“High school is not a time in my life I’m interested in revisiting,” Mark said, lowering his drink. “I’m planning to help you home and crash on your couch if that’s all right with you.”
“Yes, but—”
Mark’s hand covered hers. “I’m not interested in starting something.”
With Molly? Or with anyone?
Mark withdrew his hand, turning his attention
back to the dance floor. “Though I have to admit, I was surprised at how much she has changed.”
Amy followed Molly’s movements on the dance floor. “Implants. I’m surprised you didn’t notice last time you visited. She’s had them for a few years. Drew a lot of attention when she first got them.”
“Bet her daddy loved that,” Mark said, shaking his head.
“She took away his guns soon after.” Amy shifted in her chair, flexing her foot.
“How’s the ankle?” he asked.
“I’m fine, Mark.”
He chuckled. “I know. Are you sure you wouldn’t rather be dancing?”
“Is that an invitation?” She looked out at the crowded floor, scanning the familiar faces for Gabe and her crazy cousin. She’d spotted them dancing in the corner minutes ago.
“Nope. But when T.J. gets back with his beer, I’m sure he’d be willing.”
“Thanks, but—” Amy frowned, leaning forward in her chair. “I don’t see them.”
“Who?”
“Eloise and Gabe. They’re not on the dance floor anymore. They’ve been glued to each other all night.”
“Your cousin is a big girl. She can take care of herself.”
Amy shook her head. “I don’t know. Gabe might be too much, even for her.”
* * *
MARK SIGHED AS he scanned the bar. He’d rather sit here teasing Amy—perhaps get to the bottom of why she’d looked as if she wanted to tear Molly McAdams apart—than start a search party for Eloise and Gabe.
Still, Amy had a point. All the Benton brothers served. But Gabe, like Darren, had joined the SEALs. He’d never been on the same team as his brother, but Gabe possessed the same draw. Hero. Larger than life. The fact that he was a war dog handler tended to make women fall at his feet. And Mark knew Gabe was usually more than willing to pick them up—for a night or two.
What if Eloise, the country vet and unabashed animal lover, hadn’t thought this through?
Mark set his beer down on the table. “Want to find them?”
“No.” Amy looked down at her foot, resting on a chair. “My ankle. I can’t magically heal it.”
“I could give you a piggyback ride.” He’d had one thought when Molly had pressed up against him—escape. But the idea of Amy’s limbs wrapped around him pushed him in the opposite direction.
“Hard to execute a covert search and rescue that way,” she said drily.
“I doubt Eloise is in danger,” he said. “Gabe’s a good guy.”
“You’re right. Of course they’re fine.” She pulled out her cell as T.J. rejoined the table. “But I should go outside and check on the puppies. No service in here.”
“Mom’s got them,” T.J. said, resting a hand on her shoulder. “Relax, Ames.”