More than this

Chapter 1-2

Ryan stood at the opposite end of the bar from Quinn’s booth. Watching in the mirror, he saw a new side of Quinn. She was relaxed. When she’d first come into the bar with a crowd of teachers, she’d hung back from the group, ordered one drink, gulped it down, and left. It was like she had to make an appearance and she did the bare minimum. Now, she’d invited other friends here.

He couldn’t believe he’d almost been busted eavesdropping on her conversation. And, of course, it had to happen right when they got to a good part. He wanted to know if she got laid for her birthday. Judging by the way she looked when she came in, she hadn’t been given a birthday o****m. He almost wanted to offer to change that, but knew she’d shoot him down.

A slight tap on his arm had him turning to look at his younger brother, who was supposed to be stocking alcohol.

“Who’s the gorgeous blonde?”

“Who?”

Michael hitched his chin up toward the mirror. “The one you’ve been staring at.”

“Oh. That’s Indy, but I was looking at her sister. Short dark hair.”

Michael looked at all three women. “She’s not your usual type.”

“I know.” The concept rubbed at him like a wool sweater.

“Hey, man.” Michael bumped his arm. “I wanted to thank you for the hours here. I really need the extra cash.”

Squeezing in an extra bartender minimized someone else’s hours, but of course he found a spot for Michael. “Are you going to tell me what you need the money for?”

“No.”

Ryan studied his brother. “Are you in some kind of trouble?”

“Not at all. Don’t worry.”

Easier said than done.

Ryan turned back and looked at the mirror. In the reflection he saw Quinn open her mouth with laughter. He wished he were close enough to hear the sound. She tucked her short sway of dark hair behind her ears, revealing her soft features. Her golden brown eyes found his in the mirror and he smiled.

Just then, perfume wafted up to his nose and Moira wrapped her arms around him, planting a kiss on his cheek.

“What’s that for?” he asked.

“That’s to say thank you for fixing my broken window. My landlord’s an ass.”

“No problem. It’s what brothers are for.”

Over the top of Moira’s head, he glanced back at Quinn. The corners of her lips turned down. He enjoyed a challenge every now and then. Quinn definitely presented a challenge.