Sunrise Kisses (The Kisses 8)

“That was Dr. Verner,” I whispered. I didn't want to say the words aloud. If I didn't say them, maybe they wouldn't be true. Maybe my dad would just be sitting at home playing on his tablet and be totally fine. “He's at the house with Dad.”

Charlotte's knees banged against the table as she stood up. “Holy crap, Ava...”

“He's fine,” I assured her quickly. “But I'm going to head back home. If I stay, I'll just be a giant ball of worry that sucks the fun out of everything.”

Charlotte didn't pause. “I'll come with you.”

I smiled at her, knowing that she really was my friend. She was willing to give up a night with her crush to come hang out with her freaked out friend and her dad.

“No, please don't let me ruin your night as well,” I pleaded. “Dr. Verner says he's fine, but I'm just a worrier. Please stay.”

Charlotte frowned. I could see the conflicting desires in her eyes as she weighed her options. She wanted to do both but I could see her leaning towards me and I couldn't allow that.

“Leo, will you please make sure my friend stays and has a nice time tonight?” I asked, turning to appeal to Leo. “It's her evening off and I don't want it ruined on my account.”

Leo nodded. “I'll make sure she has a wonderful time and gets home safely. You go be with your father.”

“Thank you,” I said, picking up my things from the table. “It was really nice to meet you.”

“At least let me walk you out,” Charlotte begged. I nodded, heading toward the exit while Leo held the table for her return. Seeing our motion, Elijah put some money on the bar counter and met us at the door.

Standing outside the bar in the warm night air, I felt better. I was glad I wasn't staying, but I was disappointed to miss out on the rest of our girl's night.

“Are you sure?” Charlotte asked again. “I don't want you to be alone.”

“I won't be alone,” I promised. “I'll be with Dr. Verner and my dad. You stay.” I took her hands in mine and smiled. “I really, really appreciate the offer, but I want you to stay here. Stay with Leo.”

Charlotte bit her lip. “You're really sure?”

“Yes.” I grinned at her. “Drink too much and kiss that man. Please.”

Charlotte giggled, lightening my heart a little.

“How much do I owe you for dinner, Charlotte?” I asked, reaching for my purse. She stopped me halfway through the motion.

“Nothing. My treat.”

I hugged her. I had known her for three days and I loved her to pieces already. I hoped she had the time of her life with Leo and finally got to make something of her crush. I couldn't wait to hear all about it in the morning.

I turned to look for Elijah, and saw him standing further down the porch talking to another man. If two men could look anything more like hunting lions, I would have eaten my shoe. I was very glad that at least one of them was on my side as Elijah strode back over.

“I'll take you home, Ava,” Elijah

said. “Murdoch will watch Charlotte until I get back.”

I looked over at the other big man. He had to be Leo's bodyguard. The man looked just as competent as Elijah and possibly more deadly. Bastian wouldn't be able to complain about that.

“Okay, let's get going,” I replied. I gave Charlotte another hug. “Thank you again. I'm so sorry to ruin girl's night.”

“Not your fault,” she replied, hugging me back. “It just means we'll have to do it again. Give your dad a hug from me and keep me updated.” She held up her phone. “I'll be there in two seconds if you need me. Okay?”

“Thank you,” I said, meaning it from the very tips of my toes.

Elijah put his hand on my shoulder and guided me to the waiting Lamborghini. Charlotte waited to go back inside until the car rolled out of the lot. I sincerely hoped that she had the time of her life with Leo. It would make such a wonderful story for something like love to come out of my leaving early. I was still incredibly touched that she was willing to leave with me, though. She was a real friend.

Elijah handled the car with ease and even sped just a little. Not enough to get in trouble or pulled over, but just enough that it made the ride home that much faster. Even with that, I was still a nervous mess when he pulled up to the front of the house to drop me off.

“Take care, Ava,” he said, waiting for me to exit the car so he could go back to Charlotte.