Page 199 of Where We Stay

“I have not moved in,” I scoff.

“Do you even own a toothbrush at your house anymore?”

“Like you can talk. Logan practically did a walk of shame out of your house, and you still haven’t properly explained it.” I smile over the rim of my glass. “Looks like we’re both gone for an Ashford.”

“Fuck off, B.” The amusement disappears from her face. “There’s nothing between Logan and me. He’s made that very fucking clear.”

The hurt beneath her words wipes the smile straight off my face.

“Hey.” I reach across the table and squeeze her hand. “Then it’s his loss. I’m always on your side, G.”

She releases a quiet breath and forces a smile. “Thanks, babe. I really am fine.”

I don’t believe her, but I don’t push.

She’ll tell me when she’s ready.

* * *

By the time I reach the bottom of my third whiskey sour, my stomach hurts from laughing and the room sways whenever I move too quickly.

Five drinks.

Apparently, five drinks is all it takes to destroy every ounce of dignity I possess.

The bell above the door rings, and Dean walks into The Breakwater looking broad, tall, offensively hot and entirely mine.

“DEAN!” I shout, shooting up from my chair.

Every head in the bar turns toward me.

Dean stops just inside the door while G bursts out laughing.

“Oh, thank God,” she says. “Take her.”

I narrow my eyes at her. “Did you call him?”

“I texted him after you tried to put your straw in the saltshaker.”

“That was one time.”

Dean makes his way over to us, barely hiding his amusement. “Having a good night, baby?”

“I am perfectly capable of taking myself home,” I inform him.

I step around the table, immediately sway and grab the front of his shirt to steady myself.

G laughs even harder. “Clearly.”

I ignore her and look up at Dean. “Isn’t he so pretty?”

“Jesus, G.” Dean slides an arm around my waist. “What have you done to her?”

“I can’t be held responsible for her actions,” G argues, raising both hands. “I’m merely here as moral support.”

“I came out for you,” I remind her, pointing like this is extremely important information.

“Exactly. And look how well that turned out.” G turns her attention to Dean. “Hey, do you think you could give me a ride home too?”