I couldn’t cancel on Cathryn. She’d kill me. A bullshit excuse about antibiotics or stomach issues would have to do.
He was ruining my life and he wasn’t even in it.
?? ?? ??
“You’re not drinking?” Cathryn echoed, staring at me like I’d just murdered her cat.
“I’m on antibiotics,” I said, doing my best impression of solemn regret.
Her eyes narrowed. “For what?”
God, she really didn’t let up.
“An abscess. Do you want to see it?” I asked, opening my mouth and leaning in.
“Ew—no!” she squealed, planting her palm against my face and shoving me back. “Fine. I’ll drink alone. But it won’t be as fun. I wanted to see what kind of drunk you are. I had money on horny.”
“I’m saying nothing,” I said with a grin.
When we walked into the bar, most people turned to stare.
It made me want to tug at the neckline of my dress, even though it wasn’t indecent.
“Why are they staring at us?” I whispered to Cathryn.
“It’s you, not me,” she replied. “You’re fresh meat—new in town.”
I groaned as we reached the bar.
“Hello, Juliette,” Rick said, flashing a smile. “You look ravishing this evening.”
“And what am I?” Cathryn piped up. “Chopped liver?”
I hid my smile.
“You’re both ravishing,” Rick said smoothly, “but only one of you is single.”
He winked at me.
“Give it a rest, Rick. I’m surprised you’re not riddled with STIs,” Cathryn shot back.
I choked on laughter as Rick glared at her.
We ordered our drinks and found a booth with decent lighting and surprisingly comfortable seats.
As the evening went on, Cathryn pointed out most of the people in the bar and told me their life stories—sometimes more than one generation’s worth.
“So, what’s the sheriff like?” I asked casually, sipping my drink. “His Grammy came around a few times.”
“Kade?” She tilted her head, thinking. “Hmm. Tragic, really. He’d been with his fiancée since high school. She dumped him to go live her best life in the city. Didn’t help that everyone knew about it. He’s been kinda grouchy ever since.”
I nodded, trying to play it cool while my brain caught fire.
Of course.
That’s why he made that jab about me running away.
“I’m surprised Grace didn’t try to hook you up with him,” Cathryn added with a smirk.
