Body Check

The Lakeshore Lounge was one of those rare bars in the city that offered an intimate atmosphere rather than a loud, intrusive one. Plush, comfortable chairs and sleek wood-top tables were situated far enough apart that patrons could enjoy their drinks in privacy, and a pale yellow glow took the place of bright lighting. It was also one of the only establishments that still adhered to a strict dress code—blazers required.

It was a damn good thing he was Brody Croft, though. Even better that Ward Dalton, the owner of the lounge, claimed to be his number-one fan and turned a blind eye to Brody’s casual attire when he and Hayden arrived.

Dalton led them across the black marble floor to a secluded table in the corner of the room, practically hidden from view by two enormous stone pots containing leafy indoor palms. A waiter clad in black pants and a white button-down appeared soon after, taking their drink orders before unobtrusively moving away.

Brody didn’t miss the baffled look on Hayden’s gorgeous face. “Something wrong?” he asked.