TOBIAS WALKED INTO the Salty Hog and was surprised by how busy it was for a Sunday evening. A group of about twenty people was drinking and carrying on around two tables that were pushed together, and nearly every table in the place was occupied.

He headed over to the bar, hoping Madigan was having a good time at the baby shower. She’d texted earlier to say she’d talked to Blaine and even though she hadn’t gotten far, she wasn’t giving up.

Neither was Tobias.

One way or another, he was going to get through to her brother.

He spotted Conroy at the other end of the bar, helping a customer, and the other bartender, a brunette, was also busy with customers. He took the only empty stool at the bar, and as he grabbed a menu, a guy bumped into his back. He turned around, meeting the glassy eyes of a thirtysomething dude.

“Hey, man, watch where you’re going,” the guy said as he stumbled away.

Tobias didn’t have the patience to deal with assholes today. He shook his head and turned back around, surprised to see Conroy’s friendly face.

“Gotta love when guys get together with their frat brothers a decade after college and act like they’re still nineteen years old.” Conroy revealed his dimples. “How’re you doing, buddy?”

“A’right. You?” Tobias asked.

“Doing great. Hated to miss our ride today, but someone’s got to hold down the fort while my beautiful old lady throws a hen party.” He wiped down the bar. “What can I get you?”

“A cold beer and a burger would hit the spot, thanks.”

“You’ve got it.” Conroy went to place his order and came back with a frosty mug, which he promptly filled. “You and Mads should come riding with us sometime.”

“I’ll keep that in mind. Maybe after I’m done fixing Preacher’s car.”

Conroy put a napkin down and set the frosty mug on it. “I heard you were doing that. I’ve got an old bike in my garage that Ginger has been after me to fix up, but between this place, the grandkids, and the new baby coming, it doesn’t look possible anytime soon.”

“I’d be happy to take a look at it.”

“I was hoping you’d say that.”

“Are you excited about Tank and Leah’s baby?”

Conroy pressed his palms to the bar, eyes dancing with elation. “Excited doesn’t begin to describe how much we’re looking forward to it. We never thought we’d see the day Tank opened himself up to anyone, and Leah and the girls bring nothing but joy into our lives.”

“I’ve heard a lot about Junie and Rosie. I hope to meet them someday.”