Page 10 of Sloane

Subtly squeezing Ashley’s hand, I hoped to nonverbally communicate just that. But I replied, “Go to In-n-Out. I need a Double-Double combo stat.”

That made Craig laugh out loud. “Lead the way,” then he called out to the rest of the crowd, “We’re going to In-n-Out.”

Most everyone expressed their inability to go to the fast-food spot, and stopped to hug me again, welcome me back, and suggest we get together before I leave.

“We’re having a party at O’Malley’s on Friday,” Ryan interjected, then glanced at me with a big grin. “Like old times.”

I had no doubt the crowd at the bar on Friday was going to be even bigger than the one today. I knew I was a lucky son of a bitch. I was home safe, my friends were amazing, and I had one hand entwined with my dream girl’s while I scratched my dog’s ears with the other.

“Sloane, you’ve gotta try one of Ashley’s cupcakes. They’re so good,” Maddie said as she handed Ashley her tray.

She made fucking cupcakes. She couldn’t be any sweeter if she tried.

I glanced over at Ashley as I lifted the clear cover to reveal a few festive red, white, and blue frosted cupcakes. Judging by the smeared frosting and crumbs, the plate had once held a lot more.

“You made these?”

She shrugged like she was embarrassed. “I saw them on Pinterest and thought they were a cute idea to welcome you home.”

Plucking one from the dish, I examined it while I peeled back the paper.

“They look good.”

Taking a big bite, I got a dollop of frosting on my nose in the process. The sugary goodness exploded in my mouth. There was no way I could eat just one of them. Laughing as I wiped the frosting off my face while I swallowed, I said, “They taste even better.”

I finished the rest of the cupcake in two bites and grabbed another, finishing it before we left the hangar, and I took Tank’s leash from Ryan, wrapping it around my wrist while I held used cupcake liners in my hand.

I let out a contented sigh as I reached for Ashley’s free hand again.

“Those were really good. You know the only time I’ve had anything sweet in the last four months is if you sent it to me? You have no idea how much I look forward to your packages.”

“I’m glad you enjoy them. It’s why I send them.”

She giggled when I added, “And my men appreciate that you send extra.”

Ashley gestured to the trash can, and I tossed the liners in.

“I’m surprised you share.”

“Believe me, I don’t always want to. But sweets don’t last long in one hundred-and fifteen-degree heat before they go bad, so I’d rather they’re enjoyed than wasted.”

“Well, it makes me happy to know someone is eating them.”

You know what would make me happy? Eating your pussy.

I scolded myself the minute the thought popped in my head.

Jesus, I’m a dog.

But I had no doubt she’d taste sweeter than any cupcake as she came on my tongue.

As we approached the parking lot, I turned to Ashley. “Is it okay if I ride with you?”

“Of course. Just let me rearrange some things in the back so Tank has room.”

Once again, she was showing how thoughtful she was—not hesitating to make room for my hairy dog.

Turning to Ryan, I asked, “Do you mind taking Tank and we can meet you there?”

---