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“It’s totally weird.”
That was the wine talking now, but hey, where was the lie?
Eric’s lips twitched. “We miss seeing you.”
We? She knew James missed her. He still sent her a text at least once every couple of weeks telling her he wanted her back. She had yet to reply to one.
It’d been almost six months since she’d ended things with James. Six months since she’d gone to the guys’ weekly barbecue, something that was as routine as shaving her legs.
“Well, I mean, no pressure or anything, but I kind of miss kicking your butt at cornhole.”
That drew an honest laugh and she shook her head. “Actually, I’m pretty sure I kicked your butt.”
“You could be right on that, but I’m going to stick with denial.”
Eric shoved his hands into the pockets of his jeans, making the button-up shirt tighten across his chest. Her gaze locked on that area of his body, noting the broad shoulders.
She made the somewhat detached observation, because it was easier than making eye contact with him. She’d already seen the flash of sympathy in his eyes at one point.
“Anyway, I guess I should get back to my friend. Good seeing you both.” Eric nodded. “Tell Blake we need to meet up soon, will ya, Kris?”
“Will do.”
Once he’d disappeared, Hannah let out a slow breath.
“I’m sorry. Was that totally uncomfortable?” Kristen asked softly. “I should’ve realized it might be.”
“It was a little at first. But Eric’s such a nice guy, I got over it.”
“Yeah, he is.” Kristen paused. “So, answer this. Was it more or less uncomfortable than having dinner with me?”
Hannah lifted her head and met her friend’s questioning eyes and grimaced.
“Hey, you’re not the one who sucked face with another girl while being in a relationship with me, Kristen. That was your brother.”
“I know. And it was a total dick thing to do.” Kristen cupped her beer and sighed.
A thought pricked, leaving Hannah unsettled. “You didn’t invite me out tonight to convince me to take your brother back, did you?”
“What? No. Just for the record, I am totally, hashtag, Team Hannah.” With a slight shrug, Kristen lowered her gaze. “Look, you’re more than just a friend. You’re like a big sister to me. Always have been. And I don’t want to lose that friendship. It’s part of the reason I made you join me tonight. I need you to know that.”
A small smile tugged at Hannah’s lips and the emotional wall she put up crumbled a bit.
Kristen had been as much of a part of her life as James had. When they’d first become a couple in middle school, Kristen had been a cute eight-year-old who’d tagged along with them whenever she could.
Hannah gave a small nod. “You’re like a sister to me too. Maybe I’m kind of terrible at showing it, but I really am glad you invited me out.”
“Me too.”
“Here you are, ladies.” The waitress arrived with their food. “Your dinners, and one cotton candy martini for the birthday girl.”
“Oh.” Slightly confused, Hannah accepted the bright, festive drink. “Thanks.”
“Don’t thank me.” The waitress gestured to the bar area. “Thank that gentleman over there.”
*
Eric watched, holdinghis breath, as his drink was delivered.
