Page 92 of Sex, Lies, and Margarita Mixes

“What should we call this one?” he asks, handing me a fried shrimp and andouille taco.

I take a bite. “Mmm. Call it the ‘The Perfect Mistake.’”

He laughs. “Babe, you’re crazy.”

“You love it.” I retort, scarfing down the rest of the taco.

“Damn right I do.” He mutters before he kisses me, tasting lime and spice and everything us.

I’m no longer scared… I’m just ready… for whatever comes next.

CHAPTER 21

THE FIREWORKS

ROXY

* * *

The fireworks start before the fireworks start.

It’s the morning of the grand opening. Chase’s food truck. His dream. The lot’s decorated with string lights, chalkboard signs, and red picnic tables. There’s a playlist blaring from a Bluetooth speaker. Other vendors are arriving. My phone is buzzing with last-minute deliveries and texts and reminders from Melody. I’m working offsite today.

Chase is pacing, “I don’t think I’m ready.” He’s about to wear a hole through the floor.

Tucking my clipboard under my arm, I slide in front of him. “Babe… shut your sexy mouth. You’re more than ready.”

“What if no one shows up?” He questions with his forehead furrowed.

I grin. “Baby, have you not looked outside? You’ve already got a line.”

He spins, grinning as he sees the cluster of people hovering on the sidewalk, all craning their heads to peek at the chalkboard menu.

He exhales shakily. “Holy shit, Rox. There are customers out there.”

I laugh aloud, “Yup, there are. And they’re going to love your food just as much as I do.” I take his hands in mine. “You’ve got this, babe.”

Leaning down, he kisses me. Our lips cling before he pulls back. “You’re staying, right?”

I snicker. “Are you trying to get rid of me?”

By noon, the line is wrapped clean around the block.

I text Mari Lynn and Melody.

Roxy

I’m out of pocket for a bit!

Helping Chase at the Grand Opening.

Y’all handle it.

I’ll check in later.

My phone lights up.

Mari Lynn

---