Page 10 of Defensive Zone

“Where did you go? I just called your name like five times.”

“Sorry, I spaced out.”

Understatement of the century.

She gives me a pointed look, calling me out on my bullshit without having to say the words. Her eyes flick to Zach as she asks, “How close are you two?”

“He’s been my best friend since we were six years old.”

She hums but doesn’t say anything. She takes a dainty sip of her wine, and I try to take a subtle glance over my shoulder. The couple are still with Zach, flirting up a storm. Zach angled his body toward them invitingly, spreading his legs so one bare knee is next to hers where she’s sitting on the stool, and the guy is able to stand between them as well. He’s interested. Really interested. The couple couldn’t make it any more obvious that they want Zach to be the tasty filling in their bedroom sandwich, and I fucking hate that I want to go over there and ruin it all for him.

The sound of an empty glass clinking against the tabletop snaps my attention back. Raegan gives me a sad smile, collecting her purse and hooking it on her shoulder.

“I think I’m going to call it a night.”

I open my mouth to argue, but I can’t. I have nothing to say to defend my behavior. I’ve been lousy company. She seems like a really nice woman, and here I am, wanting to stomp my foot on the floor in a childish tantrum over my best friend flirting with someone—or should I saysomeones—else.

Scrunching up my nose slightly, I offer her what I can only hope is an apologetic smile. “I’m sorry, my mind is elsewhere tonight. Maybe we could get together back in Denver? Dinner maybe? My treat.”

“Sure, that would be nice. You can make it up to me back in the city.”

We exchange numbers and promise to see each other. She leans over and presses a kiss to my cheek. “See you around, Carter.”

She waves her fingers at Zach as she passes. He waves his hand in return, then shoots me a concerned look. I shake my head, picking up my drink and downing what’s left of it before standing up. I’m not going to ruin his night. I’ll head back to the house, maybe watch a movie, and question why I’m feeling so fucking… out of sorts.

“I’m going to take off,” I tell Zach once I reach the bar, thumbing over my shoulder toward the exit.

“I’ll come with you.” Zach goes to stand without hesitation, but I place my hand on his shoulder, pushing him back down.

“No, no. You stay.” I look at the couple. Damn, they are both really hot. She’s got long blonde hair tied up in a high ponytail. Petite, great tits, and a tiny waist. He’s hot too, with classically handsome features. I wouldn’t be surprised if I’d seen themboth on a billboard, making some plain-as-fuck underwear look irresistible. “Enjoy your night.”

But to my surprise, Zach shakes off my hand and stands up.

“It was really nice to meet you both,” he says to the couple.

“Likewise,” she purrs, placing her small hand on his forearm and giving it a gentle squeeze.

“If you’re ever in Nashville, give us a call.” Hot Guy smiles, slipping a card into Zach’s palm. “It would be really good to hang out sometime.”

Yeah, I’ll bet.

My jaw snaps shut as I glare at where his hand lingers on Zach’s for a moment longer than necessary.

“Have a nice night.” I force a tight smile and head out of the restaurant without checking if Zach’s following. Why am I so agitated over this? The only reason he was talking to them was because I was chatting with Raegan.

Fuck, I’m such a shit friend. Cockblocking him because I’m getting a little jealous.

I don’t realize how far ahead I’ve walked until I hear Zach calling from behind as he jogs to catch up with me.

“Carter, wait up.”

I slow my steps and run a hand through my hair, letting out a shaky exhale. There’s concern etched into Zach’s features as he studies me.

“What happened back there? I thought you and Raegan were getting along well?”

I have no idea…

“Headache.” I hate how easily the lie slips out. “We agreed to see each other when we’re back in Denver.”

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