Sloane nodded. “Showing them that you value their opinions. That you’re willing to make a little bit of a fool of yourself just to include them. Being a grouch in glitter versus a guppy behind the bar who’s just waiting for his shift to end, like Thomas.”

Sloane searched his face. He was worried. He was embarrassed. He was vulnerable. And he was looking to her for comfort. So she decided to dive deeper and finally tell him her theory on Felicity Fairchild breaking his heart.

She smiled and let him go. “You told me that the biggest problem between you and Felicity was how much she disliked and misunderstood your dedication to this bar. That you think she believed you were passionless and going nowhere because you refused to leave Cassidy’s. But, well, I think she knew you weren’t some lazy, ambitionless guy. I think she realized how much passion you had for this place, and it ate away at her because she didn’t feel the same about anything in her life.”

Sloane felt her smile soften. For the briefest of moments, she heard her mother in her words.

“I think,” she continued, “sometimes when people love something so much and without an ounce of hesitation, it can make other people who don’t have that certainty jealous. And jealousy is such an ugly emotion to get rid of, especially if you don’t realize that’s what you’re feeling.”

This time, Sloane placed her hand on his chest. Brady’s face was impassive, but she continued. “I know you love this place and aren’t here just to make a buck. It’s family, and you fight for family. But sometimes, the best way to connect with people is to show them you’re a hot mess just like them. Trust me, I should know. My hot mess went viral.”

Sloane finished her speech, and then Brady let her know that he’d heard her. He tilted his head down and pressed his lips against hers. She’d created a moment, and he was acknowledging it. He ran his tongue over her bottom lip and sighed when she mirrored the act, deepening the kiss.

It didn’t last long. Sloane took a step back after a moment and then motioned to the door.

Brady looked like he wanted to say something but thought better of it. Then, slowly, the tension in his shoulders noticeably lessened.

He grinned. “I guess it’s time to go be a hot mess.”

…

Who knew Cassidy’s regulars had such strong opinions about his nipples?

He hadn’t.

But they did.

And they voiced them all during the five outfits Brady showcased down their makeshift runway.