Page 62 of Painting Her Fate

His eyes widen then he raises his hands in surrender and stumbles backwards off the chair, “No need to be hasty.” He chuckles.

“Get stuffed arsehole.” I say just as the tossers’ eyes widen even bigger, catching sight of something over my shoulder.

“Is this guy bothering you?” A deep voice booms, giving me a start. I know that voice, the one I have wanted to hear since we parted ways earlier. I turn and meet his stare. So delicious. This is my type of male.Why did I just think that?

“Alexander.” His name came out in a whisper. My knight, here yet again to save me. Rage poured off him in waves, his hands clenched at his sides and his eyes resemble category four hurricane winds, not quite category five- yet. I could use his touch right about now. He’s Brooding, fiercely protective, and so damn sexy; like a young Tom Hardy in a war film.He is one delectable crumpet.

“I was just telling this lovely lady how cute she looked, is all.” The Uni student slurred, grinning drunkenly at me. My brows draw together as I hold back my comment.Let me have a go at him, I’ll kick his arse to next Wednesday.

I let my gaze fall from Zanders to stare ashamedly at the floor.

Oh God, everything is tits up and it’s all my fault. I’ve ruined Emma’s birthday.

I loathe having eyes on me, and I can sense there are quite a few pair. There is a popular band up front people. Watch them, not what is going on at this table.Damn nosey pricks.

Zander’s rough tone breaks through the loud drum warm-ups, his face near the student’s ear but said loud enough I heard him.

“I saw what you were doing, and I do not likeboysmaking my customers uncomfortable. I will not tolerate here. Ever. Apologize to her, then you and your friends are coming with me.” Zander spins him so he is face to face with me. I look to Zander before turning my gaze to theboy.

The moment he understood Zander wasn’t messing around, he gave me his sappy drunken apology then was none too gently guided to the three other mates he came in with, then promptly left out the exit.

I was about to get up and go searching for Zander when he returned, coming directly to me. His tight black t-shirt he wore showed off his exquisite structure.Damn,what a remarkable sight. No, Lili, behave yourself. We are in public.That has never stopped me before now has it…

“You, okay?” His deep gray eyes met mine, the storm within still raging. Zander’s gaze flits over my form, starting at my feet and traveling all the way up to meet my stare. There is approval- and dare I say, a wild hunger that has chased away the hurricane.Emma got it right with this outfit.

I nod then tare my gaze from his. The collywobbles are in full force tonight; it happens every time I’m near him.Why the hell is that?My thoughts run haywire as my own hunger at wanting him flares to life.Seems the outfit is bringing out my mistress. He’s cautious now, tamping down his desire, concern replacing it and making me scrunch my nose at him.

“Quit looking at me like that; I’m fine.”

“If you say so.” He says on a sigh and shakes his head, “you know, you seem to make trouble wherever you go.” A small smile forms, one with a hidden meaning, “what am I going to do with you?”

I know exactly what you can do with me, let us go to your office andI’ll show you.Did that just come from me?Oh my God! Keep it together, Lili.

“I’m keeping my eye on you Miss Hayes.” He gives me his devilish grin and it has me wondering just how much of a devil he hides within.Oh, my personal Lucifer, perhaps? *Hums in approval* Yes please.Before the heat in my cheeks gave away where my thoughts lead, Emma ran to our table, gave her brother a hug, then moved the tray of wings closer to her as she sat down.

She points to her empty glass and adds a bit of sarcasm, “Man the service is so bad around here, can’t a girl get a drink? I mean, it’s my birthday after all.” Her gaze wanders the table, “oh, and more blue cheese. These wings needwaymore blue cheese.” She begins dancing in the seat when an upbeat tune rises from the stage; her eyes closing as she shakes her head to the beat. Emma is in her own little vibe and I’m loving it.

Zander and I chuckled at her outburst, “Sure thing sis, anything for the birthday girl.” He took the empty glasses from the table, “Be right back, your majesty.” He gives her a theatrical bow, “Lili, can I get you another?” He gestured to my half empty glass.

“No thank you, I’m all set.” After what just happened, I’m not in the mood to drink anymore. Once he was gone, I turn to Emma who was diving into the saucy wings, “How’s the band doing?” Ugh. Small talk. Apparently, this is the mood I’m shifting to. Lovely.Better that than running for the hills.

She swallows then snags another wing and douses it in the dressing, “They are good, other than Chris being sick of course. They agreed to play more of the older hits this time around, not only for Wyatt’s sake, but as a blast to the past.” She begins bouncing in her seat as she chews, “This is such an awesome birthday!” She cheers, holding her hands and the wing in the air. I can’t help but laugh with her, “you are such a delight.” Leave it to Emma to pop my feel-good mood right back in the direction we need it to be.

“Your brothers are lucky to have you as a sister.”

She snorts, “I may be tiny compared to all my brothers, but trust me, they found out that size isn’t everything when it comes towinning.” She lifts her arms showing off her tiny muscular bicep. There is pride as she tells me, “My parents taught them to have nothing but respect for women, but I was usually the one starting the wrestling matches.” She beams.

“I can see you being an instigator of sorts.” I flash her a grin and she’s quick to agree.

“Only when necessary.” She declares as she sets the bone in the basket.

“Sorry it took so long, looks like word got out about the band being in town.” He set the tray down and looked around, frowning. I glance around to find the place flooded with spectators. I rub my hands together and give him that look; he knows I want behind that bar. He isn’t going to ask it of me, not wanting to take me away from the fun girls’ night. I’m not feeling in the dancing mood- now working- best distraction ever.

Emma pouts, oblivious to what he just said, “I never see you much anymore.” She complains, dunking another wing, “come over for game night soon, you too Lili.”

He gives her a smile that doesn’t quite reach his eyes, “I promise I’ll do better at making time for you.” There is sincerity in his words, however his face is shadowed with guilt. Someone shouts for Zander’s assistance. “I’ve gotta help Trent at the bar, Crystal went home again.” He slung the bar rag over his shoulder and exhales, “Happy birthday sis.” Then placed a kiss to her temple, “Behave! No mash pits!”

We all laugh as Emma’s jaw falls open, “who, me?” She feigns innocence, “don’t you worry, Lili and I are going to be getting hella drunk, and dance until our feet hurt!” I didn’t want to disappoint the birthday girl, but I can sense the tension radiating off the staff members. They need help with this crowd.

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