A surge of excitement energized Layla as she drove toward the bar. She was early, and knew Phin wouldn’t get there for a while yet, so she’d practice without him. Maybe have a celebratory beer because she had landed a job. It was still a bookstore, but at least this one was a regular place, so she wouldn’t have to look at textbooks all day.
She parked in front of the bar and saw Phin’s truck a few spaces in front of hers. She couldn’t deny the tingle that skittered up her spine at the thought of his being there, waiting for her. Sharing a beer with him to celebrate would be that much sweeter. Layla jumped from her car and rushed into the bar to find Phin. She knew he’d be by the tables; it was the only place he’d be.
When she got to the back of the bar, she pulled up short. Phin was ther
