Page 67 of Champagne Nights

“No need,” Ethan spoke. “Dinner is on me tonight.”

“Ethan, that’s very kind of you, but we can’t let you pay,” Ian spoke.

“What are you doing?” I whispered in a harsh tone.

“It’s only dinner, Aubrey. Now you’re free to go.”

I didn’t want to thank him, but I had no choice being the good person I was.

“Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.”

I pushed back my chair, and as I was about to get up, I felt a hand on mine.

“Let me help you,” Ethan said as he squeezed my hand.

A thousand lightning bolts raced throughout my body as I stood there, frozen for a second, just taking in the touch of his hand on mine. A touch that I hadn’t forgotten and didn’t think I ever would.

“Thank you.” I pulled my hand away.

As soon as we exited the restaurant, Nancy gave me a hug and told me not to be a stranger.

“Have a safe drive home,” I spoke as I said goodbye to her.

“Hey, Aubrey,” Ian spoke. “Is it okay with you if we stop at Nordstrom? I want to pick up a couple of things, and so does Rigby.”

“You two go ahead. I’ll catch a cab home.”

“What? You don’t want to come with us?” Ian whined.

“I have some things to do at home, and it’s been a long day. No worries. You two go and have fun.”

“I’ll drive you home,” Ethan spoke.

“No, thank you. I’ll catch a cab.”

“Don’t be ridiculous, Aubrey. Why pay for a cab ride when I can give you a free one?”

Ugh. I was going to kill Ian for putting me in this situation.

“Please. It’s just a ride home,” he spoke. “And I promise I won’t speak to you.”

“Fine,” I huffed.

“My arm?” Ethan spoke.

“What about it?”

“Are you going to take it?”

“No.”

“Oh, for God’s sake, Aubrey.” He grabbed my hand, wrapped it around his arm, and led me to the limo.

Upon opening the door, I slid into the backseat.

“Hello, Aubrey. It’s good to see you again.”

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