He leans in and kisses me again, only this time, it’s not soft, and I moan into his mouth as his tongue collides with mine. I’m beginning to wish I hadn’t agreed to a drink and we’d just gone straight back to my place. After the teasing over dinner, I was more than ready to drag him back to my apartment.
“Ashlyn?” a voice says, and I reluctantly pull out of the kiss. Opening my eyes, my stomach drops when I see Seb.
“Seb. I didn’t expect to see you here tonight. Is Taylor okay?”
His eyes go from me to Ben and then back to me. “She’s good. I wasn’t allowed to stay now she’s awake. They sent me home.”
I stand from the booth and go to him, taking his hand in mine. “So, why haven’t you gone home? You must be exhausted, Seb.”
He sighs. “I need to check on this place. I haven’t been here in weeks.”
“Ryder has it under control.”
“Yeah, I guess.” He looks past me to Ben. “You’re still seeing this guy then?”
“It’s Ben, and yes, I am.”
I gesture for Ben to come over, and when he slides out of the booth, he slips his hand in mine.
“So, you’re still married? I overheard you mention your wife when you and Ash were arguing.”
“Seb,” I warn.
“It’s okay, Ash,” Ben says, squeezing my hand. “Yes, I’m married, but it’s not like you think.”
“It’s complicated, Seb,” I interject. “Ben doesn’t want everyone knowing his business.”
“Your brother isn’t everyone. It’s okay.” He looks from me to Seb and sighs. “My wife and I decided to separate right before she got into a skiing accident. She hit her head, and six years later, we’re still waiting for her to wake up.”
“Fuck,” Seb says, shaking his head. “That’s messed up. I’m sorry, man.”
“It’s been tough, I’m not going to lie.” Ben releases my hand and slips his arm around my waist, pulling me into his side. “Meeting Ash made me remember that life is for living, you know?”
Seb nods. “After the last six weeks, I know that better than anyone.”
“It’s great that Taylor’s okay,” Ben says, and Seb gives him a small smile.
“Thanks.” He sighs and drags his hand through his hair. “Look, maybe I misjudged you…” he trails off. “Thanks for being there for Ash. I know how hard things have been on her over the past few weeks, and I’m glad someone had her back.”
Ben looks at me and smiles. “No thanks needed. I really care about your sister, Seb. I know you do too.”
He nods. “I do, and just know that if you hurt her, you’ll be in a world of pain.”
Ben chuckles, but I know Seb means it.
“I won’t hurt her. You have my word.”
He nods. “I’ll leave you to it. Have a good night.”
I watch in amazement as Seb disappears into the crowd before I turn to Ben. “I’m speechless.”
“Well, that’s a first,” Ben says with a wink.
“Hey!” I exclaim, a wide smile on my face.
“I’m joking, baby.”
“I can’t believe he didn’t lose his shit when he saw us kissing.”
