Page 17 of Bella and Her Beast
“I hope she sleeps it off. Can you give her my number?” He hands me a piece of paper with his digits written.
“Sure. I’ll leave it on her nightstand along with two aspirin and a bottle of water. See you later.” I go outside and see a blacked out Range Rover waiting for me and my friend leaning out the window calling my name.
“Bella, Bella, look. He has a Range Rover. The one you want,” she says.
I love my friend, but she’s making this evening even more awkward than it should be. I climb in and close the door.
“Just head back to I-10 and I’ll direct you on how to get to her place,” I say, shaking my head.
Greyson pulls off and we head toward Joy’s place, so I can put her to bed and avoid any further embarrassment.
* * *
Greyson
In all mysearches around the states since I was eighteen, I have never once had to include a best friend in my romantic pursuit. This evening has been a lengthy line of firsts. I’ve never been nervous before a date, I’ve never given a valued treasure as a gift, I’ve never had to drag a friend to her bedroom because she wanted to sit and talk about why she thinks Bella is a great catch.
I could tell Joy was making Bella feel uncomfortable. Even my wolf sensed it. But luckily, he likes her, too.
After we got Joy settled and tucked in her bed, Bella locked the door and we traveled back to the lounge so she can pick up her car.
“Thank you, Greyson. I’m sorry Joy was a bit out of hand. Not sure what came over her.”
“I don’t want to be nosy, but did you guys drink before you made it to the club?”
“Yeah, just a couple of margaritas and a shot or two. Oh, I forgot about those. It was so early when we got ready, I didn’t think it would still have an effect.”
“Either that or you hold your liquor very well.”
She giggles at my remark. “Well, I kind of had a few other things to sober me up tonight.”
“Such as?”
“This amazing guy accompanied me to this poetry night as our first date. Then he gave me the most amazing gift... ever.”
“Ever?”
“Well, aside from my necklace and other jewels from mi bisabuela, yes, ever.” She looks to me and smiles.
My wolf and I are both feeling the mating passion between Bella and me. I quickly try to change the conversation.
“Glad I could be your first amazing gift giver. Would you be interested in having another date with me?”
“Sure. What do you have in mind?”
“I was thinking about dinner at my place.”
“Oh, do I have to dress up?”
“It’s August in New Orleans, no. Just be comfortable.”
Her laugh is infectious when she expresses her amusement at my comment. “Okay. I’ll be comfortable. When do you want this magical moment to be?”
“Are you free tomorrow? I don’t know your schedule or anything. So, whenever is best for you.”
“You either want it to be tomorrow or you don’t.”
“Fine. I want to see you again tomorrow at my place for dinner. No dress up required.”
