Page 91 of King of Pride

Rose gave her a small, uncertain smile.

Blaire’s gaze immediately flicked toward Maverick. She planted one hand on her hip, looked him over, then turned back to Rose.

“Okay. Yeah. This guy is a million times better. Jesus, woman. You have a terrible taste in men.”

“Blaire.”

Maverick’s voice was low, but there was a clear warning in his tone.

Blaire glanced at him, but instead of backing down, she simply turned her attention back to Rose and lifted a finger as if she had one more important thing to say.

“Your ex was a bonehead. I’m glad you got rid of him.” She shook her head, still looking at Rose. “But why didn’t you hit him back? Seriously?”

Rose gave her a slightly guilty smile. “I was in shock.”

“Fair enough.” Blaire nodded, accepting the explanation, although the frown remained on her face. She drew in a deep breath and glanced briefly at Zoe before looking back at Rose. “Anyway, it’s fine. Zoe and I took care of him for you. Next time, you can—”

“There won’t be a next time.”

Maverick cut her off before she could finish. His voice was stern and cold.

Blaire’s mouth snapped shut.

She glanced at him and cleared her throat, suddenly looking a little less fearless than she had a moment ago. Apparently, even Blaire had limits when it came to testing Maverick’s patience.

“Good, then,” she said, recovering quickly. “But if you ever do need help, don’t hesitate to ask. We girls have to stick together.”

She turned toward Rose and offered her hand.

Rose smiled and took it. “Thank you. You too.”

“Let’s go. I’ll drop you off at your place.”

Maverick stepped in, taking Rose’s hand from Blaire and keeping it securely in his own. He turned toward the exit, already preparing to lead her out.

Blaire shook her head. “Never mind. My friend is already here to pick me up. She’s waiting outside, so I’m going to head out first.”

She gave everyone a quick wave before turning toward the exit.

“Blaire, wait!”

Zoe hurried after her.

The moment she caught up, she wrapped her arms around Blaire, hugging her tightly. Blaire hugged her back without hesitation, squeezing her just as firmly before Zoe finally pulled away.

“I’m sorry,” Zoe said quietly. “I really am. I shouldn’t have gotten you into trouble.”

“Don’t worry about it.” Blaire immediately scowled and gave Zoe’s arm a reassuring pat. “I’m glad you care that much about your friends. Don’t forget that I’m your friend too.”

Zoe’s smile widened.

Blaire grinned and took a step backward. “All right. I’m really leaving this time.”

Zoe laughed softly. “Go.”

Blaire turned and headed toward the exit, and Zoe remained where she was, watching her disappear through the doors with a small smile on her face.

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