Page 10 of Until Ireland

I rolled my eyes at him. “Pfft. It’s not like you’re a parent and I’m asking you who your favorite kid is. What are your top three things to eat here?”

He cocked a brow. “You’re relentless.”

I laughed. It was the truth—better he learned that now instead of later.

When I didn’t say anything, he blew out a breath. “Fine. Mypersonalfavorites are the porterhouse, cooked medium rare, the parmesan risotto with roasted shrimp, and the paella.”

“Was that so hard?”

Mack threw back his head and chortled. His gray eyes sparkled with humor. He was dangerous. Cocky Mack was one thing—he exuded power and status. Happy, relaxed Mack could tear down my walls and crawl so deep into me I’d never be the same again. Although the idea should frighten the hell out of me, a small part of me enjoyed the idea of having him in my chaotic life.

“Actually, yes it was.”

“Whatever,” I mumbled under my breath.

When our server approached the table, she acknowledged Mack first before she turned her attention to me. “Welcome to Flame. My name is Melissa, and I’ll be your server tonight. What can I get you started to drink?”

“I’d love a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon, please.”

“Do me a solid, Mel, and give us a couple minutes before you bring a bottle of the 2016 Freemark Abbey.”

“You got it, Mack.” Melissa left as quietly as she approached.

“You might regret ordering a bottle.” I wiggled my brows. “I really like red wine.”

“Newsflash, Ireland. You’re with me. I own the place, and you can drink as much as you’d like.”

“In theory that’s awesome and all, but don’t forget, I’m driving and have to remain sober,” I reminded him and myself. Once this night was over, I needed to leave and maintain a professional relationship with him.

At least that was what I kept telling myself. Getting mixed up with Mack could mean disaster for me…us. Any business with Mack Redman could provide my family with much- needed funds, and most importantly, a reputable reputation in town.

He leaned back in his seat, watching me intently. “Or you can just leave your car here, and I’ll drive you home. Problem solved.”

“Except, I’m not about to leave my baby in your parking lot overnight, unattended.”

Mack shrugged then offered another solution. “It’s an easy fix. I’ll just drive you home in your car.”

It had been a struggle not to show how his words affected me. It had also been pretty obvious what stopped me from having a one-night stand in the past wouldn’t be the case with Mack. I needed to regain control of this conversation, more for me than him. I held up my hand. “Slow your roll. No one…and I mean no one, drives my car.”

It was kind of the truth. I wasn’t a fan of allowing others to drive my cars, and it was a privilege I’d only given my siblings.

“Hey, it was just a thought.” A wicked grin curled his lips. “There are always other options.”

Mack Redman was a dangerous man.

Melissa returned shortly thereafter, carrying the bottle of wine Mack ordered. She poured me a glass first, then Mack before she placed the bottle on the table. “Ready to order?”

Mack looked at me, and I gave him a nod. He got the porterhouse, and I ordered the risotto. After Melissa left, a young boy showed up, placing a basket filled with a mix of rolls, seasoned olive oil, and a small plate of green and black olives on the table.

My stomach loudly growled when the warm yeasty scent of freshly baked bread hit my nose. I should’ve eaten a roll to help soak up some of the alcohol I’d already consumed, but instead, I sipped on my drink.

“Oh, yum,” I muttered into my glass.

The wine was rich and full-bodied with hints of blueberry, blackberry, and cherry with a trace of chocolate.

Yay. Chocolate.

“You like?” Mack asked as he sipped from his glass.

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