Page 89 of The Dance

While Blake stepped out of the room, I leaned against the bar top and waited. It didn’t take him long to return. However, Molly wasn’t with him.

“She’s passed out. I tried waking her, but she didn’t budge. Do you want me to carry her to your car?”

“I … Sure, if you don’t mind.”

“Or.” He took a step closer. “How about a congratulatory drink on me?”

I snorted. “You want me to have a drink before I drive my drunk friend home?”

“One drink. I promise.”

Since Molly was sleeping, and I was grateful Blake had texted me about her, I took him up on the offer. “Just one, and then I need to head home. I have practice in the morning.”

“Great. Whatcha poison?”

“I don’t know, but nothing too strong. I have to drive,” I reminded him.

“I know, Toot—Stace.” He cleared his throat. “Beer?”

“A beer would be perfect.”

Blake grabbed a pint glass and filled it with the amber beer they had on tap. He garnished it with an orange wedge before placing it in front of me on a bar napkin. “So, Molly said you’ll be on tour for months.”

“Six,” I confirmed.

His eyes widened as he leaned against the wood top. “Six? Wow, that’s a long time.”

“Yeah, but I’m excited.” I took a sip of the beer.

“When do you leave?”

“In a few weeks.”

“Wow, and you were just going to leave without a goodbye?” He clutched his chest as though the thought hurt his heart.

“I didn’t think you’d care.”

“Why wouldn’t I?” he asked. “This is a big deal for you, and I’m stoked you’re finally living your dream.”

“Thank you.”

“I would like to see you dance up on stage, though. Do you have a Texas concert?”

“Our first show is here in Houston.”

“Oh yeah?” I nodded. “Text me the date so I can get tickets.”

“I actually have six for friends and family.”

“Am I a friend or family?” he teased.

“Do you think I’m offering?”

“Are you going to hurt my heart twice in less than two minutes by telling me you aren’t offering me a ticket?”

“No.” I smiled and then took a sip of the beer before reaching into my purse. I pulled out two tickets. “I have these two tickets. Maybe you’d want to come with a friend?”

He took the tickets from me. “It was fate we reconnected again, then.”