Page 50 of Fate In Fiction

Me:

you wernt wrong rookie.

Me:

thanks for sticking upfor me

Rookie:

Of course, I always will.

Me:

please let me handl friend drama on my own k

Dots appear, then pause. With autocorrect up and functioning, it’s now becoming more difficult to actually type everything incorrectly.

Rookie:

Fine. Just don’t hang around drunk men in bars. You know how I feel about your safety.

Rookie:

You’ve mentioned wanting to become an author one day. Your editor is going to have a lot of work cut out for her if you write the way you text.

Me:

Yes. To all of it. Gtg group is here

I tuck my phone away as Emery and I step out of the car to enjoy our afternoon.

* * *

The fire crackles outside as Emmett and I sit beside each other in comfy chairs. It’s an easy way for us to show people we are happy to spend time together without having to put much effort into it. Watching the orange glow from the sun disappear behind the mountains, two teenage girls walk past and try to be sly while staring. Since the article released, saying Emmett’s off the market, he’s been on everyone’s radar. My name hasn’t been noted, nor are we photographed together, but it’s only a matter of time before locals sell my name for someone’s story. Typical territory for Emmett being famous for his last name, and being well followed on social media.

A shiver travels through me as the cool breeze makes its way through the heated outdoor lamps around us. Picking up our empty mugs, I stand.

“I’m gonna bring these inside and head up to the suite.”

“I’ll be right up.” Emmett keeps his gaze on the view.

I save the staff a trip and walk the mugs directly to the bar, where Clyde is tending to a busy crowd. A whistle draws my attention to the nearby table, and my stomach drops. The Sips & Trips Bros smile and wave me over. I give a shy wave and glance around for Emmett.

“Hey, li’l red,” one of the guys calls out. “Why aren’t you prancing around in those leggings again? You’ve got quite the perky ass for it.” Not them again.

“You’re drunk and should calm down before you get kicked out.” I stalk up to the table with my hands on my hips.

“Where’s you little friend?” another asks as they snicker amongst each other. “Are you girls staying close by?” I’m ready to dump the guy’s beer on him, but keep my composure.

“Hey, what’s happenin’ here?” Emmett makes his way over, clapping his hands together. His smile is wide, looking delicious in his university hoodie and comfy jeans. His hat’s turned backward, fitting right in with the bros’ table.

“Sup, man.” Clearly, this bro has no idea who he is talking to. “Sit down and we can have little red grab us a round of drinks.” He tilts his chin toward me. “Maybe our sexy little tour guide from yesterday will let us finish what we tried to start with her and her friend.” He chuckles, turning nausea within me.

“Oh, you guys went on a hike with her yesterday?” Emmett wants to shoot me a look. I can sense his blood beginning to boil with possibilities and rage for keeping my mouth shut. “What sort of services does that little lady offer?” His eyes stay on the group of guys as he pushes a laugh forward. One that lacks any humor.

“It’s not stated on her website, but you don’t have a body like that to show off and not expect guys wanting to tap it.” The bro looks at his friends, who all nod with encouragement. “We would have enjoyed tipping both of those little ladies in many ways.” Emmett’s jaw tightens, and his dark brown eyes narrow as they meet mine.

Crap.