Page 56 of Sugar & Ink
It was loud.
Chaotic. And somehow I was having fun.
That’s when I saw her. She walked toward us like she owned the place in short shorts, a white tank top with no bra, and the kind of confidence I had spent my whole life pretending not to envy.
She was gorgeous, and she knew it.
For a second, I wished I looked like her. Not because I wanted to be her, but because I wanted to walk through life with that kind of certainty.
She reached Rome and put her hand on his arm like I wasn’t standing there.
Jealousy punched me in the stomach so fast it stole my breath.
Excuse me? I was literally holding his hand.
The woman smiled up at him. “Been awhile.”
Rome barely reacted, just gave her a chin nod. “Brandi.”
Her smile faltered. “It’s been forever since I’ve seen you outside the tattoo shop.”
“Been busy.” The words were flat.
Brandi leaned closer. “Maybe you should get back to warming my bed.”
I choked on absolutely nothing.
Skid barked out a laugh, then shook his head. “Get a fucking clue, Brandi.” He nodded toward me. “He’s here with someone.”
Brandi finally looked at me. Really looked at me, and her lip curled. “Her?”
The word hit harder than it should have.
Rome didn’t hesitate. He pulled me into his side and his arm wrapped around my waist. “Yeah.” His voice was calm. “Josie has been keeping me busy.” His fingers squeezed my hip. “I don’t have time for anyone else.”
My brain stopped.
Brandi scoffed. “Yeah, sure.” But there was something ugly in her eyes now.
She rolled those eyes at me, then sauntered off. I watched her go and didn’t miss the glare she threw over her shoulder.
Fantastic.
Skid sighed. “That chick’s off her rocker.”
Rome grunted. “Always has been.”
“She’ll find some other bed to crawl into.”
Skid slapped Rome on the shoulder. “I’m gonna grab another beer.” He winked at me. “Good luck with this one.” Then disappeared.
I waited for Rome to step away, but he didn’t. His arm stayed around me like it belonged there.
“You okay?” he asked.
I nodded. I didn’t even believe that, though. Brandi was gorgeous and confident. The exact opposite of me.
Rome tilted his head. “Josie.”
