Page 52 of Royal Desire

I ignore the last question and decide to focus on our stellar performance. “Yeah, it was great.”

“Last week’s performances got better and better, but nothing compares to tonight. I’m just along for the ride. You were amazing. I don’t know how you do it and never lose your voice.”

I kick off my heels and slide my aching feet into a pair of flip-flops that should’ve been thrown out five years ago. “You were so good. I’m sorry I didn’t take another break. Your fingers probably hate me.”

Blake is still coming down from his high. “Okay, but what’s up with you and Payne? I can’t believe you got back together and didn’t tell me.”

I’m about to refute that when Felicity and Devon walk through the door. Felicity beams and clasps her hands at her heart. “That was splendid, you two. Bravo, bravo! I do believe private performances will be a big hit for future conferences.”

The chatter from the bar is muted again when Devon closes the door behind him. “Felicity is right. I don’t know what I have to do to keep you two on the payroll, but I’ll make it happen. My bar sales double when you two are here.”

“Double!” Blake beams. “That’s great, Mr. Donnelly. I love working here.”

There’s something about my brother that brings out the best in everyone. I wish I could be more like him.

Devon smirks at Blake, and I can tell it’s genuine. “I’ll do anything to keep you and your sister happy.”

“Thank you, Devon. Ditto what Blake said.” I turn to grab my bag and jacket. “I’m beat. Let’s hit the road, Blake.”

Blake turns to the tip jar. “I need to split this up with the bar and servers.”

I grab the tip jar and thrust it into Felicity’s hands. “Do you mind taking care of that? We can get our tips tomorrow. My feet are killing me.”

Felicity is about to agree, but Blake takes it back from her. “You never work this late, Felicity. Go home. This will only take a few minutes.”

Damn Blake for being so sweet.

I turn to Felicity. “Sorry. Yes, you should go home.”

Blake starts counting the tip jar—giddier with every bill he stacks.

She waves us off. “Pfft. I took a little snooze this afternoon to get me through the night. I’m in for the long haul this weekend to manage Payne’s conference.”

As if some supernatural voice from above announced his arrival, the door to the storeroom pushes open in a dramatic entrance. He looks around before his eyes land on me. He steps inside and slams the door.

Before he has the chance to speak or kiss me again, Felicity steps forward into the middle of the crowded space filled with liquor and every other necessity to run a bougie bar, and her nervous energy comes tumbling out of her mouth in a rush. “I thought that was marvelous, right, Payne? Your clients really ate it up. What a perfect and lovely addition to the weekend.”

“They loved it,” Payne deadpans. “I need to talk to Ruby. Alone.”

“Oh,” Felicity squeaks. “But it’s so late. Her feet hurt.”

Blake stops counting money, and his eyes widen.

Devon crosses his arms. “Don’t you mean the love of your life?”

I can barely handle the drama with the lingering taste of Payne’s kiss. I have no idea what tonight was about, but dealing with him after an emotional week is too much. “We’re a little busy. We need to tip the waitstaff and get home to check on Grandma. She’s been doing better, but you never know when her sweet tooth is going to take over. I don’t trust her with her own devices just yet.”

“I’ve got this.” Blake motions to the pile of cash in front of him and continues to double-cross me instead of having my back like a devoted half of a duo should. “And I can check on Grandma. I’ve been taking care of her for years. As long as Payne can give you a ride home when you’re done.”

Payne casually slides his hands into his pockets. “I can do that.”

“Whatever it is, it can wait.” I sit my booty on a case of Blanton’s.

Payne steps around Felicity, and one side of his mouth quirks up in a dare. “What are you afraid of?”

Afraid?

Damn. Payne knows how to get to me. But, if I’m honest, I’m afraid of a couple of things right now, and knowing why he kissed me is at the top of the list.