Page 46 of Phoenix

He doesn’t respond right away, like he’s trying to think of a retort, but he doesn’t get the chance.

A voice breaks over the PA system, signaling last call.

“Last call?” I pull my phone out of my clutch to check the time. “Holy hell. It’s 3:00 a.m. already.”

“Look at us party animals with our water, cheesecake, and burlesque.” He stands, taking my hands and pulling me to my feet.

We stand close together, his hands naturally at my waist. “I like this kind of party.”

“So do I.” He pushes my hair behind my ear and my lips part in a sigh. He leans in closer, and I feel it. He’s going to kiss me.

“Case...” I whisper. My nerves take over. The idea of finally having the kiss I’ve thought about so often the past few months is too much, and I just blurt it out. “You should request our Lyft.”

He freezes just a couple inches from my face, then licks his lips and pulls away. “Yeah, I should.”

Damn it, Nora.

Solid job.

You’re cock-blocking yourself.

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