Owen can’t see my expression, but my lips curve up in a subtle smirk.
Holly angrily crosses her arms over her chest and furrows her brows.
“I don’t know what you’re talking about, Owen.”
“Have a good evening, Holly,” Owen dismisses her. “I’m sure there’s plenty of drama you can stir up elsewhere.”
Her blue gaze bounces between us for another moment before she dramatically rolls her eyes, spins on her red-bottom heels, and stomps off.
Great.
So we’re zero-for-two so far tonight.
“Wow,” I blow out a breath, leaning back into Owen. “Tough crowd,” I add, staring off into the cluster of guests.
“Holly is a menace,” Owen grumbles, spinning me to face him.
He wraps an arm around my waist and leans down to cup my face with his free hand. I instinctively rest my arms over his shoulders, my eyes bouncing between his.
“She’s one of Lauren’s close friends,” he continues. “She’s just hoping to dig up some dirt so she can gossip with Lauren when she gets home. She’s not worth our time. Seriously, don’t let her bother you.”
I’m trying not to.
I’m genuinely trying. But from the moment Holly walked off, the noise from the deck seemed louder. Overwhelming in an anxiety-inducing way.
The music.
The incessant laughter.
The clatter of glasses and heels thumping against the deck.
Lauren.
I’m reminded once again that she was supposed to be here.
Owen’s finger slides beneath my chin, tilting my head up until I’m staring directly into his pine-green eyes.
His face bends with worry, as if he can practically see the negative thoughts swirling through my mind.
“Meadow,” Owen rasps, pressing his forehead to mine. “Stay with me.”
I know what he’s trying to say.
Stay here.
Don’t let your mind wander to that dark place.
This is our last night here.
Stay here, in the present, and stop worrying about the future.
We will be okay.
You’re mine, and I’m yours.
“Stay with me, baby,” he repeats against my lips. “Let’s have a good night. I promise not everyone here are assholes.”
I chuckle lightly, my lips curving up in a tiny smile as I nod.
