Normally, they’d move me to a table if I’m ordering food, but it’s a weeknight and slow. There’s no reason for me to go to another spot. He walks to the small window and tells them my order. Patrick, the guy in charge of the kitchen, sees my face and gives me a sympathetic nod.
What is it with the people working here thinking I need comfort? I’m usually much better at hiding my emotions. After all, I’ve had a ton of practice over the years pretending I’m not in love with Piper. I didn’t even realize she was still going on the dating apps after the last disaster. One day she’ll wake up and realize I’m right in front of her.
Eric slides my beer in front of me. “Here you go. You want to talk about it?”
“Nope.” It’s a bit snarky, but it’ll get him off my back for a bit.
“I’ll bring over your food in just a bit.”
A curt nod is all I can give him. I don’t much feel like talking to anyone. Right now, Piper is on a date with some douchebag and I’m here drowning my sorrows because it’s not with me. The guy she’s with is probably nice…maybe. That’s beside the point.
She won’t even consider she has feelings for me. The kiss we shared a few weeks ago is proof she does. For once I wish she’d listen to her heart over her head. Things wouldn’t change between us. We’d still be best friends. We’d just have added benefits.
“Where’s the other half?”
I groan at the sound of Parker’s voice. Of course, he’s the person who would run into me while I’m pining for his sister. At least it’s not one of the other brothers. We’re cool and all, but I don’t know how they’d react to my feelings for Piper.
“She’s on a date,” I mumble.
“I’m guessing that’s why you’re here giving everyone don’t come near me vibes.” He takes a seat on the stool next to me.
“Doesn’t look like it’s working.” I take another sip of my beer before glancing over at him.
“I’m sure it works on everyone else, but I don’t care.” He waves toward Eric who is already working on his drink. Perks of being a regular, I guess. “Besides, everyone loves me.”
“You’re kind of full of yourself.”
“Nah.” He waves my comment away. “I just go after what I want.”
“Doesn’t mean you’re not cocky about it.”
“Touché.” He nods as Eric slides over his whiskey. “So, how’s your little project with my sister going?”
Fuck. How did he find out? Pierce left me with the impression nobody else would know what we were doing.
“I don’t know what you’re talking about.”
“Calm down. She told me when I caught her taking a video. I’m guessing she didn’t tell you.”
“No.” I guess it slipped her mind. It makes me feel slightly better about keeping my own secret, but only just.
“Why do you look like someone just kicked your puppy?” He bumps his shoulder into me.
“What are you talking about? I’m perfectly fine.” Eric brings me another beer and the wings he knows I always get. “See.” I point to my food. “I have my drink and food. There’s nothing wrong.”
“Soooo, my sister being on a date with someone who I’m sure is probably an asshole has nothing to do with the scowl you’re wearing. Good to know.”
“Fine.” I throw my hands in the air knowing damn well I won’t be able to eat in peace until he gets to the bottom of my mood. He’s always been like this so I shouldn’t be surprised. “Yes, I’m annoyed your sister is on yet another date that’s going to turn into a disaster. I don’t think she’s gone on more than one with anyone she meets on these apps. She kissed me a couple of weeks ago and refuses to admit she feels anything for me. So, yeah, her being out with someone other than me is a problem.”
“Damn, he got that out of you with a quickness.” Eric laughs as he leans against the bar. “Maybe he should take my title as matchmaker and problem solver.”
“Shut up, Eric. I don’t need your shit, too.” I take a long swig of my drink to avoid their gaze.
“Wait, back up.” Parker turns toward me. “My sister kissed you?”
Why does his surprise sound fake?
“Yes.” There’s not one ounce of guilt in my response even though I know I should tread lightly with her brothers.
