Alana?
As realization dawned, Lynn couldn’t muster up any more anger. Rather, a hysterical laugh bubbled in her throat before spilling out as the sheer absurdity of the situation sank in. She’d thought he was cheating on her with two women, and it turned out to be three? The man was ambitious, she had to give him that.
“Actually, I was referring to Sylvia,” Lynn answered, “but it’s good to know you’re also seeing Alana. Maybe the two of them and Dana could form a little club.”
Another snort from Suz.
Phil wasn’t nearly as amused. “We need to meet in person to discuss this, Lynn. Because the second you look into my eyes and see the truth reflected back, you’ll know whatever lies you’ve been hearing are simply that—lies. I’m with you, sugarplum. I love you.” No mistaking the note of desperation that entered his voice. “I’ve got something extra special all lined up. This Saturday—a completely out-of-this-world experience just for you.”
“It’s no use, Phil. I’ve had enough.”
“I’m serious, sweetie. Please, don’t be hasty or irrational, okay? If you don’t want to see me tonight, or even tomorrow, at least come out with me on Saturday. Once you see what I planned, you’ll know how I feel about you. You’ll know you’re the only one for me.”
“Sorry, I’m not free this Saturday. Or the Saturday after that, or the one after that.” A wave of sadness washed over her as it sunk in she’d wasted five months on this man. “Actually, when it comes to you, my calendar is completely booked up. Monday to Friday, weekends, even leap day—you’re out of luck.”
“Lynn—”
“We’re through, Phil. I’ll still see you at work, but that’s all it’s going to be. Work.”
With that, she disconnected the call.
“Holy shit,” Suz breathed, her gaze alight with wonder. “You’re a rock star, Lynn Davidson. A frickin’ rock star.”
She had to admit, she was pretty pleased with herself. A celebration was in order, and as if the universe had read her mind, the waitress chose that exact moment to return with their shots.
Suz wasted no time reaching for hers and raising it in the air. “To my BFF, for finally seeing the light!”
Rolling her eyes, she picked up her own glass and clinked it with Suz’s. They slugged back their shooters, Lynn shivering as the alcohol seared a path down her throat and warmed her insides. Her entire body felt lighter, as if a load had been lifted off her shoulders. She hadn’t realized until this very moment how unhappy she’d been in her relationship with Phil, but now that it was over, her world felt right again.
Unwittingly, her gaze traveled to the two sexy men across the bar. Their heads were bent in conversation, but the second she glanced over, Parker’s broad shoulders tensed, as if he sensed her stare.
He slowly raised his head, and a shiver of desire shimmied up her spine.
“Okay, enough is enough,” Suz declared. “You can’t keep eye-fucking the guy all night. We’re inviting them over.”
Lynn hesitated.
“Oh, don’t give me that look. You know you want to.”
Before Lynn could voice an objection, Suz thrust her arm in the air, flashed a grin across the room, and gestured for Parker and his friend to join them.
Simultaneous bursts of panic and anticipation went off in Parker’s gut as Lynn’s friend gave an enthusiastic wave in his and Dean’s direction. No way to misinterpret her intentions—she was all but holding up a big neon sign that said join us!
Sometimes it was necessary to make contact with a mark in order to gather information, but he worried that if they went over there, he wouldn’t be able to stop himself from ogling Lynn. Or flirting with her. Or, God forbid, charming his way right into her panties.
So he stayed put, his fingers tightening around his beer bottle.
Except Dean had other ideas. The dark-haired man was already hopping to his feet, shooting Parker a devilish smile. “Can’t keep the ladies waiting.”
“You go,” he said in a strained voice. “Tell them I had to take off.”
“That would just be awkward, bro. I mean, you were the one who was yoga’ing the shit out of them yesterday.”
Parker blinked. “Did you really just use yoga as a verb?”
“Are you really going to wimp out and leave? Why can’t you—oh.” Realization dawned on Dean’s face. “You’re worried you might hit on her.” When Parker didn’t answer, his buddy snorted. “You’re a big boy, Wilson. I’m sure you can keep it in your pants for one night. And if you really feel the need to flirt, then flirt with the blonde. So get off your ass and chat up some pretty girls with me.”
Before Parker could respond, his friend was gone.