Page 22 of Heron's Flame

“The whiskey.”

“You got it.” He poured two generous shots, sliding one toward me. “Bottoms up.”

I lifted the glass and brought it to my lips, tossing back the liquor as I hissed. They didn’t keep the cheap stuff around here.It burned all the way down and settled with a warm plop in my stomach. Instant heat spread through my veins. I relaxed on the seat, knowing I had to decline another shot before I became a puddle on the floor. It didn’t take much to knock me on my ass.

“Another?”

I shook my head.

“I will.” He winked. “To you, my Spark, for bringing light and warmth into my life.”

How sweet.

Heron swallowed his shot, pushed the glasses aside, and returned the whiskey to the shelf. “I should walk you to your room. Lookin’ a little dazed and sleepy, Love.”

I felt warm and sleepy. Happy. It was wonderful.

“Okay.” I might have hiccupped afterward.

Heron laughed. “Come on.”

He stayed close during the walk, tucking me against his side as we made our way down the hall, up the stairs, and to my door. I pulled out my key and unlocked it when we reached my room.

“I want to invite you inside.” Wow. That was bold.

“I’d love to accept, but tonight isn’t the night, my Spark.” He pressed a gentle kiss on my forehead. “Sweet dreams.”

“Okay. Goodnight.”

“Lock the door behind you. Get some rest, Rebel.”

He didn’t look like he wanted to leave me. That boosted my confidence.

I blew him a kiss and shut the door, turning the lock. As I padded across the floor, I noticed his shadow beneath the door. It didn’t move. I placed my purse and keys on the dresser before kicking off my shoes.

When I fell on the bed and undressed, I noticed he left.

“Goodnight, Manu.”

The following day, after breakfast, I found pink carnations outside my door. With a gasp, I picked up the bouquet andbrought it into my room, placing the glass vase on the little table inside. Flowers may not win every woman’s heart, but knowing he remembered from nothing more than a glance at my nails sure made it hard not to fall for him.

Chapter 7 Heron

“How was the date?” Hawk asked, dropping beside me in church.

Talon sat in the empty seat on my right. “You sure got back late.”

How the fuck did they know what time I brought Rebel home? No one was awake.

“Not sure it’s your business,” I replied, kicking back in my seat. Crow wasn’t here, but he would arrive and start church soon.

“Come on. Don’t hold out on us,” Hawk urged.

“I promised my ol’ lady I’d ask,” Talon added.

“Callie and Gail will probably talk to Rebel, so I don’t have to say shit.”

Hawk snorted. “Oh, they’ll talk.”

---