Firestorm - Ellie Masters Page 0,42
there was no way you were spending the night in jail, but there’s a condition.”
“Oh lord. Thank you. I’ll pay you back. Just as soon as Prescott gets here, I’ll have him wire the funds. How much do I owe you?”
More money than I can afford.
“Let’s figure that out tomorrow. As for tonight—”
She cuts me off, placing her finger over my lips. “Right now, I need a stiff drink, a shower, and bed. Is there any place in this town where a girl can drown her sorrows?”
“I’ll take you to my favorite place. It’s really the only bar in town that’s any good.”
“Thanks, and I’m buying.” She lifts her forefinger to emphasize her point.
“Right.” No way in hell is that happening. I’m acutely aware of our previous conversation about her brand of feminism. I plan on living up to all her expectations and more.
Which is why, after opening the door for her, I place my hand in the small of her back and gently escort her into the bar. It’s Friday night and the place is hopping. People are getting off for the day and are ready for the weekend.
Evelyn’s enthusiasm about getting a drink wanes a bit. She’s quiet and unsure as all eyes turn toward us.
These are all people I know. I grew up with half of them, which includes Grayson and Grady who hog the far corner of the bar. It’s the best place to catch the bartender’s eye and score some drinks.
Grady notices us and waves me over. “Hey, Ace!” He turns to the bartender and lifts three fingers. “Another round.” His astute gaze zeroes in on Evelyn. “What’s she drinking?”
I bend down to ask and barely hear Evelyn’s response.
“Gin and tonic.” I cup a hand over my mouth and raise my voice to be heard over the hopping crowd.
Things are in full swing. Nearly every table is occupied. Music blares over the crowd, pumping up the energy, and making us all raise our voices to be heard. It’s loud as people shake off the work week and unwind as they get ready for the weekend.
I wish I could unwind. My work is only beginning.
The bartender plops four drinks down on the counter. Grayson grabs a beer. Grady hands me mine and gives the Gin and tonic to Evelyn.
“You must be Evelyn.” The smile on his face comes easily and I let out my breath.
I’m a little nervous hanging with them considering Grant arrested Evelyn a few short hours earlier. Until I know where they stand on her innocence, or guilt, I won’t be able to relax.
Evelyn dips her head and takes the drink. She’s quiet around people and this comes as a surprise because she’s not shy or quiet around me.
“You look much better than when I saw you last.” Grayson lifts his beer for a toast. “To surviving a firestorm.”
It’s a cavalier toast which carries a lot of subtext. For the police, firefighters, and Grayson’s medivac crew, it means a whole lot more. It’s about staring down the gates of hell and refusing to let the devil win. It’s about fighting, surviving, and living to do it all again another day.
We toast and Grady climbs off his stool, offering it to Evelyn.
“Do you remember Grayson?” I ask.
Her brows pinch together.
“I doubt she remembers me at all considering you’re the one who carried her out on your back.” Grayson extends his hand. “Grayson Malone, I flew you out of that fire to the hospital. You gave us all a scare.”
Evelyn dips her head. “I don’t remember much. Um, thank you.”
Not a man who enjoys the spotlight, Grayson deflects. “I’m not the one who deserves the thanks.” He tilts the neck of his bottle toward me. “Ace carried you out. I was just the taxi driver.”
“You were more than a taxi driver,” she says. “I’m really thankful for what you did.”
“Well, I’m feeling a bit left out. I’ve heard all about Ace’s little backpack, but haven’t had the pleasure.” Grady’s hand shoots out to shake hers. “Grady Malone, nice to meet you. Ace hasn’t stopped talking about you. I was beginning to think he was making it all up, but seeing you in the flesh…” He takes a moment to check out my girl and I lean forward a little until he flashes a cheeky grin. The bastard is testing me and I fell for it. “Anyway, it’s clear why he can’t stop talking about you.”
“Um, thanks I guess.” I help her onto the stool and