Page 55 of Cody

I gave him a mock glare. “You know what I mean.”

We exited the truck, and he walked around to my side. “I’m working on it, and that’s all I’m going to say on the subject.” He winked.

Hmm, interesting. Max would be a good catch for someone. He was handsome, kind, reliable, and easy-going. Then my mind drifted to Lincoln, wondering if he was involved with anyone. Men their age were usually settled down with families by now. Maybe their years serving their country had taken precedence.

We entered the building, and I was glad to see that it wasn’t clouded with cigarette and cigar smoke. It would have been back in the day when members were allowed to smoke inside. Now the atmosphere was clear, and the only smells were of perfume and cologne. The overhead fans kept the air circulating so it wasn’t overpowering. My gaze took everything in, and yes, I was looking for Cody, while dreading seeing him at the same time.

The bar was full of old-timers who were laughing more than drinking, sharing stories of good times. Several couples were clinging to one another on the dance floor, moving slowly to the music that was filtering through the speakers. Tables were full, and more than one person greeted us as Max led us through the room to the dance floor.

“I feel like dancing,” he explained, turning to face me when we reached the planked square designated for dancing. He didn’t give me a choice; he took my hand in his and pulled me close to his body.

I frowned, but didn’t protest, a little uncomfortable at how close we were. I hoped that Max wasn’t about to ruin our friendship by making a move I’d have to shoot down, because I really liked him as a friend. I glanced up at him with worry. He met my eyes with warm amusement. Nope. There was no desire staring down at me. Just a smile I’d say was a little on the cocky side.

I decided to ignore the warning vibes I was receiving and said, “I love this song.” It was “The Lady in Red” by Chris De Burgh.

“It’s a good song to slow dance to,” Max acknowledged, looking at something over my shoulder. “A song for lovers.” His eyes returned to mine.

That was it! Max was up to something, and I was afraid. I didn’t want to hurt his feelings, but I needed to remind him that we were friends and going to stay that way. “Max—” That was as far as I got, because all of a sudden and without warning, Max was kissing me. I stiffened with shock, unable to move, until his hand slid down to my bottom and gave it a squeeze.

I pushed away as much as his arms would allow. “What the hell, Max! What—”

“Shh.”

Had he just shushed me? “What are you doing?”

His gaze was focused on something behind me. “Trying to open someone’s eyes up to the fact that you’re the best thing that’s happened to him.”

I frowned. “What?”

“Oh, shit. This is going to hurt,” he muttered beneath his breath, his eyes dropping down to mine.

I started to turn to see what he was looking at as he gently pushed me aside. I barely had time to acknowledge Cody stepping into view before he pulled back his arm and punched Max square in the face. The force sent Max slamming into the wall.

“Cody!” I stared at him in disbelief. “What... are... you... doing?”

I barely had time to notice the smirk on Max’s face before Cody grabbed my hand and dragged me out of the hall.

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