Page 26 of It's a Widow Thing

“Believe me, I was positive you’re not a virgin.”

They wound their way past the other tables to reach the cage, where Stephanie, their instructor was waiting. “It’s all about balance and aim,” she started. “You don’t have to use much muscle. The axes are light and designed for throwing. You’re going to put both hands on the axe, line up your thumbs like on a golf club, step up to the line, aim, and release.” She quickly demonstrated, impressively connecting with the center of the target.

“See, Orla?” Michael asked. “Piece of cake.”

“I’m still not sure. I’m not much of an athlete.”

Michael laughed. “If you ever watched professional axe throwing on ESPN, you’ll know that those people aren’t necessarily athletes, either. I promise you can do it. I’ll help.”

“You’ve got your axes right here. You each take a turn, then you remove the axes and start over. That’s the way to make sure nobody ends up with an axe in the head. Just shout at me if you have any questions,” Stephanie said.

Even though Kendra and Sabrina were lined up at their target and both eager to try, it was impossible to not watch Orla and Michael as he helped her hold the axe and aim it at the other bullseye.

“One… two…” Michael stood behind Orla and guided her hand. “Three.” The axe tumbled through the air and went straight into the wood. Michael turned and looked at Sabrina and Kendra over his shoulder, with a wide, satisfied grin. “See? I told you, Orla. You’re a natural.”

Orla giggled, a sound Sabrina hadneverheard come out of her. “That was fun. You were right.”

Kendra went next, coming dangerously close to the center of the target. Then went Michael, who of course just had to get a bullseye on the first try. He shrugged it off, then he studied Sabrina as she took her turn. It landed right on the line between the sweet spot and the outer ring.

Kendra mumbled to Sabrina after they retrieved their axes for their next round of play. “I can see why you’re a little torn up about him. He’s ridiculously charismatic.”

“He is.”

“And talk about sweet. How much more adorable could he be with Orla?”

Sabrina sighed. “I know. I think he made her night.”It makes me want to make his.

“I get it. And I’m not attracted to men, so you know that’s saying something.”

After several rounds of throwing, Michael and Sabrina sat while his brothers took their places. Orla was becoming a full-on axe throwing addict.

“It’s cool for me to hang out with you and your friends,” Michael said. “I feel like I’m seeing a whole different side of you.”

“And do you like this different side of me?”

“I like all sides of you. I think you already know that.” He leaned in and planted a dizzying kiss on her lips. It didn’t last nearly long enough. All she wanted was more.

“You know, we should share a cab home.” She bit down on her lip, hoping he would pick up on the fact that she finally felt like she was ready for more.

“It only makes sense.” With a nod, Michael gestured at his brothers, Kendra, and Orla, who were returning to the table.

Orla nearly collapsed in her chair, then downed her water. “Is that the time?” she asked, exactly as she would have done if they’d met at her house.

“I have a super early morning,” Kendra said. “But that was fun.”

“We’ll go take care of the check,” Michael said. He and his brothers made their way up to the bar.

Orla tugged on Sabrina’s arm. “He’s wonderful.”

Sabrina smiled at her friend. It wasn’t like she needed Orla’s approval, but it was nice to have extra reassurance. “He is, isn’t he?”

“I’m serious. What man helps me when he could have been spending time with you? It was so selfless. So kind.”

“Thanks, Orla. That really means a lot to me.”

“And remember that I’m always here for you if you need any more advice.”

Sabrina leaned over and planted a kiss on Orla’s head, feeling immensely thankful to have her.