Page 110 of Maximum Dare
I opened my arms in a welcoming gesture. “Ready to party.”
“I hardly recognize you.” He closed the gap between us.
I ran trembling fingers over the soft material of my gown. “It’s new.”
“I can see that.” That voice, his voice…it once did things to me.
Now, it filled me with memories that spilled over like a fountain of hurt. The spell of infatuation had faded.
He reached out and trailed his fingertips through a loose lock of my hair.
I stepped back. “I got my makeup and hair done.”
Nick towered over me. “You look incredible.”
“You’ve seen me dolled up before.”
“Not like this.”
I glanced toward the door, half expecting Morgan to burst in.
“She’s not here.” He’d read my nervousness.
“Oh?”
“Me and Morgan…we’re over.” Nick shuffled to get comfortable on his good leg.
“I’m sorry. When…?”
“A few days ago. I found out she was still seeing her ex-boyfriend, after that fight inside the Spread Eagle. They were photographed together.”
“As good as admitting it, then?”
He nodded.
“I don’t know what to say.” I reached out and patted his arm to reassure him. Obviously, I’d not liked her. But seeing him sad was somehow worse.
“You did try to warn me, Daisy.”
“I had no right to interfere—”
“Look, the way I’ve been treating you lately, you didn’t deserve any of it. I mean, here you are, supporting me even now. After everything we’ve been through.”
“Um…well…” I shot a glance toward the door. “Hi, Max.”
Nick’s eyes flashed with disappointment and then he brightened. “Hey, bro. Glad you’re here.”
Max walked in with a cocktail in each hand. “Hey.” He flashed a glance my way. “How does a martini sound?”
“I’d love one.” I took it from him. “Nick just shared his news.”
Max gave a nod. “About Morgan? Sorry it didn’t work out, buddy.”
The alcohol burned my throat as I took a gulp.
Nick chuckled. “Slow down, we don’t want you in the pool again.”
“I’m trying to forget that,” I said.
