Page 74 of No Regrets

Her gaze locked onto his hand holding her wrist. He could feel her pulse racing. Reluctantly, he let go and she looked at him.

“Ryan don’t try and cover for your buddy. I’m not interested in your bro code.”

“I have no idea what you’re talking about.”

She must have believed him because her face softened a little.

“You told Kelly you guys might be at Jerry’s tonight if she wanted to stop by.”

“Yes, I did. But she didn’t stop by. Dex and I were the last there. I left, and Dex said he was right behind me. She wasn’t there.” This made no sense.

“I had dinner with Kelly tonight. On the way home she decided to go to Jerry’s. From what I understand she saw Dex with his tongue down another woman’s throat.”

Oh shit. The blonde. It must have happened before Joe arrived. No one had said anything.

“Sophie, I didn’t know. Did Dex see her?”

“I have no idea. I don’t know all the details. Kelly called me in a state and here I am.”

“Ah, man. If I’d known she was going to show, I would have stayed.”

“To make sure he kept his tongue in check?” Her sarcasm was kinda cute.

“Sophie, in his defense, they’re not together anymore. That was her decision. He wasn't doing anything wrong and if he’d known she was there, or was coming, no way in hell he would have done it. And I didn’t tell him she might stop by. Kelly asked me not to.”

Sophie’s shoulders slumped. “I know. It’s just... She’s been doing so well. I hate to see her this upset and now there’s more bad news. I’m sorry. None of this is your fault.”

“You and Kelly have become good friends,” he said gently. He wanted to pull her into his arms and hug her, but he kept his distance.

“Yes, we have. She’s so strong, Ryan, you know that. But there’s only so much she can take, and I’m worried about how hard this will hit her.”

“I’m glad she has you to lean on. Matt was like a second father to her. Despite what’s happened she’d want to know.”

“You’re right. How is Dex?”

“Not good, but I’ll keep an eye on him. He has his team to get him through this. I thought Kelly would be there for him too, but after what you told me, maybe not.”

She looked at him, those big blue eyes, beautiful. He’d always thought she was pretty but how had he not noticed just how gorgeous this woman was before. Ryan, get a grip. Your best friend's father just died. Keep you thinking to your big head, not your little one.

“I’m not sure it’s a good idea for you to come in. I’ll tell her you were here, but I think it might be best for me to give her the news.”

Ryan nodded his agreement. “Yeah, you’re right. I don’t want to make her feel awkward. But if she wants to see me, please call me. I’ll come right over. The team, we’re here for her too, please tell her that.”

She smiled, making her eyes shine.

“You care a lot about Kelly and Dex. I like that. I know you and Dex are team boys, but you’re just as close with Kelly.”

His heart fluttered a little at the compliment.

“Like I said before, we’re family. I met Kelly the same day I met Dex.”

She nodded that pretty head, and he couldn’t take his eyes off her.

“OK, Ryan, I should get inside. When’s the funeral?”

“Don’t know yet. I’ll call you when I know?” Hey, any excuse to talk to her again.

“No, don’t worry about it. Considering Matthew’s Dawson reputation, I’m sure I can find out. Goodbye Ryan.” She left him standing there, open mouthed. Did she just brush him off? Hell, that was a first.