“Miles, we’re going to a new bar, this one is tired. Let’s go!” I swear, I’ve never been so happy to see someone I don’t know. She grabs his hand and laces their fingers and I’m wondering if it’s a show for me or if maybe they really are a thing which makes me wonder why he’s over here flirting with me.

He lets go of her hand and I feel the second-hand embarrassment for her as he leans down. “It was great to see you, Gab. Hope to see you soon,” he says in my ear before he kisses my cheek and then he’s gone leaving me with James who’s like a volcano about to erupt.

“Baby—” I start before I’m backed against a wall and he’s staring down at me. My eyes widen out of worry as I try to peer around him to make sure that Miles is gone.

“He kissed you.” His voice is low and gravelly and I can feel the heat and intensity of his words between my legs.

“On the cheek.”

“I don’t give a fuck; I want to break his face for thinking he could even touch you. I thought you didn’t know him like that?” My lips tick downwards thinking that James could possibly think I’m lying to him about my friendship with Miles.

“I don’t. I’ve never lied to you about anything. I…I think he’s just drunk and he thought he was being polite. Dad’s friends give me a kiss on the cheek when they see me. A kiss on the cheek is harmless, but I promise, he’s never been affectionate with me.” I can tell he’s gritting his teeth so I reach up and rub his face. “Relax. That’s nothing. You’re acting like he licked my whole face.”

“How would you feel if the situation was reversed, Gab?” His face is close to mine and I can see the anger in his blue eyes.

“Like shit, but you’re more mature than I am,” I say, somewhat joking. “Can you see this for what it is, please? A kiss on the cheek is like the least sexy thing on the planet, at least for me.” I bite my lip for emphasis. “Unless of course, it’s from you.”

He cocks his head to the side and I see the anger starting to leave him slowly. “Come dance with me.”