Page 89 of The Dance
While Blake stepped out of the room, I leaned against the bar top and waited. It didn’t take him long to return. However, Molly wasn’t with him.
“She’s passed out. I tried waking her, but she didn’t budge. Do you want me to carry her to your car?”
“I … Sure, if you don’t mind.”
“Or.” He took a step closer. “How about a congratulatory drink on me?”
I snorted. “You want me to have a drink before I drive my drunk friend home?”
“One drink. I promise.”
Since Molly was sleeping, and I was grateful Blake had texted me about her, I took him up on the offer. “Just one, and then I need to head home. I have practice in the morning.”
“Great. Whatcha poison?”
“I don’t know, but nothing too strong. I have to drive,” I reminded him.
“I know, Toot—Stace.” He cleared his throat. “Beer?”
“A beer would be perfect.”
Blake grabbed a pint glass and filled it with the amber beer they had on tap. He garnished it with an orange wedge before placing it in front of me on a bar napkin. “So, Molly said you’ll be on tour for months.”
“Six,” I confirmed.
His eyes widened as he leaned against the wood top. “Six? Wow, that’s a long time.”
“Yeah, but I’m excited.” I took a sip of the beer.
“When do you leave?”
“In a few weeks.”
“Wow, and you were just going to leave without a goodbye?” He clutched his chest as though the thought hurt his heart.
“I didn’t think you’d care.”
“Why wouldn’t I?” he asked. “This is a big deal for you, and I’m stoked you’re finally living your dream.”
“Thank you.”
“I would like to see you dance up on stage, though. Do you have a Texas concert?”
“Our first show is here in Houston.”
“Oh yeah?” I nodded. “Text me the date so I can get tickets.”
“I actually have six for friends and family.”
“Am I a friend or family?” he teased.
“Do you think I’m offering?”
“Are you going to hurt my heart twice in less than two minutes by telling me you aren’t offering me a ticket?”
“No.” I smiled and then took a sip of the beer before reaching into my purse. I pulled out two tickets. “I have these two tickets. Maybe you’d want to come with a friend?”
He took the tickets from me. “It was fate we reconnected again, then.”
