Page 98 of The Savior

CHAPTER THIRTY-SEVEN

The bells that hung on the bagel shop’s doors jangled, but even if they hadn’t announced when Chance walked in, Liam would’ve known, anyway. Chance had a way about walking into a room full of women that made a hush fall.

Liam tore a chunk off his sliced bagel and dipped it into his peanut butter packet as Chelsea caught sight of his buddy walking in.

“That’s him?”

Again, Liam didn’t turn to look. “Yup.”

“How do you know—”

“Because that book club over there?” He tilted his head back. “Went from a book-talking, boss-busting, homework-bemoaning storm to silent mode.”

Her face scrunched, ready to defend the now-quiet group.

“Five bucks says,” he continued, “there’s a brave one who will try to snap a picture with her phone.”

Chelsea slapped her mouth shut.

“You think we don’t know?” He winked and tore another piece of bagel and dug it into the peanut butter.

“You can’t honestly think that random women take pictures of you guys on the down low.”

He laughed. “You should see what happens if there’s a dog or kid around.”

Chance walked to the counter and placed his order, and Chelsea paused as though imagining the sight then rolled her eyes. “Don’t let it go to your head.”

He feigned innocence. “Of course not.”

“Why don’t you use a knife and spread the peanut butter like a normal person?”

“Do you know how cute you are when you don’t have a way to win a conversation?” He dunked the bagel in the peanut butter again.

“No one is taking pictures of either of you.”

“If you put a book in his hands, he could go viral.” Liam popped the smeared bagel piece into his mouth. “I always wonder why they take pictures instead of walking up and saying hey.”

“Because as cute as you two might be, it’s a gamble if you’re worth the trouble.”

“Hey, now.”

She shook her head. “The book club ladies always know what they’re doing.”

He arched an eyebrow. “And that is?”

“Staying away from trouble.”

He laughed, shaking his head as Chance stepped up to their table.

“Morning.” His lazy half grin curled for Chelsea, and he stuck his hand out to introduce himself.

Pleasantries said, Chance turned for his order when it was called.

Chelsea rolled her eyes. “Fine. He’d go viral—with a book, a puppy, or a kid.”

Liam chuckled. “At least you agree sneaky pictures exist.”

She didn’t answer as Chance joined them again with his order and eased into his chair.

---