Chapter Thirteen | Avalon

The stars in the sky illuminate the sidewalk as I make my way down the familiar route. I can hear the music from halfway down the street, and I remember suddenly that Friday nights are for karaoke. I contain my laughter at the out-of-tune vocals and enter the comforting bar.

Right away, I notice it’s packed. Alexander is moving quickly to get everybody their drinks. I squeeze my way through the crowd of people and lean against the usual wooden countertop.

As soon as our eyes meet, Alexander offers a knowing smile.

“You’re alone tonight,” he says, working while he talks. I bite back a smirk and shrug.

“I told you I would be.”

Alexander slides three drinks to a group of guys before coming face to face with me.

“I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t glad,” his rugged voice sounds. Cue the usual swarm of butterflies.

“Are you flirting with me, Mr. Woods?”

I’ve grown to like the way his last name rolls off my tongue.

“That depends. Is it working?” I chuckle and offer a shrug.