Their reactions prickled over my skin like static.
Was I missing something?
Did theyknowhim? Were they hiding something from me?
Before I could ask, Rhodes clapped his hands together and said, “Okay! Who wants a shot?”
Everyone erupted in a chorus of cheers, hoots, and laughter, conversation pivoting like someone flipped a switch.
No one asked a single question. No teasing, no curious follow-ups.
I had expected at least something, especially from the girls. They lived for this kind of gossip. They were usually the first to cheer you on when someone new entered the picture.
But they all just… moved on.
So I did too.
We finished our first round of drinks, the conversation flowing easily. Mac floated between work and chatting with us, and I tried not to glance at the door too often.
But I was waiting.
And waiting.
With each passing minute, my nerves twisted a little tighter.
What if Miles backed out?
What if I’d just announced him to all my friends, and he ditched me?
I stared into my glass, watching the amber liquid slosh as I gently swirled it.
“He’s here,” Mac muttered, announcing his arrival from behind the bar.
Logan and I looked up at the same time.
Miles walked in—shoulders squared, smile on his lips, and completely out of place in a tight-fitting polo and baggy jeans that looked like they belonged to two different decades.
Still, I smiled.
He came.
My stomach flipped with relief and just a little bit of pride. I wasn’t the only one standing alone anymore. I had someone here too, someone to stand with me.
He made his way over and placed a hand on my shoulder.
“Everyone, this is Miles,” I said, lifting my hand to gesture toward him.
Starting with Rhodes, they offered him quick introductions, each extending a hand, polite and brief.
Then it was Boone’s turn.
Of course, he puffed out his chest, meeting Miles with a grip that was far too intense for a friendly hello.
“Ah,” Miles chuckled. “You must be the brother.”
“I am,” Boone replied, pulling back his hand. “Good to know my sister’s out here talking about me behind my back.” He winked.
“Actually, she hasn’t said much,” Miles replied with a smirk. “I’ve heard about the infamous Boone Cassidy from others around town.”
