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I look up at the friendly gentleman holding his coat. His head is slightly cocked and lowered, and there’s a flirtatious smirk playing on his lips that brings one out of me.
“Go right ahead.”
He nods and takes a seat. “I’ll take a club soda. With lime.”
I perk a brow. “Can you make that two please?” I ask the bartender.
“In that case, put hers on mine.” He smiles and turns his head. “You’re a cheap date. I’m Doug Phil.”
I laugh. “They say never trust a man with two first names,” I say, not intending on sharing my name in return.
“I have a different saying. Never trust a man whose socks match. Big red flag.”
“Is it?” I ask with intrigue and peek under the table. He lifts his slacks, indeed revealing a patterned red sock and a blue one.
“Oh well, you’ve got my trust. But I also once gave my bank information to a Nigerian Prince, so take it for what it’s worth.”
He laughs. “So, absolutely nothing.”
I wince and nod.
“Fair enough.”
We sip our non-alcoholic beverages and make fun of the bar scene on a Sunday night. The football game on one screen. Hockey on another. The Denver Kings aren’t playing another game until Wednesday, so it must be another state. I squint for a better look.
“You a hockey fan?”
“I’m starting to appreciate it more.”
“Who’s your favorite team? And by that, I’m secretly asking where you’re from because everyone always chooses their hometown team.”
“Well then you’re still out of luck because I don’t have a favorite team.”
“You’re a smart girl.”
I jerk my head. “Thank you.” Biggest compliment I got all day. “I should get going. This smart girl realized it’s time to get home.”
He nods once and gives me a small wave as I slide off the chair.
I slip outside into the cold, wrapping my coat around myself.
“Sure I can’t buy you a real drink? You barely got through the soda,” Doug asks, coming out behind me.
I turn and he smiles warmly.
“I’m good. I’m just trying to keep a clear mind tonight.”
“Ah me too. I’m driving. Plus, I’m…kinda working.”
“Oh.” I look around, wondering what kind of work a man in a suit does after hours. “What are you a bodyguard or something?”
He laughs. “No. I protect no one but myself.”
I lift my brows. “Can you teach me how to do that?”
“It’s simple.” He steps closer like it’s a secret. “Don’t talk to strangers.”
I frown as he grips my arm. “Come with me, Ms. Walker.”
