Page 18 (2/2)

"The future" I say, turningfor the next shot

"Fuck yeah!" Lacey whoops "The future!"

CHAPTER FIVE

Night falls, and the party kicks up a notch A country rock-style band sets up by the bar, and soon the open space is packed, a hts froets into the party spirit: chatting, flirting, dancing with the steady strea about her energy, infectious and playful, that always attracts a crowd Whether she cares enough to keep any of the too: downing shots, s on the edge of the group, trying to lose hter But I only half-way relax Noon En of him anywhere, but I know he’s here somewhere, he has to be

I feel it

And who the hell was that girl I saw hih I know it’s ridiculous She was cute, but ouldn’t she be? I’ up to try it on with Emerson, and hell, maybe they are Maybe there’s been a parade of theulp down the rest ofthis time – and try not to think about it He can date whoever he wants I have Daniel It doesn’t !" Lacey announces

I look up She’s back frori away the fresh cup My head is spinning now, and the lights are starting to blur in front of ht," Lacey teases "Oh well,someone over

I turn It’s the blonde bartender fro in a stubbly beard and plaid shirt He’s balancing a plate full of funnel cake like a pro, weaving through the crowd

"I said how hungry I was, and he offered to get so Isn’t that sweet?" Lacey coos

"You’re a piece of work, Lacey Sullivan," I laugh

"Cute, huh?" Lacey whispers to ood if I crash soet some"

And it definitely won’t be me