and grabbing for my purse to find my keys.

My purse.

Dammit.

“Shit—I gotta go back in.” I shook my head. “I left my purse on the bar after we paid.”

Kenzie nodded. “Do you want us to wait for you?”

“No, no. I’m good. I’ll just be a second.” I smiled. “You two get home safe, okay? Take care.”

“Good night!” Lora waved. She and Kenzie turned, going toward their cars.

I pulled the door to The Republic back open and went inside.

And leaped back, gasping.

I hadn’t even noticed somebody coming toward the door when I opened it. Which was shocking, considering that it was Ryker.

He leaped back, too. My purse hung from one hand, the strap held tightly in his fist.

I pressed one hand to my chest, letting out a nervous laugh. “Wow,” I said, shaking my head. “Wow. Hey, that doesn’t really go with your outfit.”

He smiled. “Should I change, then?”

---