Untouched. Samantha Hunter

back in her chair.

      “Okay. But ask the bartender for your drink to be virgin this time—you don’t need two of these. Trust me. Just get me a Diet Coke. I’m driving, so no more alcohol for me. In fact, order some wings while you’re there.”

      Risa’s grin was irrepressible. “Virgin. Ha. And wings. Okay.”

      Risa casually inserted herself in an open space at the bar where Ben sat. When the bartender took her order, she decided against Kristy’s advice and just handed the guy her almost empty glass.

      “Two more of those. And some wings, please.”

      “Hot buffalo, Mexican-lime or honey-garlic?”

      “What? Wings. We want some wings, please.” She’d read in a book that service people were often treated rudely, and she made a point to keep her voice polite, but maybe some of that rudeness came from people having to repeat themselves, she figured. The bartender waited, pen in hand.

      “I think he wants to know what kind,” Ben Richter interrupted, amused. Risa turned, smiling at him.

      “Oh. I never ordered wings before. The Mexican-lines—lime—ones, please.”

      Ben stared at her for a long moment. “Don’t I know you?”

      “No. Not really. I mean, I live downstairs from you.”

      Realization dawned on his face. “Yes! Of course. I didn’t recognize you…you look different.”

      “It’s the dress.” She took a little sip of her drink as he looked up and down once, appreciatively.

      “A very nice dress, indeed. Are you here alone?”

      “Oh, no. My friend Kristy is out with me. She’s helping me get a life.”

      Ben’s brow furrowed before he laughed and looked to where she’d indicated Kristy, smiling in recognition, sitting at the table.

      “I work with her.”

      “Really? You should come join us. Kristy’s great,” she added, feeling like the best new friend in the world. “I’m going back to our table, but come by and say hello.”

      “Will do, beautiful.”

      Risa smiled, and took a step, stopping to blink and catch her balance. Ben took her elbow.