Page 28 of A Very Grumpy Marine

I snort. “That’s your grand advice?”

“Yes! Because this isn’t about what youshoulddo. It’s about what youwantto do.”

I hesitate. “And what if I don’t know what I want?”

Lilou gives me a knowing look. “Then why do you miss him so much?”

I open my mouth, but nothing comes out.

Because she’s right. Idomiss him.

I miss the way he makes me feel grounded, the way his rough voice turns soft when he calls mebaby. The way he holds me like he never wants to let go.

I misshim.

I sigh, dropping my head back against the booth. “God. I’m so screwed.”

Lilou grins. “No, babe. You’re in love.”

My heart stutters, and I shake my head. “I don’t?—”

She smirks. “Deny it all you want, but I bet if he walked in here right now, you’d throw yourself at him.”

I roll my eyes, but my stomach does a nervous flip. Because she’s not wrong.

Before I can say anything, the café door swings open, and a group of women walks in, laughing. I recognize a few of them—friends of Lilou’s, women from town.

Lilou’s eyes light up. “Perfect timing. Let’s go out tonight.”

I blink. “What?”

“A girls’ night,” she says, grinning. “Drinks, dancing, fun. Youneeda distraction.”

I hesitate. “I don’t know…”

“Come on, Lym! It’ll be fun.”

I sigh, but I know I’m going to give in. I need to clear my head, and maybe a night out is exactly what I need.

“Fine,” I mutter.

Lilou squeals. “Yes! It’s gonna beepic.”

I hope she’s right, because right now, all I can think about is Camden.

We get ready and head out. Lilou drives us, and she gets the first round while I find us a table.

After that, things start to get a little fuzzy.

One drink turns into two, and then three. When I stand to get us another round, I sway on my feet.

I amdefinitelydrunk.

Nottoodrunk. Justenoughdrunk.

For now, anyway.

Which is why I don’t think twice before pulling out my phone and scrolling to Camden’s name.

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