Page 57 of Capturing Love

“I need another wine,” I professed, as the blonde ran her hand over Grayson’s bicep.

“I’ll get you one,” Pete said brightly, sliding out of the booth before I could protest.

Once he was gone, Amy launched into the empty space beside me, but I barely noticed. She nudged my side to get my attention. “Somebody’s jealous.” She giggled and broke my trance.

My mouth dropped open. “I’m not jealous, I’m just…just…argh, fuck.” I threw my head back and stared at the rafters above.

“It’s okay, Jos,” she said, sliding her arm around my shoulders. My head rested beside hers. “He’s been watching Pete with the exact same expression.”

I grimaced. “Did he see his hand…”

Amy laughed. “Who didn’t?”

“It’s not funny, Ames. We’ll lose our jobs if they suspect anything.”

“I’d be more worried about Pete getting a broken nose, than losing your jobs.”

I groaned. I was getting way too tipsy to process anything and desperately needed food in my stomach. “I need to go home before I do something stupid.” I grabbed my bag and shuffled out. “Can you say goodbye to everyone for me?”

She rolled her eyes and laughed. I was known for my disappearing acts, but the truth was, I hated goodbyes. Without a peep in Grayson’s direction, I snuck out of the bar, pulled on my cardigan and began my journey home.

“Need a ride?” a familiar voice called from a slowing car as I walked briskly down the sidewalk. Lenny’s Pizzeria was closing in twenty minutes.

“No, I’m fine,” I replied, briefly glancing at Grayson in the back window of his chauffeur driven car.

“Your place is about ten blocks away. It’s safer to ride with me.”

I snorted. “Doubt that.”

“Come on, Josie.” He sighed. “Get in the car.”

I stopped and turned to him, raising my brow. “Is that an order?”

“Josie…”

“I’m fine, Gray.” I continued to walk as his car followed. “I just want to get some food, go home and forget, okay? Just leave me alone.”

“Very well,” he said and his window slid shut. The car rolled away and sped off down the street and around the corner. Well, that was easier than I thought.

Just shy of twenty minutes later, I spotted Lenny’s pizzeria and to my delight, the lights were still on. I jogged across the road and walked into the restaurant that always smelt heavenly.

“Josie girl!” Lenny hollered, strolling out of the kitchen with a pizza box in hand.

“Hey, Len,” I replied with a smile, glancing around the restaurant to see who the order was for. “Sorry I’m a bit later than usual. Is the kitchen closed yet?”

Lenny frowned. “Did you want something else?”

I shook my head. “No, just my usual.”

“Oh.” He chuckled. “Well, here you go.” He handed over the large pizza and garlic bread.

I scrunched my nose. “How did you know I was coming?”

Lenny’s smile grew larger. “Your friend. The handsome man with the fancy watch told me you were on your way.”

“Oh.” It was all I could say as my cheeks heated.

Lenny held my face in his weathered hands. “You should give him a chance.”