I sat at my usual spot at the end of the bar, absently swirling the amber liquid in my glass, trying to keep my cool. The bar was slowly filling up as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows and dimming the lights to that familiar, comfortable glow.
I’d been here every damn night this week, waiting, watching, hoping she’d walk through that door. But so far, no luck.
Until now.
Laughter echoed from the backroom, followed by Tony’s gruff voice booming over the noise. “I BETTER HAVE A BAR TO COME BACK TO TOMORROW! Y’ALL DON’T CAUSE TOO MUCH TROUBLE!”
More laughter—light, teasing. Familiar.
My spine straightened, and my heart started to pound.
That wasn't just anyone talking with him, no sir, that was...
Shay.
I downed the rest of my whiskey, the burn doing not
