Page 45 of Bourbon and Lies

“Laney.” Marla nods. It’s pretty clear that Marla isn’t my biggest fan, but it’s a step in the right direction since she didn’t tell me I couldn’t have a drink or that I had to leave.

I load up a small plate and find a seat in between two women, who smile as I approach, and ask if I can squeeze in. As soon asI sit, of course, my phone buzzes in my bag. I try to ignore it, but then start to worry if it’s something important. Not many people have this number—Hadley, Ace, and Agent Harper. Oh, and now Grant.

“Welcome everybody. I’m so excited everyone wanted to read this week's novella. I really enjoyed it, but the writing felt rushed...” Prue starts, but I quickly tune it out, overthinking if I should check my phone when it buzzes again.

The brunette with the long curly hair to my right looks at me when it buzzes for the fourth time. “Are you going to get that? It’s kind of distracting,” she whispers.Is it really that distracting?

I can’t help but smile when I see who it’s from.

COWBOY

How’s your foot?

LANEY

My foot is fine, but I’m in the middle of book club getting the stink eye from a leggy brunette for not paying attention.

COWBOY

Curly hair?

LANEY

Yes.

COWBOY

Nose ring?

LANEY

Yes. One of your exes?

COWBOY

She’s tried.

LANEY

Not your type?

COWBOY

Depends. Jealous?

LANEY

Are you flirting with me, cowboy?

COWBOY

Depends.

LANEY

On?

COWBOY

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