I tap out a quick response and pull on the off-the-shoulder top. Once I’m dressed, I stop by my bathroom and check my hair before spritzing on a little perfume. A glance in my full-length mirror confirms I look cute, considering it took me over an hour to choose jeans and a black shirt. So original, Min.
I have just enough time to transfer a few items from my purse to my small clutch before Ben honks from the driveway. Leaving on a lamp in the living room, I exit the house and make my way to the car.
“Oh, you look hot, Min!” I smile at Piper and mumble a thank you before saying hi to Ben and buckling up.
The drive is about an hour and I wonder why the heck we’re driving so far out of town. Piper is jabbering a mile a minute the entire time. Each time Piper tries to include Ben in part of the conversation, he can’t get a word in before she switches topics. She’s so excited for their upcoming wedding, a smidge of jealousy hits me.
“Wow, this place is packed. I still don’t know why Ashton insisted we drive all the way out here. Besides, she even has our parents coming.”
“I told you, honey, I think her and Jameson have an announcement.”
“Announcement?” I ask.
“Yeah. Piper seems to think in the span of a few weeks they’ve somehow decided to get engaged.”
Piper turns all the way in her seat and looks at me, eyes wide. “He’s being a negative Nelly. I just said that there is no other reason for them to both be so secretive these last few weeks and demand that we’re all here tonight. It’s obvious that something big is going to happen.”
We all exit the car and start making our way toward the front door of Doris’s Tavern. I watch as Ben takes Piper’s hand in his. It’s a simple gesture, but one I miss. Well, not miss per se since Kent didn’t hold hands. Honestly, he wasn’t much for any public display of affection. He wasn’t much into any sort of affection now that I think about it. So much of our relationship was an extension of business I can’t believe I ever thought he was my forever.
Ben spots Jameson as soon as we walk in the door, leading Piper and me across the room. I take an empty seat next to Piper, my back facing the door, as Piper introduces me to everyone at the table, including Jameson’s sister and brother-in-law. I’ve spoken to Julia, Jameson’s sister, on the phone a few times when she’s called the office. I ask about her new baby and she explains this is their first date night since his birth. A flashback of Dakota and Jeff’s first night out hits me and I have to will away the thoughts or I’ll be mopey the rest of the night.
After about twenty minutes of small talk and a dirty martini, the little hairs on the back of my neck bristle. I know, before I hear him, that Owen is here. Saying hello to everyone, Owen and Landon walk around the table and greet Ashton’s mom and Jameson’s sister with a hug and kiss to the cheek. Each smile and offer me a hello. Two seats are available across the table from me, which they both take, leaving the seat next to me empty. I’m not certain what I was expecting, but part of me thought he’d take the empty chair next to me. Owen doesn’t owe me anything; still, a small part of me hoped he’d recognize he knows he’s one of the only people I know here.
Another round of drinks is ordered by all and, when I hesitate, Ben reminds me that he is driving and I should have a good time. Looking over the drink menu, I decide to try one of the specialty martinis and place my order with the server.
While we wait for our drinks, a group of women walks through the doors and make their way to the high-top table that is nestled against the wall. I watch as Landon not so subtlety turns to look at the women, offering them a smile and a head nod in greeting. I try to casually observe Owen and Landon as they talk to each other and then Owen turns around and offers his own greeting to the group of women.
Part of me is pissed he’s barely said two words to me, but then again, I’m the outsider in this group and have no claim on him. Of course, it’d be nice if he talked to me. Acted like we knew each other. Kisses or not.
I don’t have time to wallow in my self-pity because the waitress returns with our drinks and Piper comments that Jameson and Ashton are missing. A few mumbles from everyone at the table and we finally see where Jameson and Ashton have disappeared to. Standing on the stage is a petrified Ashton and a very smitten Jameson.
Piper has mentioned that Ashton has an amazing singing voice but that she suffers from stage fright and we’ll never hear her sing in public. So, this moment must be monumental for her. I cannot believe she has included me in this moment. Sitting at this table are her closest friends and family. And, me. I start to tear up as I realize these are my friends now.
After all these years of working and living with Kent, I have a life that is my own. A job that I enjoy going to each day, friends who include me in their most important moments, and a man who, as much as I hate to admit it, consumes most of my waking—and sleeping—thoughts.
Dammit.
Why did I admit that?
When Jameson and Ashton finish their song, he exits the stage and stands to the side while Ashton sings another song. The room explodes with applause, our table the loudest by far. Landon lets out a loud whistle, which startles me and I jump, looking across the table, catching Owen staring at me. I smile and he winks before turning his attention back to Ash.
Once Ashton is finished, she joins us at the table. Eventually, she excuses everyone who has other places to be. Specifically, Julia, who is clearly missing her babies. As Julia stands to hug everyone goodbye, I notice that Owen and Landon have already left the table and are now standing with the group of women that came in before.
I’m dumbfounded at what I’m seeing. Logically, I know I don’t have a claim on Owen. Hell, I have told him more than once I’m not looking for a relationship. Two kisses, a little flirting, late-night calls, and going out to lunch once do not give me permission to have my feelings hurt.
Regardless, they are.
And I’m pissed. Mostly at myself but also at him. He may not owe me anything, but ignoring me all night and then giving all of his attention to strangers while I sit here and watch him flirt, is downright cruel.
Without a second thought of how I’ll feel tomorrow, I order my third martini from the waitress. If I’m going to sit here and watch Owen flirt, and possibly hook up, with a woman, I might as well do my best to not remember it later.
I am an asshole.
A bonafide piece of shit that ignored a beautiful woman who is my friend. Not only did I barely acknowledge she was sitting across from me, I did it while catching glimpses of her and wondering how she could possibly be more beautiful than the last time I saw her.
See, asshole.
Minnie’s long blonde hair is up off her neck and the top she’s wearing is off her shoulders, fully exposing her throat as she talks animatedly to Julia and Mrs. Sullivan. I’m not sure I’ve ever looked at woman’s neck and thought “Damn, that’s hot.”
Until now.
Minnie hasn’t said much to me and I don’t blame her. I saw the smile on her face when we first got here. She looked relieved to see me and I assume she was grateful to have someone here that she knows. Someone she has talked to every night this week until neither of us could keep our eyes open. Only, I didn’t greet her like any of that had happened. No, I sat across from her with a simple “hey” and a smile.
So, that’s not the worst thing I could have done. Nope. I waited a while longer for that when I joined Landon at the table behind us that held four women who were obviously out for a good time. I can feel eyes burning a hole in the back of my head. I’m trying hard to keep focused on Lisa or Linda, whatever her name is. It’s hard since all she’s talking about is how she doesn’t normally go out or drink. Yet, she’s on her second shot and third beer. Seems like she’s taken to the drinking part just fine.
I have no interest in this woman. She seems nice enough and maybe a few weeks ago I would have been more interested. I would have welcomed her hand lingering a little longer than necessary on my arm. Even her
friend with the low-cut top and high-pitched laugh would have been tolerable.
Now, after the time I’ve spent with Minnie, none of these women compare. They seem desperate and, honestly, extremely loud.
“So, Owen, what do you do for a living?” “Low-Cut Top” girl has nudged her way against the woman I’ve deemed “Arm Toucher” as she purrs her question my way.
“I’m in construction.” I glance over at Landon, who is talking with the good girl in the group. There’s always one. She’s the girl they probably bring along to watch their purses and hold their hair back when they drink too much and are praying to the porcelain god.
“Oh, that sounds interesting. Do you like building houses?”
“Uh, not really. Will you excuse me?”
I don’t wait for the women to grant me permission before I turn and head for the bar. I should go sit back at the table with the rest of my friends, including Minnie. I should be a decent guy.
But, I won’t. Going to sit with them, having drinks, and a good time with Minnie will only muddy the waters. Flirting and a few kisses have already sent me into the land of confusion. Hanging out with her and our friends while she looks like she just stepped off a runway is pushing it. I know we’ll flirt, she’ll smile at me, and I’ll flirt back.
“What’s up, man?” Jameson smacks me on the shoulder as he takes the spot next to me at the bar. I stand here listening to Jameson and the bartender, Mel, throw insults at each other before they finally call a truce and Jameson orders us drinks.
“Even if you buy me a drink, I won’t put out at the end of the night,” I joke before finishing my beer and taking the fresh one from the bartender. Raising the bottle in thanks, I take a long drink before setting the bottle down on the bar.
“It’s cool man, I love you and all but you’re not really my type. I’ve got a thing for sassy brunettes.”
Jameson and Ashton have danced around each other for years. Four years ago, they crossed a line that affected the rest of us. It changed the dynamic of our group and I don’t want to ever go back to that kind of chaos. I love Ashton like a sister, but she was a pain in the ass and moody as fuck anytime she and Jameson were around each other. Meanwhile, Jameson slept his way through town—and surrounding towns—trying to pretend he didn’t have feelings for Ashton. Did I mention this went on for years?
Yes, very dramatic. Our own personal soap opera. It sucked.
“So, I know you did this whole thing to help Ashton with her stage fright and whatever, but will you promise me you’ll never sing again. That was painful, man.” It was. I’m not even sure Jameson should lip sync, it was that awful.
“No plans to ever do that again. I mean, I love her, but that was fucking torture.”
We laugh and catch up a bit on work and my efforts to find a recipe for the perfect stout. The atmosphere in the bar shifts as the night continues. I didn’t realize how long Jameson and I had been at the bar until Ashton made her way over. Soon, the two of them were in their own world and I felt like a third wheel. This is but another reminder that our group is changing; our lives are changing.
“I guess I’ll go find Landon and see if he’s ready to get out of here.” Ashton turns, her arms around Jameson’s waist, and smiles at me. A little mischief is on her face and if I know Ashton Sullivan, and I do, she’s up to something.
“I think Lan already left. Well, I know he did, because he introduced me to some girl and said she was driving him home.”
“Well, that’s great. I’m his ride and he left without telling me.”
“Oh, that’s on me. I told him I’d tell you. Guess I forgot. Oh shoot, and I think Ben and Piper left, too. Babe, whatever will poor Minnie do to get home?” Ashton smiles up to Jameson, who shakes his head in response. That sugary sweet voice she’s using is the one we’ve heard a million times over the years. Usually, that was reserved for her dad when she was trying to get her way.
“Looks like you guys have a stop to make on your way home.” I pull my keys from my pocket and am about to congratulate Ashton on a great night when she stops me, a hand on my forearm.
“Owen, can you take Minnie home? We’re staying nearby tonight. Kind of celebrating and stuff.”
“Don’t bat those eyes at me, Ashton Sullivan. That shit may work with this guy,” I say, motioning toward Jameson, “but, not on me. Ben wouldn’t just leave Minnie. Are you sure they aren’t here?”
“Positive. Min was in the restroom and I told them we’d find her a ride home. Please!”
“You’re a brat, you know that?” I poke at her and roll my eyes.
“Oh, totally. I know this to be true. Thanks a bunch, I’ll just go grab her.”
Jameson laughs at his girlfriend and I mock his obvious love of her. I mock because this poor schmuck is stuck with her and her stubbornness for life. No thanks. But, for them? I’m happy. They both deserve it and I’m glad they’ve worked through their shit and found a way to make it work.
A few minutes later, Ashton returns with a less-than-enthusiastic Minnesota Walker. If I had a bunch of feelings, I’d probably be offended she isn’t more excited to catch a ride with me. She still looks fantastic, even after a night of drinking. I can tell she’s a little tipsy but not drunk. As Ashton insincerely apologizes for the mix-up, Minnie offers me a small smile. It’s timid and uncertain. I hate that. We’re friends. We talk every day and yet, she’s standing before me like she’d rather be leaving with anyone else.
“Are you about ready to go? I’m kind of beat.”
“Uh, sure. Ash, thanks for including me tonight. You were fantastic. Jameson?” J looks up from where he’s nuzzling Ashton’s neck and smiles at Minnie. “Maybe don’t change careers. I think construction is a better fit for you than professional singing.”
We all laugh and Jameson promises to not quit his day job. Minnie steps toward me to leave and I step aside, motioning for her to go ahead and toward the door. I start walking, and as Jameson shouts something completely inappropriate in our direction, I throw my arm up and flip him off. Thankfully, Minnie is far enough ahead of me and almost to the door so I don’t think she heard him.
“I’m just this way near the fence.” Minnie nods in response and begins walking in the direction I indicated. While I appreciated how her top displayed her neck earlier, I didn’t have a chance to see the way her jeans compliment her assets.
Friends, Owen. Get it together, man.
As we approach my Jeep, I click the fob to unlock the door. Before Minnie can reach for her door, I grab the handle, opening it. She hesitates before climbing in the car and whispers a thank you. My response is a nod. Not “you’re welcome,” but a nod. Idiot.
Once I’ve buckled myself in, I look over to see if Minnie is also buckled up and note she’s turned more toward the door, looking out the window. It’s obvious she’s not interested in talking so I just start the car and pull out of the parking spot and toward the highway.
After twenty minutes, nothing fills the car but music. I put the top on before we left because even though it’s hot as Hades during the day, it’s cooler at night and there’s always the possibility I’ll meet someone and the last thing I need is a frozen girl as my passenger. I can’t stand the silence anymore so I break it the best way I can.
“So, J really sucked tonight.”
Minnie laughs a little but doesn’t turn my way before answering. “I don’t know, he wasn’t that bad.”
“Were we at the same place? I’m sure dogs within a twenty-mile radius were howling. It was bad, Min.” Shrugging, Minnie turns, facing forward. It’s progress from her back facing me.
“You’re right. But, he’s my boss, I shouldn’t exactly tell him that.” When she glances my way, I note she’s giving me the cordial smile. It’s the same one she used with the waitress at the bar.
“I’m pretty sure you already did. Plus, he’s your friend, Minnie. It’s expected you will mock him endlessly.”
Minnie doesn’t respo
nd, so I continue with basic small talk. How’re the kids? Is her sister doing well? When does her sister come home? Is the door still working? Yep, I asked about the door. Again. She’s polite enough but her answers are clipped and I can tell she’s pissed. At me.
“Min, you pissed?”
“Nope.”
And, there it is.
“I think we established already that I know ‘nope’ is a dirty four-letter word with a lot of meaning.”
“Did we? I don’t really remember, Owen. Was that before or after you pretended we didn’t know each other? That we haven’t hung out?”
“What are you talking about?”
I wanted Minnie to talk to me, but I may regret this by the look in her eyes. She’s shifted herself so she’s facing me now, her seat belt straining against her body from the way she’s sitting. Her deep, blue eyes are almost black as the night. Those plump lips of hers, which by the way are still bright pink, are pursed and I can tell I’m about to regret asking for an explanation.
“What am I talking about?” she grits out between clenched teeth. Oh shit. Yep, I screwed up.
“I am talking about the fact that tonight when you got to the bar, you didn’t so much as nod your head at me like a fucking stranger. Thank goodness nobody knows we hung out or have even spoken two words to each other. I would be mortified.”
“I have no idea what you’re talking about. I said hi to you like everyone else. You’re being a little dramatic, don’t you think?” The moment the words leave my mouth I regret them. The gasp she responds with confirms I probably should have just apologized. “Look, I’m sorry, all right? I didn’t mean anything by it.”
“Whatever.” Her response is final and an indication that no further discussion is needed. She turns in her seat and remains silent the remainder of the drive. When we’re about ten minutes from her house, I ask her if she has plans tomorrow. She simply shakes her head in response and keeps her gaze looking out the window of the passenger door.
“Are you still mad at me?” I know she is.
Martinis & Moonlight (A Country Road Novel - Book 3) Page 15