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“How romantic of you,” Charlie gushes, placing her hand on her heart. “Now, was that before or after the strip club visit last Saturday?”
“Firstly, it wasn’t a strip club,” Lex corrects her.
“It’s true, Charlie,” Adriana claims, raising her glass for no apparent reason. “It was a client’s bar, and someone forgot to mention the dress code for the event.”
“Topless waitresses are not a dress code,” Charlie argues back.
Dad laughs. “Look, it was Noah’s invite. We just tagged along.”
Charlie throws her arms up in the air. “Of course, blame my cousin since he isn’t here.”
“I’m pretty certain this has Eric’s name all over it,” the voice behind me says.
The sound of her voice sends this frenzy within me. I’m careful not to turn around too quickly, not wanting to appear too eager to those around me, especially her parents.
But slowly, I do so until I’m staring into her emerald eyes. Fuck, why can’t I breathe?
“Addison, honey. You’re here.” Charlie hugs her daughter, followed by Lex. “And who’s your handsome date?”
Cruz leans in for a hug. “The guy who begged his best friend.”
My brother then turns to face me, giving me a simple nod. I don’t say anything, still fixated on how stunning she looks in a red off-the-shoulder gown. Her hair is out, styled to the side, exposing her delicate skin.
“Addison, twice in one week. Isn’t that something,” I muse.
“Rather coincidental…” she trails off, glancing at Ariel beside me. “Will you introduce your girlfriend to us?”
“Ariel…” I begin with, leaning over to gesture, “… is a friend and here to accompany me tonight.”
Dad snickers, shaking his head while finishing his second drink. “Your mother got to you.”
I casually introduce Ariel to everyone before she excuses herself to use the restroom. The moment she’s gone, Cruz slaps my arm proudly. “Damn, bro. Not bad at all.”
Lex hides his grin behind his drink as Charlie glances at him with a death stare.
“I’m not sure why you’re looking at me like that,” he tells her.
“You encourage bad behavior.”
Dad lets out a long whistle. “Son, there are moments when I wonder if my guidance is any use to you. But once again, I’m proven my influence is well-appointed. Good job.”
“Good job?” Addison blurts out of nowhere, only to realize she’s done so. “Ariel looks like she’s an intelligent woman, not some bimbo who’s placed on some sexist pedestal for male gratification.”
“Addy,” Cruz chuckles. “It’s a joke.”
“I’m going to get a drink,” she tells him.
“The bar is right here.”
“Well, I’m going to the other side of the bar. Excuse me, everyone.”
Addison walks away, unable to look my way. I can’t exactly chase after her, so I stand here, hoping everyone leaves so I can ask her what the hell that was about. Talk about causing an unnecessary scene.
“I don’t know what’s up with her. She’s been anxious all week,” Cruz confesses.
“Addison, anxious?” Adriana and Charlie say at the same time.
Cruz shrugs his shoulders. “Yeah, maybe it’s the new job, I dunno.”
