Page 49 of Reckless Storm
“No problem. Are you sure you’re okay?”
“Never better. Enjoy your night.”
I wave with a smile before releasing a held breath as soon as I turn away.What the hell just happened?
He followed me into the bathroom?Jesus.
Making my way back to Keeley, I bump shoulders with a few dancers as my mind whirs, apologizing when it snaps me back to reality.
It doesn’t take long for me to find Keeley, but she’s talking to Thomas, so I motion to the garden when I get her attention, letting her know I’ll meet her out there.
With the smile still locked on my face, I sashay toward the exit, only stopping when the cool night air slaps me in the face, and a breath fills my lungs.
Throwing my head back, I stare at the stars, taking it all in until the door slams behind me and I stiffen before slowly turning around.
“What happened?” Reed asks, his expression ashen.
“What?” My pounding heart jolts at the sound of his voice and I instantly relax.
“Don’t mess with me, Hayley. I know something’s wrong.”
My shoulders drop, a sigh rushing from my chest. “I’m fine, I promise. A guy got a little handsy and it pissed me off. But it’s nothing I can’t handle, and he won’t do it again.”
“Who?” Reed’s fists clench as he stands tall. And it might be the adrenaline coursing through me, but I burst out laughing.
“It doesn’t matter.” I survey the garden and when I don’t recognise anyone, I grab Reed’s hand, pulling him into a hug. “Thank you for coming to my rescue.Again. I can always count on you.”
“I haven’t done anything. Tell me who it was.” His teeth clench and my smile widens.
“You’ve done plenty. But will you stay with me for a bit?” My voice softens and I almost curse myself when the deep furrow between Reed’s brows doubles in size. “I’mfine,” I reassure him. “I just want to hang out.”
“Okay.” He blows out a breath, clearly still torn but not wanting to leave me alone. “I’m allowed to worry.”
“You’re allowed to do what you want, Reed. But I’ll repeat, I’m fine.”
Reed’s eyes widen before he grins suddenly, his expression morphing into one of intrigue. “I can do what I want?”
“Yep.”
“Thanks. Thatwillput my mind at ease.”
“Huh?” I frown, a part of me wondering if I just set myself up. “How so?”
“Because now, you’re coming home with me.”
“I’m what?”Myeyes widen now as my jaw drops and I’m sure it’d be comical if roles were reversed.
“You heard me.” He laughs victoriously.
“Are you pussy blocking me again, Reed? After I told you how desperate I was?”
“Yep.” He pops thep, folding his arms across his hard chest.
“Harsh.”
“Quite the opposite, in fact. I’m looking after you.”
“You know this isn’t my first rodeo. I’ve had one-night stands before. I’m more than capable—”
