Page 24 of Keeping it Local

“That all?” he asked.

“That’s all for tonight.” I gave him a knowing look.

He rocked back on his heels. “Well, that’s too bad. I was hoping you and Beth would sing a duet up on the stage tonight.”

“What?” I looked around again, taking in how many people were here for a Thursday night. It was a lot. As my gaze skimmed across the crowd, I saw the stage that they’d occasionally bring in for local acts to play. But instead of a band set up, there were two microphones set up next to a chalkboard sign that said Tonight: Karaoke at 9:30. “Fuck.”

“I didn’t realize it either until Sam mentioned it,” Lane said, chuckling. “He said they’re trying to bring more of the tourists in with themed nights. This is definitely one way to do that.”

“I love karaoke! Watching everyone waltz onstage and be ridiculous.” Beth squealed a little. “This will be great.”

“Yeah, Johnny, this will be great.” Lane’s eyes bounced back and forth between us. “I’ll see you guys when you get up there.”

Our server came by and took our order, leaving us beers to sip on in the meantime.

“I take it you don’t like karaoke?” Beth asked, sticking her thumb out, pointing to the stage.

“Not especially.” I didn’t know what my problem was. I had an attitude I couldn’t shake. I knew it was because I was protecting myself, trying not to let her in, trying to keep it casual, but it was becoming tougher than I thought it’d be.

“Well, the truth is, I was a little nervous about tonight, so karaoke helps to take some of the edge off.” She sat back in her chair, crossing her tan legs.

“No need to be nervous with me,” I said, looking at her in the eye now.

“I’m just not used to this kind of thing… at all. I wasn’t sure what to wear. I feel a little fish out of water to be honest.”

“Well, I think you look great. And, hey, if it makes you feel any better, I was a little nervous about tonight as well. As much as I hate to say it, maybe karaoke will have its perks.” I leaned toward her across the round bar table.

“Thanks. I appreciate that.” She blushed up her neck, and I had to watch my face as the pink spread over the tops of her breasts, peaking out of her top. “So, this your favorite place?” she asked, changing the subject.

“Not my favorite, but a staple, for sure. Hence why Lane is here. It’s one of his places too.”

“You guys are close, huh?”

“Yeah, I’m friendly with most people here, but he’s my closest friend by far. I don’t know what I would have done a few years back without him.” I paused a beat, realizing what I was saying. I cleared my throat. “I moved in with him for a while. When I first got to town.”

“He seems like a good guy. And hey, all you have to worry about tonight is sitting back and enjoying the vocal variety of people who can’t sing. It’ll be a night to remember.” She grinned at me, placing her hand on my arm that burned hot, then looked to the stage as the first singer walked up.

The next hour or so sped by as we watched the different tourists and locals belt their hearts out. As Beth watched and listened to the singers, I loved watching her cup her hands and scream for more to the people onstage, leaning in to her enjoyment. She was hooting and hollering during the choruses, gave some standing ovations, and even egged on a neighboring table to get up on stage. I could have watched her all night. The drinks stayed filled, and despite myself, I couldn’t keep a goofy grin off my face.

She went to the restroom, and Lane decided to plop down in her seat.

“You know, can’t say I’ve ever seen you look like this before.” Lane smirked at me.

“What are you talking about?”

“Smitten. I thought you were going to hold her at arm’s length?” He laughed before taking a swig of his beer.

“I’m not smitten.” I shook my head, keeping an eye out for her before she walked over and overheard something she shouldn’t.

“Hey, I’m not judging.” He lifted his hands in the air. “You’re the one who said you shouldn’t get wrapped up into anything.”

“It’s nothing—just some summer fun.” As I said it, I knew it was a white lie, but I tried to convince myself all the same.

“Whatever you say, bud,” Lane said, patting me on the back and giving Beth a wave as she walked back up.

“What was that about?” Beth asked.

“Don’t ask.” I shook my head, smiling again at her.