Page 116 of Breaking the Rules
Once upon a time, I would have thought that too. I would have been over the moon fucking an eager babe who wanted to ply me with wine. But now—
All I can think about is Emma.
"Not liking wine is a deal-breaker." A laugh spills from her lips. "Wine is life."
"I know what you mean." Maybe that's the cliché Latin phrase tattooed to her ribs.In Vita Vinum.
That's another reason why I shouldn't be here.
It's hard enough avoiding booze when it's far away.
When there's a gorgeous woman begging me to drink?
Fuck, I need to get out of here.
"Where's your bathroom?" I ask.
She motions to a room down the hall.
My heart thuds against my chest as I lock myself inside.
I'm not sure if it's the calls or the wine or the combination.
I make a mental note to go to a meeting first thing in the morning.
Wipe my palms on a towel.
Splash cool water on my face.
Then I pull out my cell to check her text.
Emma: Are you still free?
Emma: I could use a ride.
Emma: But if you're busy fucking Carpe Diem, I'll summon a ride share.
There are two missed calls.
She's acting calm, but if there are calls, she must be freaked.
I hit the button to call her back.
She answers with a shaky voice. "Hunter."
"You okay?"
"Yeah. I just… I overreacted to something." Her words run together. She's nervous. And a little drunk.
"You called twice."
"Did I fuck up your date?" There's no fire in her voice. None of the usual sharpness. Just fear.
"What happened?"
"I need a ride."
"Are you drunk?"
