“I’m sorry you’re going through a hard time, but this should help.” Finlay handed her the plate. “It’s lava cake. Ricardo made it. Take a bite while it’s still warm. It’s guaranteed to put a smile on your face.”

Tracey ate a bite, and the rich chocolate melted in her mouth. “Oh, Ricardo, this is heavenly. You’re going to make an amazing chef.”

“Thanks. Fin’s a good teacher.”

“Can I get a dozen of those to go so I can drown in them tonight?” Tracey took another bite, then set the plate down. “I have to get back out there. Bones and Damon just got here.”

Finlay lowered her voice. “Go. Dr. Rhys could put a smile on anyone’s face.”

Tracey headed out of the kitchen. She stopped by a table to check on customers on her way to Damon’s table and noticed Bones talking to a group of guys at another table. She felt the heat of Damon’s appreciative gaze as she approached. “Hi. Sorry I took so long.”

“Not a problem.” Damon’s expression turned serious as he took in the yellowing bruises on her cheek. “I heard what happened the other night. I’m so sorry. How are you feeling?”

“I’m okay. The soreness is easing up. Thanks for asking.”

“I hear you fought a good fight.”

“Not quite good enough,” she said softly.

“But you’re okay, and that’s what really matters.” Damon leaned closer, his voice low and sexy. “You know, I’ve been thinking about you since the wedding. How’d you like to go to dinner with me? We could check out Nova Lounge in Pleasant Hill on your next night off, share a nice dinner, get to know each other better.” Nova Lounge was the most expensive restaurant around. It was co-owned by Jared Stone and business mogul Seth Braden.

Her nerves pinged, and her thoughts raced back to Diesel, bringing renewed hurt. She was not going to pine for a man who was no good for her when this gorgeous gentleman was asking her out on a proper date. “I’d like that.”

“Great.” His face lit up like he’d won the lottery. “When’s your next night off?”

The last time someone had been that thrilled about going out with her, she’d been a teenager. She’d forgotten how good it felt to be wanted. “Thursday.”

“Fantastic.” He took out his phone, and she gave him her number and her address as Bones returned to the table.

Damon made a big deal out of Tracey going out with him, and Bones seemed happy for both of them, although he gave Tracey curious looks that she couldn’t read. After taking their orders, she made a beeline for Izzy at the bar.

“Why do you look like the cat that swallowed a canary?” Izzy teased.

Tracey leaned closer, whispering, “Damon Rhys asked me out!”