Page 128 of A Dash of You

“It’s your only retirement party, lovely.” Her husband plants a big kiss on her. “Enjoy it.”

“Damn. That is true!”

We all laugh, and Lana hands me a shot. “Drink up, buttercup.”

“What is it?”

Lana scoffs. “You’re always doubting me. It’s something you’ll like.”

I down the shot. “Not bad. I do like it.”

“See. Told ya. Want another?”

“I better not. I’m meeting Logan on the balcony.” The mention of him causes my cheeks to warm. I suppose we’re still on the honeymoon stage, but he still gives me butterflies so easily and I never want to lose that feeling.

“Say no more. I get it. Well, kind of, not that I’ve ever had a man affect me the way Logan does you.” There’s a hint of sadness in her voice.

“Lana. You’ll find the right guy.”

“It’s not even that. Honestly, I just hate attracting all the wrong ones.”

Fair enough. Lana drew the attention of the biggest pieces of shits. Not that I’ve seen a lot of her since high school, but I knew the ones she dated. And let’s not forget Mark.

“Maybe you should start holding yourself on a higher pedestal.”

She shrugs. “Maybe.”

“Hey. You going to be okay here?”

“Yeah, sure. I’ll get an Uber or something. The night is young.”

I shoot her a wary glance.

“What? I’ll be fine. It’s Sunlight Creek. Nothing ever happens here.”

“I don’t know about that.”

Something over my shoulder catches my best friend’s attention and I follow her gaze. Crew sits drinking a beer with an arm wrapped around a random woman.

Lana shakes her head. “I feel sorry for her. Why is he even here?

“Bored, maybe?” I’m not exactly sure I know the answer to her question, but her mood for sure changes when Crew’s around and it’s not for the better.

If we’re all going to be around each other, I’d like them to get along.

“Just don’t take any rides from any strangers.”

“Duh. Besides, I don’t think there are any creeps at Shelby and Frank’s retirement party.”

Maybe. But I take another glance at Crew, who is watching us with deep curiosity. That look isn't intended for me.

At least I feel better knowing he’s here. Regardless of how much they disdain each other, Crew isn’t the type of man to let anything bad happen to Lana.

I plant a sisterly kiss on her cheek and hug Shelby goodbye, congratulating her and her husband before dipping out.

The huge smile was clear because the muscles in my face ache. But before meeting the love of my life, I have to make a quick stop.

The police station comes into view. Tonight is the night I file a report on Mark. That asshole will get what he deserves. It’s not something I can blow off any longer. He’s still walking around town easily getting off, and it makes my stomach turn.

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