“I’m glad you enjoyed it so much,” I say honestly. “How about you, Sniffer? Any hot prospects?” I urge.

“Not just, yet.” He winks. “But the night is young.” I laugh at his cheeky answer.

Masen finally loosens up enough to talk. Red comes back and takes Sam’s and Sniffer’s drink orders, dropping off a few more menus. “Any others joining you, Alpha?”

“Michael and Nicole should be here soon,” he answers with a smile. I don’t know if it’s the drinks he’s nursing or what, but he’s much more relaxed. Laughing and joking with the guys. Much more like the lunch we shared at school.

Nicole and Michael finally make it about a half hour later. Her cheeks are flushed, and Michael seems more relaxed than I’ve ever seen. Sniffer and Sam stand, letting her scooch in next to me. She hugs me when she’s situated. I’m a little surprised, but I hug her back. “You look lovely, Nicole,” I say truthfully. Her long dark hair is pen straight and glossy. She looks sexy but not overdone in a maxi dress.

“Thank you, Doll. Michael likes it, too. That’s why we’re late,” she huffs. I laugh at her candor, she joins me. When I realize how quiet it is, I look around. Everyone at the tables watches us with varying degrees of smiles. Masen’s and Michael’s being the biggest.

We all order dinner. Our booth was too crowded to eat at, so we moved three tables together. The table gets louder and louder as the night progresses. I like the white wine, so Masen orders me another. Sid eventually joins us, and Red sits as often as she can.

Around ten, the music gets louder, and people start dancing. I’m having such a good time. I hadn’t noticed how packed the bar is until I need to use the restroom. I lean over to Masen who is in an animated conversation with Sniffer and Michael. “Masen.” I rub his thigh to get his attention.

He stops mid-sentence and asks, “Yeah, baby?” Blushing because everyone at the table turned to look over when he answers me.

I clear my throat. “Where’s the restroom?”

Nicole, who’s had quite a few drinks, giggles and stands on shaky legs. “I’ll take you,” she slurs. I’m not even sure she can find it at this point.

Masen stands before I can answer and tucks my hand into his elbow. “I got her, Nick. Thanks though,” he says kindly. To Michael who’s pulled her onto his lap, he says, “You’ve got your hands full tonight, Buddy.” He just looks down at his Mate curled up in his arms and smiles.

Masen leads me to the restroom and tries to walk in. “What are you doing? That’s the ladies’ room.” His face looks torn. He wants to follow me in the bathroom? “Uh uh, I can go pee all by myself, Masen,” I snap.

“Fine, fine. I’ll wait right here,” he concedes on a huff. He leans against the wall as close as the door will allow. I tut and close the door behind me. He’s a bit ridiculous but cute. What the hell does he think is gonna happen in a bathroom?